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Lexus IS C interior, tech and comfort

2009 - 2012 (change model)
Comfort rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by David Ross Published: 6 June 2019 Updated: 6 June 2019

As with all Lexus models, the cabin of the IS 250C is incredibly well built with high grade materials and precise controls. It’s almost identical in appearance to the standard IS saloon which means it’s pretty dull to look at, but at least the white backlit instrument dials have an upmarket look and seats provide excellent comfort and a good driving position too.

However, the central console is button heavy and seems overcomplicated, but fortunately the touch screen audio system (and sat nav if fitted) is easy to get to grips with. Visibility is generally good, although with the roof up, there are large rear pillars which make reverse parking tricky.

With the roof up, the IS 250C is as good as standard coupe or saloon. There’s minimal wind noise – helped by a special windscreen and the smooth gear changes make it a relaxing car to cruise along in. But when the Lexus is pushed harder it loses some of that serenity, with a noisy engine at high revs and annoyingly sluggish gear shifts. Drop the roof down and it’s sophisticated – until you get to higher speeds.

Without the optional rear wind deflector fitted (a feature which makes the back seats unusable) there’s quite a lot of buffeting and conversations with your passenger can be a noisy affair. On the plus side, the climate control system has been adjusted for top-down driving and the airflow automatically adjusts accordingly.