Lexus IS 250C SE-L

Nov 28 2009 Maxine Ashford

WHEN it comes to luxury, outstanding quality and performance to blow your socks off, few manufacturers can compete with Lexus.

Admittedly, the cars are not cheap, but nor is the craftsmanship and finesse that oozes from the luxury arm of Toyota's vehicles.

The IS 250C has to be the ultimate in convertible models with the kings of hush coming up trumps yet again.

Somehow with the roof up, the hum of the air conditioning is the only noise you will hear as you hurtle along the motorway, unless you opt for a little background music from the amazing 12-speaker surround sound audio system.

Based on the IS saloon, the IS 250C is targeting the upmarket convertible drivers who may be tempted by a BMW or Mercedes.

The folding roof can be raised or lowered in just 20 seconds which makes it the fastest operator on the market today and unlike many rivals, its looks are guaranteed to turn heads when open or closed.

Powered by a 2.5-litre engine, the 250C is fitted with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted shifters for manual changes if so desired.

From the moment you take your place behind the steering wheel it is almost like those designers at Lexus have purpose built the car for you. The comfort levels are superb with heated leather seats that can be electronically adjusted every which way and all the controls and dials perfectly positioned for ease of use.

Visibility generally is good although the rear view window - like most convertibles - is very small and visibility is somewhat restricted.

The front seats are easily moved and folded forward automatically at the touch of a button on the seat back which eases access while rear seat passengers are treated to extra legroom as the front seat backs have been sculpted out.

One thing that makes an immediate impression is the build quality - the IS 250C has what I can only describe as the heaviest doors that I have come across... and I have driven some big monsters.

The drive itself is outstanding with a beautiful combination of power, finesse and road-holding delivering one of the smoothest rides available.

The host of quality features is, of course, matched by the vast list of safety specifications crammed into the vehicle which together makes it such a desirable temptation. The only downside - the price of £43,000-plus - ouch!

FAST FACTS

Lexus IS 250C SE-L

Price: £43,250

Mechanical: 205bhp, 2,499cc, 6cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 130mph

0-62mph: 9 seconds

Combined mpg: 30.4

Insurance group: 15

CO2 emissions: 219g/km

BIK rating: 35%

Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles