LEXUS: The IS 250C, an Intelligent Sports Convertible.
LEXUS IS 250C
The Intelligent Convertible Sports Car
LexusLexus has newly established the IS 250C convertible model within its IS series, which touts "intelligent sports," and launched it on May 7th.
Text by Giraffe
Aluminum Electric Roof Opens and Closes in 20 Seconds
The Lexus IS 250C is a convertible model that features a power-retractable metal roof, achieving a beautiful exterior whether the roof is open or closed, while allowing drivers to fully enjoy the pleasure of open-air driving.
Thanks to the use of a lightweight aluminum alloy roof and an all-electric system, the roof can be opened and closed quietly in a mere 20 seconds.
Designed with the theme of "2-Mode Style" based on Lexus's design philosophy of "L-finesse," the exterior achieves a flowing silhouette in open mode and a sporty, integrated look of cabin and body in closed mode.
Five Interior Colors Available
In a convertible, the design of the interior, which is exposed to view, becomes an even more important element. The Lexus IS 250C integrates sporty front seats with luxurious rear seats in a bold and sophisticated form. Furthermore, five interior colors are offered, along with three types of two-tone seat colors, three optional stitch colors for seats and trim, and three wood panel colors, allowing owners to coordinate the interior to their personal taste.
In terms of practicality, it secures cabin space for four adults to ride comfortably. The trunk can store one 9-inch golf bag even when the top is down, thanks to the three-piece folding roof.
Safety is a particular concern for open-top models, but through reinforcement of the body structure and effective bracing under the floor, it achieves world-leading rigidity and strength for a convertible. This not only provides excellent handling during open-air driving but also boasts high collision safety. For the front seats, in addition to dual-stage airbags and knee airbags, it comes standard with newly developed head-and-chest-protecting SRS side airbags.
The price is 4.95 million yen for the standard model, and 5.35 million yen for the "version L," which features enhanced equipment such as leather seats.
![]()
LEXUS IS 250C
Body | Length 4635 x Width 1795 x Height 1415mm
Curb Weight | 1730kg
Engine | 2.5L V6
Max Output | 158kW [215ps] / 6400rpm
Max Torque | 260Nm [26.5kgm] / 3800rpm
Transmission | Super Intelligent 6-speed Automatic
Price | 4.95 million yen, 5.35 million yen (version L)
Lexus Information Desk
0800-500-5577
http://lexus.jp
BRAND HISTORY
Toyota launched its luxury car brand LEXUS in the American market in 1989. The aim was to offer new value, distinct from American and German luxury cars, through Toyota's proud technological prowess, superior quality, and exceptional customer service.
In September of the same year, the "LS400" (domestic name Celsior) and "ES250" (domestic name Camry) were introduced to the American market, and by February of the following year, the LS400 had already won Best Import Car. Subsequently, Lexus's reputation continued to grow, and with the expansion of its lineup, it solidified its position as a luxury car brand.
Following its success in America, Lexus expanded into Europe in 2004 and announced its business development in Japan in May of that year. In August of the following year, 2005, it launched its luxury car business in its home country. Initially, the lineup lacked a flagship model like the "LS," consisting of the "GS" (successor to Toyota's Aristo), "SC" (Toyota's Soarer), and "IS" (successor to Toyota's Altezza). However, with the introduction of the long-awaited new LS in September 2006, and its hybrid version "LS600h/LS600hL" in May 2007, Lexus met the expectations of the luxury sedan market.
Meanwhile, Lexus has been focusing on building a sports image, announcing the sports model "IS F" in October 2007 and entering the developing sports coupe "LF-A" in the Nürburgring 24 Hours race in May 2008, further enhancing its appeal and anticipating increased popularity.

