In the mean time, you have tuners offering their visual and performance upgrades to the Lexus IS 350C. VIP Auto Salon will be showing up to this year’s SEMA Show with a customized IS 350C that produces a strong 386-hp and 372 lb-ft of torque. The increase comes courtesy of a Power Enterprise Rotex Supercharger kit by Apexi x Vip Auto Salon.

Of course, there are a bunch of exterior and interior upgrades.

Check out the details after the jump.

VIP Auto Salon Lexus IS 350C Details:

WHEELS/TIRES

• F SPORT 19” Full-Face Forged Alloy Wheels
• Michelin Pilot Sport tires 

SUSPENSION

• TOMS upper shock tower brace
• F SPORT Lowering Spring Set
• F SPORT Bilstein Shock Absorber Set
• F SPORT Sway Bar Kit

EXTERIOR

• Custom Carbon Fiber Aero Styling Package
• Consists of a Front Lip Spoiler, Side Diffuser, Rear Diffusers, Rear Trunk Spoiler, and Eye lines
• Seibon Carbon Fiber Hood
• Custom head light housing
• Custom Chameleon paint by K&W
• Huper Optik Ceramic film by STM

INTERIOR

• Custom Seat inserts by Top Stitch
• F SPORT Carbon Shift Knob
• F SPORT Floor mats
• F SPORT Carbon fiber Engine Cover

LIGHTING

• Interior and Exterior Bulb replacements by VLEDS
• Consists of LED interior package, D4S 6k replacement
• HID Fog Light kit, and DRL LED replacement

PERFORMANCE 

• Power Enterprise Rotex Supercharger kit by Apexi x Vip Auto Salon
• 386hp @5800 rpm 372lb-ft @ 5200 rpm
• PTS Joe Z Series Header Back Exhaust System
• Apexi Smart Accel Controller

- By: Omar Rana

2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition

Besides the Lexus LFA and the IS-F the only thing sporty about Lexus is the Lexus IS 350 F Sport. Lexus today announced the new 2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition, which will hit dealerships later this month.

“The F Sport Special Edition builds on the IS 350C and takes the fun of the convertible up another notch,” said Mark Templin, Lexus Division group vice president and general manager. “The racing inspired F Sport accessories on this car were precision engineered specifically for this vehicle, allowing us to provide performance without compromise.”

Click here for more news on the Lexus IS 350C.

The 2011 Lexus IS 350C Special Edition is available in two colors including Starfire Pearl or Obsidian and features: 19-inch forged alloy wheels with dark graphite finish and Michelin Pilot Sport 225/35ZR19 tires in the front and 255/35ZR19 tires in the rear; shock set developed in cooperation with Bilstein; lowering springs that reduce the ride height approximately one-inch in the front and rear; a sway bar; Bi-Xenon High Intensity Headlamps with LED Daytime Running Lights; and exterior badging.

The 2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition is priced at $55,120 (not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $875).

2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition:

- By: Omar Rana

Consumer Reports gave the Infiniti G37 Convertible, Lexus IS 250C and the Audi A5 Cabriolet convertibles an overall score of “Very Good,” topping Consumer Reports’ tests of three four-seat convertibles for the May 2010 issue. The publication also tested two less expensive convertibles including the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Mini Cooper S Convertible.

The Infiniti G37 Convertible and IS 250C earned “Very Good” overall road-test scores of 77, slightly beating the Audi A5 convertible, which earned a test score of 74. All three convertibles beat other’s competitors including the previously tested Volkswagen Eos (78) and BMW 328i (76) .

“The G37 has many of the qualities CR”s testers like in the sedan configuration. The IS 250 should satisfy those looking for a refined and easygoing convertible, making both of them good choices,” said David Champion, senior director of Consumer Reports” Auto Test Center in East Haddam, Connecticut.

Click here to read our review on the 2009 Infiniti G37 S Convertible.

In the convertibles tested, Consumer Reports only gave the Miata a “Recommended” rating since it said it doesn’t have sufficient reliability data on the IS 250C, A5, G37 Convertible, and Cooper S Convertible.

Review: 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible:

All Photos Copyright © 2009 Omar Rana ““ egmCarTech.

- By: Omar Rana

It was reported earlier this year that Lexus may be working on a convertible version of the Lexus IS-F for early 2011. Since that is still a long way out, tuner Fox Marketing will be modifying the IS 350C to produce a total of 405-hp for this year’s SEMA show.

