Lexus SC (01-09) - Review

The metal folding roof means that the SC430 is just as good as a coupe in the winter. There's minimal wind or road noise thanks to excellent sound insulation while even with the roof down it still feels superbly refined with little buffeting. The sports seats are comfortable and offer decent support, but like the rest of the car they're designed for comfort rather than keen driving. All cars come very well equipped with climate control and plus leather upholstery while a wind deflector fitted between the rear headrests helps control the airflow in the cabin at higher speeds. Tyre noise is too evident, though. Well-appointed interior is easy to use and sports seats are sumptuous. Rear two seats are for shopping or children only.

It may have four seats but the rear seats are nothing more than useless with zero legroom. They do however provide extra space for luggage which is handy as the boot only holds 135-litres when the roof is down - less than a MINI hatchback. However, with the roof up this does increase to a far more useful 368 litres. The roof itself is easy to use - there are no catches to release and it's fully automatic - however it does take a laboured 25 seconds to fold up or down.

The interior of the SC is neatly laid out if not particularly stylish. It's dominated by wood and leather and certain combinations can look a little garish and naff. Luckily later cars are a little more sophisticated. The stereo and ventilation controls are neat and upmarket (strangely more so than some later Lexus models) but the deep set dials aren't that clear. The driving position is good though and there's plenty of electric adjustment in the seat and steering column, while headroom is good with the roof up.