The latest report says that Toyota is coming out with a new entry-level Lexus IS250C pop-top, since it was released in Japan today and is projected to hit showrooms in the US by June this year.
The worldwide sale forecasted by Toyota’s premium brand is 1,600 units monthly with 70 percent of shipments dedicated for the North American market. The base price for the IS 250C model has been placed at $39,365 and $44,815 for the IS 350C. The purpose of these pricings is to attract buyers to the entry level Lexus models with target customers abroad, particularly in North America. The Lexus SC 450, which is priced beginning $67,680 (including shipping) in the US, is the only other roadster in the Luxus line which has not received any major revision since it came out in 2001. Sales of the SC450 in the US dropped from 860 in 2008 to only 310 this year. Power under the hood for the IS250 is a 2.5-liter V6 powerplant, whereas the SC has a 4.3-liter V8. An optional 3.5-liter V6 will be offered for the former in US markets. The IS also comes with a spacious rear passenger section, including features such as a hard-top that can be opened within 20 seconds and a rear section that is accessible via forward sliding and folding front seats.
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