Extra power comes from adding a ProCharger Supercharger System to the 3.5L V6 that powers the IS 350C.

Fox Marketing will also be adding a custom lip molded front spoiler, IS-F front fenders, IS-F side skirts, custom 2-inch fender flares, a custom rear bumper flare and a custom Sebion Carbon rear-wing.

Check out the full list of modifications after the jump.

Fox Marketing  2010 Lexus IS 350C:

Press Release:

Fox Marketing 2010 Lexus IS350C

Builder: Brian Fox/Fox Marketing
www.foxmarketingcars.com

Engine:

* Jashaan Autosports powered by ProCharger Supercharger System (405hp @ 6psi)
* ProCharger C-2 Blower
* Yonaka Intercooler Type 10 22x9x3
* Yonaka 2.5 inch Stainless Intercooler Piping
* Yonaka Couplers & Silicone hoses
* AMSOIL 0w-30 Signature Series Synthetic Fluids
* AMSOIL EA Oil Filter
* AMSOIL Antifreeze
* F-Sport Exhaust

Interior:

* Lexus Cream White Interior
* BASF R-M Black Painted Interior Parts
* Classic Design Concepts Light Bar

Exterior:

* BASF R-M Foxy Green Paint
* BASF R-M Black Paint
* Custom Lip molded front spoiler
* Custom IS F front fenders
* Custom IS F Side Skirts
* Custom 2 inch fender flares
* Custom Rear bumper flare
* Custom SEIBON Carbon rear wing
* Custom BASF R-M Carizzma Flat Black Grill Ring
* Custom BASF R-M Black Grill inserts
* Custom BASF R-M Foxy Green Lexus badge
* Custom BASF R-M Black Lexus rear logos

Lighting:

* Lightwurkz Custom BASF R-M Carizzma Flat Black Headlight Casings
* Lightwurkz Custom 3 prong LED turn signals
* Lightwurkz Custom shaved center running light

Brakes:

* F-Sport Big Brakes 14 inch 6 piston Calipers

Suspension:

* Yonaka SPECII 36 way adjustable Coilovers
* TunedParts Rear Brace

Wheels & Tires:

* Front: 20×9 iForged Sprint BASF R-M Carizzma Flat Black w/ Gloss Black Lips ““ Cream white bolts
* 245/30/20 Toyo T1R
* Rear: 20×11.5 iForged Sprint BASF R-M Carizzma Flat Black w/ Gloss Black Lips ““ Cream white bolts
* 305/30/20 Toyo T1R

Partners:

Lexus, BASF Refinish, AMSOIL, Yonaka, iForged, ProCharger, F-Sport, Jashaan Autosports, Classic Design Concepts, Lightwurkz, Mugsy’s Repair, Detrich Autobody, Impressive Signs, Tuned Parts, ClubLexus.com, my.is

- By: Kap Shah

Lexus has unveiled a new aggressive ad-campaign that focuses around its new 2010 Lexus IS C Convertible. Lexus will launch a total of three TV ad spots features the IS C Convertible and one spot featuring the full Lexus IS lineup.

Besides that, Lexus has also teamed up with a ABC.com, YouTube, UrbanDaddy.com and Brash Media to launch banner ads and interactive video content on select lifestyle and enthusiast sites (and as you can see on the ads running on our site – we’re one of them).

Lexus even dropped a bunch of new press images of the 2010 IS C Convertible, so we went ahead and updated our photo gallery for you (see it after the jump).

You can check out all four TV ad spots after the leap.

2010 Lexus IS C Convertible:

2010 Lexus IS C Commercial: “Hop In”:

2010 Lexus IS C Commercial: “Look Out”:

2010 Lexus IS C Commercial: “Running”:

2010 Lexus IS Full-line Commercial: “Scream”:

2010 Lexus IS C Convertible:

Press Release:

Lexus Turns Up The Heat This Summer

TORRANCE, Calif. (May 18, 2009)-Lexus unleashes its mischievous side with the debut of the all-new 2010 Lexus IS C retractable hardtop convertible, an entirely new dimension to the IS Line. To launch the highly anticipated convertible, Lexus is debuting an integrated marketing campaign designed to emphasize the vehicle’s adventurous, playful personality and reach consumers looking for a thrill.

“The IS C gives Lexus the opportunity to reveal its more dynamic and playful side,” states Dave Nordstrom, vice president of marketing for Lexus. “For the launch of the long-awaited IS C, we created a new advertising campaign that allows us to showcase the vehicle’s unique personality and give consumers a glimpse of the adrenaline rush the IS C delivers.”

The launch campaign features three IS C broadcast spots and one IS full-line spot, as well as print, interactive, out-of-home and support at key Lexus-sponsored events. The TV spots titled, “Hop In”, “Running” and “Look Out”, feature the tag line, “Live a little, a lot.” Each highlights the thrill of driving the IS C, as the car hugs every curve on the road and the drivers experience the thrill of driving top-down in a Lexus.

The IS full-line spot titled, “Scream,” features all of the vehicles in the IS line-up-the IS, ISF and ISC-as they speed through the streets at heart-pounding speeds. The drivers scream with excitement as the vehicles effortlessly take every turn that come their way. The spots will begin airing May 18 on prime network and cable stations and will also run on the websites for ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, Hulu, ESPN, Comedy Central, Vogue.TV, AskMen.com, Car and Driver, Road and Track, Facebook and YouTube.

Beyond TV, Lexus has entered into three notable interactive partnerships, along with banner ads on select lifestyle and enthusiast sites. The interactive partnership elements include:

ABC.com and YouTube

* Lexus is the first and sole sponsor of the ABC short-form video channel on YouTube; content includes clips, recaps and webisodes. Also sponsoring ABC News’ YouTube channel.
* IS C spots on the ABC.com’s Full Episode Player.
* Lexus will be the first advertiser to work with ABC to test pre-roll in front of short form content on YouTube.

UrbanDaddy.com

- Lexus IS C will be the exclusive sponsor of the Urban Daddy digital lifestyle concierge and microsite, which will also offer consumers the first iPhone app from both brands. The application provides a taste of cities’ of-the-moment hot spots and trends with a real-time entertainment concierge and itinerary building service.
- Additionally, as part of the Lexus IS C campaign, readers can visit the “Randomize Your Night” site on Urban Daddy’s home page, created specifically for Lexus. Hit the “Randomizer” button, and be provided with a real-time itinerary based on specific inputted criteria and Urban Daddy’s archived library of hot happening city experiences.
- Cities include New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami and Las Vegas.

Brash Media

- Lexus partners with Brash Media to sponsor Brash’s Road Trip “Guys Getaway” editorial feature.
- The IS C is highlighted as the ultimate vehicle for guys looking to get away in this unique editorial feature.

In addition to the interactive and broadcast elements, Lexus will run a national print campaign in enthusiast and general interest magazines as well as regional newspaper ads in key markets, beginning with June issues.

Mobile will also play a prominent role in the launch campaign with ESPN and UrbanDaddy’s first-ever iPhone applications. Additional mobile partnerships include presence on Wired.com’s and Style.com’s iPhone applications, The Wall Street Journal Blackberry application and the Fast Company and Askmen.com mobile WAP sites. Traffic will be driven to Lexus’ WAP site: m.lexus.com.

The 2010 IS C has a base MSRP of $38,490 for the IS 250 C and $43,940 for the IS 350 C. MSRP does not include the destination fee of $875. For additional information, visit Lexus.com.

- By: Kap Shah

Lexus already offers its F-Sport Performance Package line on the GS and IS and is now extending the offering to the IS C Convertible upgrades include forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust systems and more.

All F-Performance Accessories are fully warranted for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.

You can visit the F-Sport Performance site for more info.

Lexus F-Sport Performance Accessories for IS C Convertible:

F-Sport 19″ Forged Alloy Wheels

This lightweight forged alloy wheel, exclusively designed in a dark graphite finish, includes a staggered fitment with 19″ X 8″ front wheels and 19″ X 9″ rear wheels. Recommended tire sizes are 225/35R19 in the front and 255/35R19 in the rear.

F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade

The Front Brake Upgrade provides a firmer pedal feel and improved fade resistance in repeated severe duty use. The Brake features six piston fixed calipers, and drilled cast iron 355mm diameter rotors with a patented internal fin design mounted on anodized aluminum hubs. Braided stainless steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are included and the upgrade can be used with stock or F-Sport upgraded rear brakes.

