Backed by advanced technology and high specification levels, the Lexus SC is a compact and stylish avant-garde sports model that blends build quality with refined, whisper-quiet performance. Thanks to an electrically retractable aluminium hardtop, the car combines coupe and convertible modes in one and has been designed with the aim of providing open-air driving pleasure without sacrificing Lexus’ standards. Operating the roof could hardly be simpler – it takes just the touch of a button to achieve open-top motoring in 25 seconds. A well-appointed interior offers travel in sumptuous comfort on heated seats with generous leg and headroom at the front, plus the convenience of an electrically-adjustable steering wheel.
Comprehensive standard equipment is a main feature of the Lexus SC 430 and the long list includes a full leather interior, a wood and leather steering wheel, power-operated driver and passenger seats with heating and memory function, a nine-speaker Mark Levinson hi-fi system and a six-disc in-dash CD autochanger. The DVD-based navigation system has touch-screen operation and also offers voice recognition for simple route programming. It also includes electronic traffic avoidance technology that constantly monitors real-time traffic information sources, warns of potential delays and re-routes to avoid hold-ups. Further convenience is offered by high intensity discharge headlamps, rain-sensing windscreen wipers and the use of a water-repellent coating to keep side windows clear in poor weather.
Exceptional active and passive safety protection makes good use of advanced technologies in the Lexus SC, which has four-sensor, four-channel anti-lock braking, electronic brake-force distribution, traction control, vehicle stability control and a brake assist system. Adaptive front lights turn in line with the car’s speed and steering angle, providing better illumination through bends at night and a tyre monitoring system warns the driver if pressure is lost. Other safety provisions include driver and front passenger airbags, front side airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters.
CO2 emissions are 269g/km.
Using the same 4.3-litre V8 engine as the Lexus LS 430, the Lexus SC develops 282bhp to provide effortless overtaking power. Standstill to 60mph acceleration takes just 6.4 seconds and the car’s top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. The six-speed automatic transmission uses ‘smart’ technology change ratio shift patterns according to road conditions and driving style to allow more comfortable progress by eliminating unnecessary upward changes when tackling gradients and automatically selecting lower gears when going downhill in order to optimise engine braking.
Available in just one trim level, the Lexus SC 430 costs £55,035.
