Model tested: Lexus IS 250C SE-L
Price: £43,250
Date tested: October 2009
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Auto Trader Ten Point Test rating: 77%
The convertble is the first new IS bodystyle since the second-generation saloon arrived in 2005. Lexus says the roof is the quickest in its class and claims it's the car to take the fight to the 3-Series; we find out.

1. Looks
The IS 250C has acquired some sex appeal; it's immediately identifiable as the roofless brother of the saloon, but few bits are shared. It really turns heads in open-top mode thanks to perfect proportions.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The cabin is predictably sober, with tactile plastics, although the grey trim in the centre console feels comparatively low-rent. Some of the wood trim is old-fashioned too; there's a metal trim in the SE-I.
8/10

3. Practicality
The 583-litre boot is the biggest in its class; even roof down there's 235 litres. Getting out of the front seats isn't easy as they're low. Visibility out front is good, but not so good to the rear.
7/10

4. Ride and Handling
The dynamics can't match those of the 3-Series. More tuned for comfort than handling, the ride is superb, only the roughest of surfaces grating. Fold the roof and some rigidity is lost, but there's little difference in the handling.
7/10

5. Performance
Only a 2.5-litre V6 six-speed auto 'box are offered. Despite the 205bhp and 185lb ft of pulling power, the IS feels lethargic, with a 9-second 0-62mph time and a 130mph top speed.
7/10

---

---

6. Running Costs
Starting at £35,000, the IS 250C is £1,000-£2,000 more than an equivalent 3-Series, with residuals likely to be weaker. Expect 30.4mpg while CO2 emissions of 219g/km mean costly tax; insurance is group 15.
7/10

7. Reliability
Only a mysterious rattle inside blotted the copybook of an otherwise perfectly built car. Anecdotal evidence points to the saloon being well built and the folding roof mechanism appears well engineered.
9/10

8. Safety
There's no EuroNCAP rating for the convertible, but the saloon scored five stars and the safety kit is identical, with airbags galore up front; EBD and brake assist; ESP, traction control and more.
8/10

9. Equipment
All models have a comprehensive security system, eight-speaker hi-fi, automatic lights and wipers, keyless entry, cruise control, climate control, electric seats, folding mirrors and 18-inch alloys. The SE-L adds sat-nav and rear park camera, heated and cooled seats and adaptive HID headlights.
9/10

10. X-Factor
It's the sexiest Lexus yet with genuine head-turning abilities. Whether it rivals the 3-Series depends on what you want from the car - its better built and more discreet, but not so good dynamically.
7/10