F-Sport Rear Brake Upgrade

Similar in construction to the F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade, the rear brake upgrade uses four piston fixed calipers and drilled cast iron 345mm diameter rotors. Braided stainless steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are also included. The Rear Brake Upgrade may only be used in conjunction with F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade.

F-Sport Continuous Carbon CeramicTM Brake Upgrade

A new generation of carbon fiber-reinforced ceramic material technology maximizes high-temperature durability and system cooling in this ultimate upgrade for the IS F. Ceramic rotors measure 380mm diameter front and 355mm diameter rear on anodized aluminum hats. They incorporate the same internal cooling vane concepts as the F-Sport cast iron rotors, while significantly reducing unsprung and rotating mass compared to the IS F stock brake system. Distinctively finished six-piston front and four-piston rear fixed calipers signify leading-edge technology and performance. Specially qualified performance brake pads and stainless steel brake lines are included.

F-Sport Exhaust System

This system features all stainless steel construction with fully polished mufflers and double-wall exhaust tips. In addition to an outstanding appearance, it delivers a powerful, sport-tuned exhaust sound.

F-Sport Lowering Spring Set

This feature lowers the vehicle approximately 1″ in the front and rear for a more aggressive appearance and a lower center of gravity. The spring set is engineered to deliver lowered ride height without bottoming out or creating a harsh ride. The feature can be used with either the stock or F-Sport shock absorber set.

F-Sport Sway Bar Set

This includes a set of larger diameter, replacement front and rear sway bars that offer reduced body roll and flatter cornering. Urethane mounting brushings are also included to replace the original rubber brushings.

F-Sport Bilstein Shock Absorber Set

Developed in cooperation with Bilstein and available exclusively through the F-Sport Performance Accessory program, this shock absorber set offers sport-tuned suspension dampening without sacrificing ride quality.

F-Sport Clutch

The F-Sport Clutch increases clamping force approximately 15% to handle higher torque capacity and provide improved feel.

F-Sport Quick Shifter

Engineered and machined from billet aluminum, the F-Sport Quick Shifter decreases shift throw by approximately 30% for positive shifting.

F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace

To improve chassis stiffness under aggressive driving conditions and provide a more responsive feel during cornering, the F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace joins key rear chassis and suspension mounting points through this tubular steel brace.

F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover

Constructed from real carbon fibers, this very light and durable engine cover provides a high-tech appearance under the hood. This is a direct replacement for the original cover and is only available for the IS 350.

F-Sport Air Intake

This low restriction intake and filter assembly is fully compatible with stock engine controls and is emission legal in all 50 states.

Lexus Genuine Accessory Ground Effects Kit

For a lower, more aggressive appearance, this color-keyed four-piece body kit includes front and rear valences and side skirts.

Lexus Genuine Accessory Rear Spoiler

This rear deck mounted, color-keyed lip-style spoiler provides the finishing touch for the sport-tuned enthusiast.

- By: Kap Shah

We have no idea what Lexus plans on doing with the SC convertible – some reports say that the car has been canned while others say a next-generation is in the works. In the meantime, those looking for a drop-top Lexus can opt for the Lexus IS Convertible, which hits showrooms later this year.

According to Toyota spokesman Hideki Homma, Lexus hopes to sell 1,600 IS Convertible units a month, with about 70 percent of those coming from North America. Through April, Lexus has sold only 310 units of its SC convertible.

“This is meant to appeal as an entry-level Lexus,” project manager Keiichi Nishiyama told Automotive News at the car’s Japan launch today. “Its main target is overseas customers, especially in North America.”

Pricing for the 2010 Lexus IS Convertible start at $38,490 for the IS250C and $43,940 for the IS350C.

2010 Lexus IS Convertible:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

The drop-top Lexus IS Convertibles are ready to go on sale nationwide starting next month. Lexus said today that pricing for the 2010 IS 250C will start at $38,490 when equipped with a 6-speed manual and $39,660 with a 6-speed automatic. The 2010 IS 350C starts at $43,940 and comes with a 6-speed automatic.

Powetrain choices remain the same as the IS sedans. The IS 250C carries the 2.4L V6 making 204-hp while the IS 350C is powered by the 3.5L V6 engine making 306-hp.

For those of you that really care, the Lexus IS Convertible drops its top in 20 seconds.

Click through for the press release and the high-res image gallery.

