The New Lexus IS 250C Introduction

Lexus which is the luxury models for Toyota has developed the new Lexus IS 250C coupe/convertible under the concept keyword ‘Open’. Just like what expected from Lexus the Lexus IS 250C presented quality and high-tech innovation with a specific focus on reinforcing the unique feelings of excitement and freedom inherent in open-topped motoring.

Based on the NVH characteristic which is a Lexus defined target of Noise, Vibration and Harshness, the Lexus IS 250C is equipped with what claimed to be the world’s fastest operating three-part metal folding roof with opening and closing time of just 20 seconds.

This design allows for a quiet and turbulence-free open and closing of the open topped roof and employs 15 motors and 37 sensors to offer a smooth, seamless and silent operation. Because the hard top roof folding operation extends the upper boot lip beyond the rear bumper, the roof folding system incorporates a coupled clearance sonar control safety system integrated within the IS 250C’s rear bumper to remove the risk of damage to the system components during operation.

The Lexus IS 250C also boasts comprehensive levels of standard equipment, including high content of active and passive safety systems as well as both climate control and audio systems which have been specially configured to automatically compensate for roof-down operation. The compact packaging of its roof folding mechanism allows for extra boot space, generous, one-touch walk-in rear seat access and spacious rear passenger accommodation

The bonnet, headlamps, door handles and mirrors of the Lexus 250C is similar to other IS sedan. However, similarity ends there. All other body panels have been redesigned to fit with the new coupe/convertible’s three-part, aluminum folding roof.

The new Lexus IS 250C is equipped with an ultra-smooth, 153kW/208 DIN hp, 2.5 liter direct injection V6 petrol engine mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission featuring sequential, paddle-shift control.

It will accelerate from 0-100km/h in 9.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 210km/h, returning 9.3l/100km in the combined cycle and generating CO2 emissions of 219g/km.

The new coupe/convertible employs the proven double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension format of the IS sedan range to offer a sporting, agile driving experience. Significant chassis revisions have been incorporated to promote the greater ride comfort appropriate to a convertible, and ensure a consistent dynamic performance in both coupe and convertible guise.

Numerous body structure changes, bracing and reinforcements have been incorporated in the IS 250C to enhance collision strength, roll-over protection and torsional rigidity, minimizing cowl shake and optimizing chassis controllability.

The new Lexus IS 250C offers the highest content of sophisticated, active and passive safety technology available in this segment. It includes Lexus’ state-of-the-art Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) incorporating open body-specific VSC tuning for shorter stopping distances on split-friction road surfaces, a revised Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system which supports the Pre-Crash Seatbelt and Pre-Crash Brake Assist functions with Pre-Crash Brake technology, and the world’s first SRS twin-chamber passenger airbag.

A range of advanced driving support systems include Back and Clearance Sonar, Lexus Parking Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and a tire pressure monitor.

For the exterior, the front of the Lexus IS 250C has a wide track and prominent front wheel arches combine with a short front overhang to give the coupe/convertible a low centre of gravity, a wide, dynamic front stance and a robust yet sophisticated appearance.

The vertically latticed grille incorporating the L-finesse signature arrowhead motif instantly identifies the new coupe/convertible as a sporting member of the Lexus marquee. The twin-barrel headlamp clusters are positioned higher than the grille itself, focusing the eye at the very apex of the vehicle to strengthen the impression of speed and agility. A new, chrome-ringed fog lamp design is integrated within the deep front air dam.

To the rear, the IS 250C’s aerodynamically efficient, ‘duck-tail’ styling features new, ‘air-kick’ effect combination lamp clusters with instantly recognizable, linear LED illumination, and a high-mounted LED stop light seamlessly integrated within the upper boot lip. The Lexus IS 250C is fitted with a sporting, 18” five-spoke design.

The Lexus IS 250C instrument panel and surrounding components, as well as the steering wheel, are shared with the IS sedan range. However, the driver’s instrument binnacle has been extensively revised to increase open-topped motoring visibility. The glass transmissivity has been reduced from 30% to 20%. The dial needle shape has been revised and the dials themselves feature metal tone ring surrounds, whilst the central, multi-display screen benefits from a hardtop operation status indicator.

The centre console audio and navigation LCD touch screen has been improved to include a redesigned set-up screen and added audio system screen tabs.

A choice of two interior color schemes is available: Black complemented by Dark Brown wooden insert or Mellow White with Grey Bird’s Eye Maple wooden insert. Full-leather, heated front seats are fitted as standard, with semi-aniline ventilated seats available as an option.