In typical "it just keeps getting better" Lexus fashion, the sporty IS line is now joined by a convertible - the IS-C, completely new from the ground up. It's every ounce an IS, and every drop a Lexus. The love-affiar with Lexus is alive and well - and for good reason!

It comes in two flavors - the IS250C and the IS350C. Both are exceptional and it's quickly becoming the hottest new Cabriolet in the world. From the front, it looks just like an IS sedan. The rear is a bit different from the sedan, but still recognizable as an IS.

The IS-C is a split-personality vehicle - with the top closed its a serious touring coupe, and with the top down it's a sporty open tourer with a playful side.

Closed-top motoring is quiet and comfortable. The roof is well insulated and there is no leaky wind noise. There's plenty of headroom, and when it's time to open the top, its automatic 3-panel folding hard top opens and stows itself in just a few seconds.

Open-top motoring is fun and invigorating. The body remains stable and there is no shaking or rattling - unlike some convertibles that shake like a bowl of jello, IS-C has revisions to the body structure and suspension that provide superior torsional stiffness and ride comfort with the top down.

The interior is a special place - it's comfortable and smartly done. It maintains the feel of the IS sport sedans, while new features provide a consistent atmosphere with top up or down. Instruments have been improved to help increase visibility for top-down driving, and the climate-control system is speed-sensitive and increases air flow in top-down mode. In all, every seat here is the best in the house.

Offered are two engine and transmission choices, trim levels and GPS navigation. Also available is an assortment of "F" performance accessories. 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.

The 2010 IS250C pricing starts at $38,490 when equipped with a six-speed manual transmission; the IS250C with a six-speed automatic transmission will be $39,660. The IS350C pricing starts at $43,940; and we averaged better than 30-mpg during our test.

- by Vince Bodiford

UPDATE - Lexus made huge waves at the recent 2009 SEMA Show - with high-end tuner versions making debut including the IS-C visions. See the video below (right) for official Lexus SEMA car video!

2010 Lexus IS-C Commercial (video)

Lexus IS-C Official Site