2010 Lexus IS Convertible:

Press Release:

IS250C and IS350C

Featuring a three-panel roof that opens in just 20 seconds, the new IS250C and IS350C provide the spirited sophistication of a convertible and the sporty styling of a coupe. The three-panel roof structure is primarily constructed of lightweight aluminum that helps achieve smooth, quiet retraction; it also helps provide compact packaging and convenient luggage space. With the exception of the hood, all other body panels have been designed to blend seamlessly with the new three-panel folding roof.

Powered by the same powertrain as the IS sedans, the IS 250C features a 2.5-liter, 204-hp V6 mated to a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission; the IS350C contains a 3.5-liter, 306-hp V6 with a six-speed automatic. Revisions to the body structure and suspension provide torsional stiffness and ride comfort with the top down, and low Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) on par with the IS sedan when in coupe configuration.

The IS250C and IS350C’s new exterior design provides dynamic, unique styling when interchanging between convertible and coupe configurations. A sleek aerodynamic design and a collection of underbody covers help achieve its lowest possible drag coefficient – 0.29 Cd versus the IS sedan’s 0.27 Cd – while creating minimal wind turbulence in the cabin.

In the front, a new fog-lamp design is integrated in the revised front air dam. The rear overhang increases by two inches to improve luggage space, providing storage for two golf bags in coupe configuration and one in a convertible. New combination tail-lamp clusters feature LED lights; a LED brake light is integrated within the standard rear spoiler.

The interior maintains the innovation and luxury touch points associated with the IS sport sedans, while new comfort and entertainment features provide a consistent atmosphere regardless of top configuration. Instrument gauges have been revised to help increase visibility during top-down driving, and the climate-control system has a speed-sensitive control feature that automatically increases air flow when the top is down while also automatically adjusting to vehicle speed.

With a four-seat configuration, the IS250C and IS350C’s rear seats feature a center console with built-in cup holders. In addition to front doors that are 11.8 inches longer than the IS sedans, an available new one-touch automatic mechanism provides easier egress and ingress through quick-acting, front-seat fold-and-slide activation. Rear-seat comfort is enhanced by shifting seat position inboard, providing improved headroom. The front seat backs are configured to also provide better rear-seat legroom.

A number of body-structure changes have been integrated into the IS250C and IS350C to augment strength, roll-over protection and torsional rigidity. Active safety features from the IS sedans transfer as well, including Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), and an available Pre-Collision System (PCS). The Safety Restraint System (SRS) will include the twin-chamber passenger airbag, while a new enlarged seat-mounted side airbag helps provide additional protection in certain side-impact scenarios. The convertible body shell has additional energy absorbing side-impact materials that also help protect front and rear passengers.

- By: Omar Rana

Lexus announced today that it will further expand its F-Sport Performance Package line to include parts for the GS, IS C Convertible, and the IS AWD models.

All three models will include performance enhancing parts including and not limited to forged alloy wheels, brake upgrades, suspension systems, air intake, exhaust systems and more. Sales of the models will begin on June 1, 2009. All F-Performance Accessories are fully warranted for 12 months or for the balance of the new car warranty, whichever is greater.

If you’re interested you can visit the F-Sport Performance site for more info.

Follow the jump to see the list of parts in detail.

Lexus F-Sport Performance Accessories:

Lexus F-Sport Performance Accessories List:

F-Sport 18 and 19-inch Forged Alloy Wheels

The F-Sport forged alloy wheels, exclusively designed in a dark graphite finish, not only add an aggressive look to the exterior, but help enhance performance through increased strength and decreased weight. The F-Sport wheels require the use of spline-drive lug nuts, which are included in the available Wheel Installation Kit.

F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade

The Front Brake Upgrade provides a firmer pedal feel and improved fade resistance in repeated severe-duty use. The Brake Upgrade features six-piston fixed calipers and drilled cast-iron rotors with a patented internal-fin design mounted on anodized aluminum hubs. Braided stainless-steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are included, and the upgrade can be used with stock or the F-Sport Rear Brake Upgrade.

F-Sport Rear Brake Upgrade

Similar in construction to the F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade, the Rear Brake Upgrade uses four-piston fixed calipers and drilled cast-iron rotors. Braided stainless-steel brake lines and low-dust performance brake pads are also included. The Rear Brake Upgrade may only be used in conjunction with F-Sport Front Brake Upgrade.

