Is there a Lexus hardtop convertible?
Yes, Lexus does offer a hardtop convertible model in its lineup. The Lexus LC Convertible is the brand's flagship open-top sports car, combining Lexus' renowned luxury and performance in a sleek, retractable-roof design.
Lexus LC Convertible: Luxury and Performance in an Open-Top Design
The Lexus LC Convertible is the brand's first-ever production convertible model. Launched in 2020, the LC Convertible is based on the Lexus LC coupe, sharing its striking exterior design and high-performance powertrain options.
The LC Convertible features a power-folding hardtop roof that can retract in just 15 seconds, allowing drivers to quickly transition between open-air driving and a coupe-like enclosed cabin. The hardtop design provides a more refined and quieter driving experience compared to traditional soft-top convertibles.
Powertrain and Performance
The Lexus LC Convertible is available with two powertrain options:
- LC 500 Convertible: Features a 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 471 horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- LC 500h Convertible: Equipped with a hybrid powertrain that combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, delivering a total system output of 354 horsepower.
Both models offer impressive performance, with the V8-powered LC 500 Convertible capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.6 seconds. The hybrid LC 500h Convertible provides a balance of power and efficiency.
Luxury and Technology Features
As a Lexus, the LC Convertible is packed with premium features and advanced technologies. Key highlights include:
- Luxurious interior with high-quality materials and craftsmanship
- Intuitive infotainment system with a 10.3-inch display
- Comprehensive suite of advanced safety and driver assistance features
- Adaptive suspension and performance-tuned chassis for a dynamic driving experience
The Lexus LC Convertible offers a unique blend of open-air thrills, Lexus-level luxury, and high-performance capabilities, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a premium hardtop convertible experience.
Is the Lexus convertible a hardtop or soft top?
Sophisticated Retractable Hardtop Convertible
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.
Does anybody still make a hardtop convertible?
Yes, they still make hardtop convertibles, but the market has shrunk considerably, with the options now mostly limited to higher-end sports cars and some rugged off-road vehicles. Examples of currently available models include the Chevrolet Corvette (with a retractable hardtop), the Mazda MX-5 Miata RF (retractable fastback), the Porsche 911 Targa, and the Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco (with removable hardtops).
Current hardtop convertible options
- High-end sports cars: Many brands reserve this technology for their luxury or exotic models, such as the Chevrolet Corvette, Porsche 911 Targa, and models from Ferrari.
- Affordable options: The Mazda MX-5 RF is one of the few affordable hardtop convertibles, featuring a retractable fastback roof.
- Off-road vehicles: The Jeep Wrangler and Ford Bronco offer hardtop options that can be removed for open-air driving, though this often requires manual effort.
Why the market has shrunk
- Complexity and cost: Retractable hardtops are mechanically complex and add significant cost to a vehicle.
- Weight: They are heavier than soft tops, which can impact performance and fuel economy.
- Rise of SUVs: The popularity of SUVs and crossovers has led to fewer regular passenger car platforms being developed, making it less practical to engineer convertible versions.
- Improved soft tops: Modern soft tops are more secure, quieter, and can be raised and lowered just as quickly, diminishing some of the advantages of a retractable hardtop.
Which convertible car has a hard top?
Table of Contents
- Chevrolet Corvette.
- Mazda MX-5 Miata (Roadster)
- Porsche 718 Boxster.
- BMW Z4.
- Ford Mustang.
What Lexus models are convertibles?
The main convertible model Lexus currently produces is the LC 500 Convertible. In the past, Lexus has also offered other convertibles, such as the IS C (250C and 350C) and the SC 430.
Current model
- LC 500 Convertible: A V8-powered luxury convertible with a soft-top roof that can be opened or closed in about 15 seconds. It is a two-door grand touring car.
Past models
- IS 250C and 350C: These were convertible versions of the IS sedan, available in model years up to around 2014.
- SC 430: A retractable hardtop convertible that was in production for many years.
