By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com / Photos Lexus US Media
For 2015 the Lexus IS 350C seamlessly blend the expressive stylishness of a hardtop convertible with the quietness and comfort of a coupe, the IS convertible continues to please driving enthusiasts with an exceptional ride and a sophisticated interior.
Interior
The interior maintains the luxury touch points associated with the IS sport sedans, while additional comfort and entertainment features provide a consistent atmosphere regardless of top configuration. Special attention was given to providing an attractive interior design when viewing the convertible externally. The door and side trim is fashioned to create continuity and continuous flow from front to back, the two rear seats are positioned slightly inboard to maximize room and comfort, and Lexus ensured easy ingress/egress with a one-touch feature that automatically folds a front seat and moves it forward. The rear-seat console includes cup holders and storage.
Exterior
IS 350C’s exterior design has its lineage in the IS sedan but possesses its own dynamic styling, including unique characteristics when interchanging between convertible and coupe configurations.
The convex shoulder lines distinguish the convertible’s profile, while the top-up configuration provides a sweeping cabin silhouette. With the top down, the belt-line draws up around the rear deck lid, providing a muscular look. In the front, hood lines flow into a unique chrome grille shape, then continue down into an air inlet before flowing outward past the more distinctive elliptical fog lamp design.
In addition, the rear view features a clean, continuous design, with flowing bumper corners and a strong bumper shape that flows inward towards the exhaust. The combination taillamp clusters feature LED lights and two distinct horizontal lines that emphasize breadth, while the LED brake light integrated within the standard rear spoiler imparts a sporty impression.
Connectivity
The Lexus IS 350C connects you to music, information and destinations, through onboard systems and your smartphone. Standard equipment includes a SiriusXM Satellite Radio receiver, Bluetooth hands free phone capability with automatic phonebook download, Bluetooth music streaming, and USB/iPod connectivity.
An available hard disc drive navigation system also comes with Lexus Enform Destination Services, which includes Destination Assist, eDestination and the subscription-free Lexus Enform App Suite. Its voice-enabled apps let you search the Internet through Bing, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com, listen to Pandora and iHeartRadio.
Lexus Enform Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles, while Lexus Enform Destination Services is on all vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system and includes a complimentary one-year trial subscription. The Lexus Enform response centers operate 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Engine
Under the hood, the IS 350C’s 3.5-liter V6 delivers exhilarating performance with outstanding 306 horsepower at 6,400 rpm along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm. An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS 350C.
Summary
Some find the choice between coupe and convertible difficult to make. The Lexus IS 350C eliminates that dilemma. Its retractable hardtop provides the snugness of a closed coupe when up, and, at the push of a button, lowers in just 20 seconds when you want the unique feeling of top-down driving.
The IS 350C also comes with a pedigree. More than 20 years ago, Lexus became the first brand to offer a retractable hardtop convertible in the premium-luxury segment, enhancements to the IS 350C for 2015 include a new, organ-type accelerator pedal and, expanding music options, upgrading to the Lexus App Suite with iHeartRadio 4.0 and adding Slacker.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $47,240.00, the one I drove included the Luxury Package, Navigation System, Intuitive Parking Assist with Front and Rear Sensors, Trunk Map, Cargo Net and Wheel Locks, and it came in at $54,460.00 including delivery, processing and handling fee.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