F-Sport Shock Absorber Set

Developed in cooperation with Bilstein® and available exclusively through the F-Sport Performance Accessory program, this shock-absorber set offers sport-tuned suspension dampening without sacrificing ride quality.

F-Sport Lowering Spring Set

This feature lowers the vehicle approximately one inch in the front and rear for a more aggressive appearance and a lower center of gravity. The spring set is engineered to deliver lowered ride height without bottoming out or creating a harsh ride. The sets will be specifically configured for each model and can be used with either the stock or F-Sport Shock Absorber Set.

F-Sport Sway Bar Set

The sway bar set includes larger diameter replacement front-and-rear sway bars that reduce body sway and flatten cornering. Oil-impregnated rubber bushings are also included to replace the original rubber bushings. Each vehicle”s sway bar set is specifically configured to achieve the best performance.

F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace

To improve chassis stiffness under aggressive driving conditions and provide a more responsive feel during cornering, the F-Sport Rear Chassis Member Brace joins key rear-chassis and suspension mounting points through this tubular steel brace.

F-Sport Performance Exhaust System

This system features all stainless-steel construction with fully polished mufflers and double-wall exhaust tips. In addition to an outstanding appearance, it delivers a powerful, sport-tuned exhaust sound while complying with established sound-level standards and does not affect emissions compliance.

F-Sport Performance Air Intake

This low-restriction intake and filter assembly is fully compatible with stock engine controls and is emission legal in all 50 states.

F-Sport Carbon Fiber Engine Cover

Constructed from real carbon fiber, this light-weight, durable engine cover provides a high-tech appearance under the hood. This is a direct replacement for the original cover.

F-Sport Performance ClutchSet

The F-Sport Performance Clutch Set, available for the IS 250 and IS 250C equipped with the manual transmission, increases clamping force approximately 16 percent to handle higher torque capacity and provide improved feel.

F-Sport Quick Shifter

Engineered and machined from billet aluminum, the F-Sport Quick Shifter for the manual-transmission equipped IS 250 and IS 250C decreases shift throw by approximately 35 percent for quicker and more positive shifting.

F-Sport Shift Knob

Constructed from premium leather and genuine carbon fiber, F-Sport shift knobs are sporty and offer a comfortable curved shape. The manual knob is weighted to provide a sporty and more controlled feel while shifting. Both knobs are detailed with signature blue stitching and a silver F-Sport logo.

F-Sport Floor Mats

Made from the same high-quality 18 ounce nylon carpet as the factory mats, the four-piece set is available in black with a silver embroidered “F-Sport” logo.

We first saw the 2010 Lexus IS 250C at the 2008 Paris Auto Show. Now its more powerful sibling, the 350C, has made its debut at the 2008 LA Auto Show. Rival Infiniti also dropped the top on its 2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible starting an all out war of two-door luxury Japanese convertibles.

Refresher:

2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible: 3.7L V6 that produces 325-hp and is mated to a 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters or a 6-speed manual. The Infiniti G37 Convertible folds its top in 30 seconds.
2010 Lexus IS 350C: 3.5L V6 that makes 306-hp and is mated to a 6-speed automatic or 6-speed manual. The Lexus IS 350C takes 20 seconds to drop its top.

So which one do you see yourself driving down Sunset Blvd. in? Vote in the poll below and check out the comments section after the jump and let us know your thoughts process.

Click through for high-res photo galleries of both convertibles.

2009 Infiniti G37 Convertible:

2010 Lexus IS 350C:

Lexus announced today that it will hold the world debut of the 2010 Lexus RX 350 and 2010 Lexus RX 450h SUVs at the 2008 LA Auto Show. The Japanese luxury brand said that the “next generation RX models will raise the bar above the current best-selling products by offering outstanding luxury, comfort, technology, safety and efficiency.”

As announced earlier this morning the 2010 Lexus IS 250C will make its stateside debut in LA. Lexus has now confirmed that the IS 350C will also make its world debut joining the IS convertible lineup. The 2010 Lexus IS 350C will be powered by a 3.5L V6 engine producing 306-hp. Both IS convertible models will be mated to a 6-speed automatic. The IS 250C will be available with a 6-speed manual.

The 2009 Lexus LS460 and LS 460 AWD will also be at the Lexus display. Join us for live coverage of the 2008 LA Auto Show starting Nov. 19th.

Follow the jump for the high-resolution image gallery.

