Although the SC 430 won’t win any automotive design awards, it still may find a place in the Lexus annals as one of the marque’s most timelessly appealing models. Virtually unchanged since its introduction in 2002, the SC continues to attract buyers to Lexus showrooms, due in part to the folding steel roof that retracts at the push of a button, transforming the SC from luxury coupe to posh two-plus-two convertible. Inside, the SC’s beautifully crafted interior highlights Lexus touchstones—buttery leather, straightforward controls, electroluminescent gauges, and lovely varnished wood panels. Just don’t plan on seating people in the backseat, which is best reserved for Louis Vuitton shopping bags. The power train, though undeniably smooth and refined, has fallen behind the competition in output, but the SC 430’s somewhat flaccid chassis doesn’t encourage seriously sporty behavior, anyway. Those in search of a more aggressive Lexus drop-top should look to the IS 350 C.
Pros: A well-rounded luxury convertible.
