Earlier this month, rumors began to circulate about a convertible version of the Lexus IS-F. While the open-air IS 250C and IS 350C are brand new to the market, it appears the luxury carmaker wants to flesh out the lineup even further with a more powerful model. Our artist’s not-so-speculative illustrations offer a glimpse ahead at what to expect.
Lexus is said to be readying the convertible version of its fire-breathing IS-F for early 2011. The drop top version of the IS F will use the same 416 horsepower 5.0L V8 found in the IS F sedan, according to Car and Driver. The IS-F convertible will also borrow the sedan’s eight-speed transmission.
Although the IS-F convertible will undoubtedly be the highest performing Lexus convertible, it should be just a step or two slower than its four-door counterpart. The IS C convertibles weigh about 400 pounds more than their sedan counterparts, meaning you can expect the same weigh penalty from the IS-F convertible.
The IS F convertible should also give Lexus better footing against rival BMW . The IS F already competes against the M3 Sedan and the IS F convertible would logically be a natural competitor for the M3 Convertible.
If the latest reports prove to be true, expect to see the IS-F convertible bow sometime late next year.
