Lexus IS C (09 on) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 16 December 2009
With the popularity of upmarket four-seat convertibles like the Audi A5 and BMW 3-Series Convertible, it's no surprise that Lexus has its own version - the IS 250C. It's based on the standard IS saloon but the majority of the exterior is unique to the convertible - including the excellent aluminium folding roof. The smooth system retracts in just 21 seconds, making it one of the fastest metal roofs on any car. Like all Lexus cars, the IS 250C is superbly built and refined, but it seems this has come at the expense of driving enjoyment and it lacks that 'fun' factor you'd expect to find in any convertible. On the plus side, all versions come incredibly generously equipped and the metal roof means it can be as secure and as comfortable as a coupe.
3 out of 5

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4.5 out of 5

Equipment

There are two version of the IS 250C - the SE-I and the SE-L - and both come very well equipped. The SE-I has six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, automatic windscreen wipers, a six CD changer, premium stereo with USB and auxiliary inputs, Bluetooth, keyless entry and start, cruise control, leather upholstery, electrically adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, electric folding and heated door mirrors, aluminium pedals and 18-inch wheels. It can also be specified with a hard drive satellite navigation system, which also includes a rear parking camera. The SE-L adds illuminated scuff plates, front seats with integrated heating and ventilation, xenon headlights with adaptive cornering function, rear park assist and sat nav. This model can be upgraded with a Mark Levinson surround stereo, pre-crash safety system (PCS) and adaptive cruise control (ACC).

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Compare Equipment

Trim

Equipment

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Standard item

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  • ABS
  • Alarm
  • Alloy wheels
  • Audio remote
  • Body coloured bumpers
  • CD Multichanger
  • Climate control
  • Cruise control
  • Driver`s airbag
  • Electric driver`s seat
  • Electric mirrors
  • Electric passenger`s seat
  • Front electric windows
  • Front fog lights
  • Heated mirrors
  • Heated seats
  • Height adjustable drivers seat
  • Isofix child seat anchor points
  • Leather seat trim
  • Parking sensors
  • PAS
  • Passenger`s airbag
  • Rear electric windows
  • Remote locking
  • Sat Nav
  • Service indicator
  • Side airbags
  • Steering wheel rake adjustment
  • Steering wheel reach adjustment
  • Telephone
  • Traction control
SE-L Limited Edition SE-I Advance
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