Lexus has recently put a lot of development dollars into their IS model line. First came the IS F—the Japanese brand’s first performance sedan—and now a new hardtop convertible model dubbed the IS C is beginning to find its way into dealer showrooms. This is not the only car in Lexus’ lineup to feature a retractable hardtop (the SC 430 still lingers on after eight years of production), but it is undoubtedly the most engaging. The IS 350C convertible takes its power train from the standard IS sedan models, and the 3.5-liter V-6 engine option produces 306 hp at 6,400 rpm. But anyone looking for better performance can check the F-Sport boxes on the order form and find everything from a carbon-fiber engine cover to a performance exhaust system inspired by the sport-tuned IS F’s.
Pros: A comfortable alternative to its hardtop convertible contemporaries.
Cons: Might cannibalize sales of the long-in-tooth SC430.
