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Does Lexus have a hard top convertible?

No, Lexus does not currently offer a hard top convertible model in its lineup. Lexus is Toyota's luxury division, and the brand is known for its sedans, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles, but it has not produced a convertible with a retractable hard top.


Lexus Convertible Models


While Lexus does not have a hard top convertible, the brand has offered a few convertible models over the years, but they have all featured soft tops rather than retractable hard tops. The most recent Lexus convertible was the Lexus IS C, which was produced from 2009 to 2015. This was a mid-size luxury convertible based on the Lexus IS sedan. Prior to that, Lexus also offered the SC 430 convertible, which was produced from 2001 to 2010.


However, Lexus has not introduced a new convertible model since the discontinuation of the IS C in 2015. The brand's current lineup is focused on sedans, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles, with no plans announced for a future hard top convertible.


Why Doesn't Lexus Offer a Hard Top Convertible?


There are a few potential reasons why Lexus has not produced a hard top convertible model:



  • Market Demand: Convertible sales, in general, have declined in recent years as consumer preferences have shifted more towards SUVs and crossovers. Lexus may not see enough market demand to justify the investment in developing a hard top convertible model.

  • Engineering Challenges: Designing and engineering a retractable hard top convertible can be technically complex and expensive. The additional weight and complexity of the hard top mechanism may not align with Lexus' focus on luxury, comfort, and efficiency.

  • Positioning: Lexus positions itself as a premium luxury brand, and a hard top convertible may not fit as neatly into its current product lineup and brand image compared to its sedans, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles.


While Lexus does not currently offer a hard top convertible, the brand may revisit this segment in the future if market conditions and consumer preferences change. For now, Lexus appears to be concentrating its efforts on expanding its lineup of luxury sedans, SUVs, and hybrid vehicles.

Is a hardtop convertible worth it?


Hard-top convertibles are much more secure than their soft-top counterparts, which are an easy target for thieves. Cutting into a fabric roof with a knife offers instant access to a convertible's cabin, and the costs associated with a major top repair can be high.



What are the problems with hardtop convertibles?


Cons of a Hard-Top Convertible
Retractable hard-top convertibles almost always suffer a weight penalty versus their soft-top cousins. The extra mass is due not just to the roof panels themselves but also to the more complicated and robust mechanisms required to support the top while it is being folded out of sight.



Which convertible cars have hardtop?


They include:

  • BMW 4 Series.
  • Ferrari 488 Spider.
  • Ferrari Portofino.
  • McLaren 570S Spider.
  • Mazda MX-5 Miata RF.
  • Mercedes-Benz SL-Class.
  • Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class.



Why are hard top convertibles going away?


Folding hardtops are expensive and take up more cargo capacity (although Chevy's Camaro softtop design inexplicably takes up a ton too). Throw in a shift to more people buying practical CUVs and hardtop convertibles are no longer viable. Remaining convertibles need to be more cost effective and practical.



Is the Lexus LC 500 rare?


The Lexus LC 500 was first introduced in 2016, some four years after the original concept was created. After much anticipation, the car has become something of a rare beauty with approximately 1,200 (up to 2023) being sold in the US, which is fewer than 1% of total Lexus sales in the US during the same period.



Does Lexus make a hardtop convertible?


The IS250C and IS350C represent Lexus' second convertible and its first since the debut of the SC430 in 2001. Featuring a convenient single-switch operation, the new three-piece hard top provides open-air freedom with the top down without sacrificing the quiet and comfort of a coupe.



How much will the Lexus LC 500 convertible cost?


The price of the 2025 Lexus LC starts at $100,600 and goes up to $107,800 depending on the trim and options. The base trim level is the LC500 coupe, but there's also an LC500h hybrid and an LC500 convertible offered. We prefer the nonhybrid LC500 model over the heavier and pricier LC500h.



Can a hard top convertible go through a car wash?


Hard Top Convertibles
Hard tops structures are sturdier, and with better insulation. And because these vehicles are better insulated, there is no need to be concerned about water leaks seeping in while going through an automatic wash.



What does LC stand for in Lexus?


Lexus LC. LC stands for Luxury Coupé. That's because the car combines the luxuries of a flagship saloon with the seductive, sporting aesthetic of a grand touring coupé. This flagship two-plus-two is engineered in every dimension to deliver a very special and rewarding driving experience. Explore the LC.



Does the Lexus LC have a hard top?


With a shape designed to help aerodynamically tame the air around you and a lightweight, four-layer soft-top construction, the LC Convertible offers a quiet, comfortable ride. The soft top opens or closes in approximately 15 seconds at driving speeds of up to 30 mph and can be stored without impacting luggage capacity.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.