Lexus IS Convertible - The pleasure of open-top driving.

The Lexus IS300C seamlessly blends the expressive stylishness of a hardtop convertible with the quietness and comfort of a coupe.

The IS convertible features the same powertrain as the IS sedans. The IS300C's 3.0-litre V6 delivers exhilarating performance with a power of 270 HP and a torque of 30.6 Kg.M. The engine utilizes aluminum cylinder blocks and heads, while employing dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.

An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the IS300C.

The convertible’s three-piece hardtop provides open-air freedom with the top down through the operation of a convenient single switch. Constructed primarily of lightweight aluminum, the hardtop also provides surprising storage space but with low noise and increased security not typically found in soft-top convertibles. In addition, the top completely retracts with no elements remaining in view.

The four-link roof assembly, also made of aluminum for a lightweight design, provides smooth even movement. Engineered to operate in an easy, efficient manner, each component is motor driven with detection switches, allowing the control unit to know their exact position at all times. In addition to the two main roof panels being constructed of light-weight aluminum, the back window’s reinforced glass construction also lends itself to reduced weight. Weather-strip changes in areas around the doors and windows ensure tight seals.

A roof-speed brake-control system decreases the roof speed especially as it approaches the end of the closing operation in either direction, ensuring an elegant and quiet movement. On models equipped with available Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), sonar sensors in the rear bumper will stop the movement of the luggage door at the start of operation if it detects an obstacle will interfere. Also, a visual warning will appear on the instrument panel if a detected obstacle may soon interfere with top operation.

When the IS convertible’s top is opened or closed, the power windows will automatically lower if in the closed position, and raise back up when the operating switch is held. Also, when the top is up, the door windows automatically lower 15 mm when the door opens, and then raise back into a fully closed position when the door closes. This ensures the doors’ clean open/close function while also maintaining a tight seal around the glass. The aluminum hardtop features an automatic front lock assembly that provides the interior security not found in soft-top convertibles. When the top is stowed in the down position in the rear of the IS convertible, the lock assembly is engaged to keep the panel in a fixed, stable position.

The transformation to a convertible also required reevaluation of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics in order to meet Lexus standards. All body and chassis revisions went through extensive testing to ensure that IS300C has nearly identical NVH characteristics as the IS sedans.

Engineers tuned and optimized specific features for the convertible including the double-wishbone front suspension for handling control and ride comfort; the torsional rigidity of the suspension bushings, the spring constant on the coil springs, and the shock absorber damping force; the stabilizer shape and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) gear ratio for control; the suspension bushings, coil springs and shock-damping force of the multi-link rear suspension; and a lowered rear-suspension tower with enhanced rigidity to help provide rear control, linear yaw response and improved trunk space.

Standard Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System (VDIM) governs all of the vehicle’s dynamic handling systems – the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) – employing them collectively and seamlessly to make corrections while helping provide higher dynamic capability. VDIM also interfaces with the electronic throttle control system. The IS convertible features large, ventilated four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and BA.

Passive-safety technology begins with a number of body-structure changes integrated in the IS 300C to help augment strength and torsional rigidity. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front seats, while the rear seats adopt emergency locking retractor seatbelts with an automatic locking retractor.

In addition to the dual-front airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the IS convertible includes front-seat-mounted head and torso side airbags, and knee airbags for both the driver and the front passenger. The front-passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to provide overall occupant protection.

The IS convertible emphasizes easy access and rear-seat comfort. In addition to front doors that are longer than the IS sedans, two convenient fold-forward lock-release levers are standard on both sides of the front passenger seats, making it easier to operate from any location inside the vehicle. The passenger seat features a power slide button on the top of the seatback to ease rear seat ingress/egress. An available automatic one-touch, easy-entry power-seat mechanism provides even easier egress and ingress through quick-acting, front-seat fold-and-slide activation. The two passenger doors also have three open-stopping positions (rather than the normal two) to add convenience in various parking situations. The IS convertible also is equipped with a standard power tilt and telescoping steering column to help the driver quickly get into a comfortable position.

The IS convertible’s air conditioning system automatically adjusts for the outside temperature when the top is lowered, improving interior temperature consistency and comfort. The system adjusts the air outlets, temperature and air flow exiting the outlets. The airflow volume adjusts to outside temperature and vehicle speed, while the temperature control adjusts to outside temperature, amount of sunlight and vehicle speed. The system also includes a pollen filter and variable-control compressor.

The standard 12 Speaker Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, Bluetooth® hands free phone capability and music streaming, and USB/iPod® connectivity. An equalizer system maintains the same acoustic field when the top is either open or closed, compensating for the natural loss of bass sounds when open. When connected to the USB port, the iPod can be controlled through the audio system or steering wheel controls, while information such as names for the artist, track and album is displayed on the head unit or navigation screen.

Lexus has an exciting array of special offers for its customers this festive season. The Offer attractions include 2 years/ 30,000 Kms Free Service Package, Free registration and 6 years protection and more. The main highlight of the offer this year, and for the first time in Lexus, is the opportunity to win a Brand New IS250 Sedan on Grand Raffle.

Lexus vehicles are brought to you in Oman by the Saud Bahwan Group. In Oman, every Lexus vehicle comes with special benefits and privileges such as 6 years unlimited extended mileage protection – AMAN BAHWAN and Lexus Prestige Club Card that offers 24 hours on-road assistance from AAA.

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