2010 Lexus IS 250C:

We first saw the 2010 Lexus IS 250C at the 2008 Paris Motor Show last month. The hard-top convertible Lexus IS will now make its stateside debut at the 2008 LA Auto Show next week. Lexus has yet to confirm when exactly the IS 250C will arrive in U.S. dealerships but we expect to find out official details at the show.

Power for the drop-top IS comes from the same 204-hp 2.5L V6 from the IS 250 sedan. It will be mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Lexus designers made some tweaks to the three-part roof mechanism to keep performance up to par with the IS sedan.

Lexus has not yet said whether they will offer a IS 350C or a convertible IS-F. Make sure you join us on Nov. 19 through Nov. 20 for live coverage of the 2008 LA Auto Show.

Follow the jump for the high-resolution image gallery.

2010 Lexus IS 250C:

Summer is over – but that didn’t stop Lexus from debuting its convertible IS at the 2008 Paris Motor Show this week. Lexus has also released a short video showing the Lexus IS 250C dropping its top to very epic music that makes you feel like Maximus.

The hard-top 205-hp Lexus IS 250C will go on sale in Europe in Summer 2009. Pricing details and the possibility of the IS 250C coming to the U.S. have yet to be confirmed.

Follow the jump for the video along with high-res images of the Lexus IS 250C.

Live from Paris 2008: 2010 Lexus IS 250C:

Video: 2010 Lexus IS 250C:

Live from Paris 2008: 2010 Lexus IS 250C:

2010 Lexus IS 250C:

Lexus has taken the top down on the IS with the new IS 250C. The 2010 Lexus IS 250C now joins the IS 250, IS 350 and the IS-F and also hints at a possible coupe model in the near future. The hard-top roof folds into the boot as a three-part roof mechanism.

Power comes from the same 205-hp 2.5 liter V6 and a 6-speed automatic from the IS 250 sedan. Lexus designers made some tweaks to keep performance up to par with the IS sedan.

The 2010 IS 250C will go on sale in Europe during the summer of 2009. No word yet on when it’ll make it to the U.S. or if Lexus plans on offering a IS 350C or a convertible version of the IS-F. Stay tuned.

Follow the jump for high-res photos of the IS 250C and the press release.

2010 Lexus IS 250C:

Press Release:

The new Lexus I S250C made its world debut at the 2008 Paris motor show, ahead of going on sale across Europe during the summer of 2009. The new model combines the award-winning design of the IS sports saloon with outstanding open-top engineering ingenuity.

The IS 250C displays Lexus quality and attention to detail in every aspect of its construction and is designed to exceed customer expectations with its fusion of top-down driving pleasure and uncompromised dynamic performance.

It also boasts the fastest opening time for a three-part roof design, with its lightweight aluminium structure folding away in just 20 seconds.

The Lexus IS 250C shares its smooth 205bhp (208 DIN hp) 2.5-litre petrol V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission with the Lexus IS 250 saloon. It has been styled to offer minimal wind turbulence when driving with the top down and extensive revisions to the body structure and suspension provide the right degree of torsional stiffness to ensure a level of ride comfort appropriate for a Lexus. In coupe trim, the car’s low NVH performance is on a par with that of the IS saloon.

Thanks to the remarkably compact packaging of the three-part roof mechanism, there is a large boot space, together with easy rear seat access and generous accommodation for rear passengers.

The new coupe/convertible is the third model in the IS range, joining the IS petrol and diesel-powered sports saloon and the ultra-high performance 5.0-litre V8-powered Lexus IS-F, which introduced the F Sports designation to the line-up earlier this year.

Exterior Design

The Lexus IS 250C builds on the elegant proportions, sweeping, sculptural lines and contrasting convex and concave surfacing of the IS saloon range to combine the muscular appeal of a sports coupe with the stylish lines of a convertible.

Only the bonnet, headlamps, door handles and mirrors are shared with the IS saloon, all other body panels have been redesigned to ensure they harmonise perfectly with the three-part folding roof.

A new fog lamp design is neatly integrated into the deep front air dam and, in side profile, the coupe/convertible’s powerful stance is characterised by muscular coachwork below a pronounced, rising belt line that kicks up towards the rear of the car.

The steeply raked windscreen flows seamlessly into the aerodynamic arc of the roof line. This meets the surface of the boot with a crisp C-pillar that is incorporated in the roof structure. In coupe form the cabin tapers to the rear to give a flowing line from the roof through the C pillar to the luggage compartment. At the rear there are new lamp clusters with LED illumination and a high-mounted LED stop light integrated in the boot lip spoiler.

With the hard top down, the Lexus IS 250C has a seamless and elegant profile that is punctuated only by an integral roll-over hoop behind the rear seat headrests. No roof mechanism elements remain in view or project above the car’s waistline, with the complete structure concealed beneath the boot surface and flush-fitting rear parcel shelf.

The roof is made entirely of lightweight aluminium and gives an unparalleled smooth, seamless and silent operation. It is raised and lowered by means of a dashboard button and features a unique “roof brake” mechanism, which slows the closing of the hard top as it approaches the top edge of the windscreen. Unlike other systems in which the weight of the roof causes the closing speed to increase just before the point of closure, it descends smoothly into place.

Interior Design and Comfort

The Lexus IS 250C offers the same high levels of luxury and practical innovation as the IS saloon, with a number of bespoke technical revisions designed to ensure the on-board comfort and entertainment systems operate effectively when the roof is down.

The instrument panel, surrounding elements and the steering wheel are the same as on the IS saloon, but the instrument binnacle in front of the driver has been extensively revised to ensure good visibility is maintained during top-down driving.

The climate control system has been configured for top-down motoring, with the addition of speed sensitive control, which automatically increases air flow when the roof is lowered and further increases it in line with vehicle speed.

The 12-speaker Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system features equaliser tuning to ensure consistent audio quality whether the roof is up or down, automatically adapting to the natural loss of bass when the roof is stowed. The two full-size rear seats are set 30mm further inboard to optimise headroom and are divided by a centre console with built-in cupholders. Slimmer profiles for the front seats help ensure good legroom for rear passengers.

Accessing the rear seats is made easier by wide-aperture doors that are 300mm longer than those on the IS saloon and a one-touch walk-in button control that quickly and neatly folds and slides the front seats forwards.

The rear overhang is greater by 50mm compared to the saloon. This, together with the exceptionally compact packaging of the folding roof, gives significantly more luggage space, with room for a nine-inch golf bag to be carried with the hard top stowed and the luggage cover in place.

Aerodynamics and Wind Stream Management

The Lexus IS 250C has been designed to combine the lowest possible drag coefficient with minimal wind turbulence affecting the cabin when the roof is down. Key features include a steeply raked windscreen, ultra-smooth cabin profile, aerodynamically efficient “duck tail” rear styling that gives an “airkick” effect, detail rear lamp cluster design and a an array of underbody covers. With the hard top in place the drag coefficient is 0.29, which compares very favourably with the 0.27 Cd of the saloon.

Lexus design engineers focused on reducing wind turbulence and generating the most comfortable airflow pattern for passengers when the roof is lowered. The angle of the windscreen and its top edge are major factors in achieving this performance.

Ride Comfort

The Lexus IS 250C uses the proven front double wishbone and multink rear suspension format from the IS saloon range to give sporting, agile performance. Significant chassis revisions promote greater ride comfort suitable for a convertible and ensure consistent dynamic performance in both coupe and convertible guise.

Extensive temperature, vibration and shaking tests were carried out to ensure the changes to the bodyshell and chassis maintain NVH characteristics almost identical to those of the IS saloon. Class-leading low wind noise levels are achieved with help from acoustic glass for the windscreen and painstaking design of the roof, door and window panel seals.

Safety

The Lexus IS 250C has been designed to achieve a five-star frontal impact rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, with world-class safety performance in both coupe and convertible configuration. Numerous changes in the body structure enhance collision strength, roll-over protection and torsional rigidity, minimising cowl shake and optimising chassis control.

Like the IS saloon, it benefits from the highest content of sophisticated active and passive safety technology in its segment, including Lexus’s Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Control (VDIM), incorporating Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) that is tuned specifically for open-body driving and which gives shorter stopping distances on road surfaces with uneven levels of grip. A revised Pre-Crash Safety (PCS) system is also available, supporting pre-crash seatbelt and braking functions, and the passenger front airbag has a twin-chamber design for safer and more effective operation.

For added protection when driving with the roof down, the Lexus IS 250C is equipped with new-design larger side airbags that provide head protection in the event of a side impact. The bodyshell also features additional energy-absorbing side impact pads for both front and rear seat occupants.