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Possible, but with more than just a traditional yearly refresh, it would need something significant.
Well they would update it half way thru the cycle. Like look at the GS for example... they gave it a new front end treatment... and... they also gave it... umm...
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It may be hard to tell from the picture, but what you're looking at, according to our sources, is a test mule for a Lexus IS convertible. Information accompanying the spy shot suggests that the car is destined for production by the end of 2009 and will feature the full range of engines available in the Lexus IS sedan, from the 177-hp European diesel 220d to the 423-hp IS-F (!).
If the information is correct, the IS cabrio would be the first body style derivative of the Lexus sports sedan since the previous generation model spawned the SportCross wagon, and would slot in the Lexus line-up under the SC 430 convertible and, if built, the LF-A Roadster. However, as one forum member pointed out, by 2009 the IS sedan would be entering its fifth year of production and itself be due for replacement soon thereafter. Thanks for the tip, Kevin!
I think this lexus line is one of the best looking 4 dr "sporty" models available (I still cant get over how bad the 4dr infinity g looks compared to the 2dr) bit I think that the coup would definitely bring more attention to the IS line than a convertible.
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I see no point for a convertible unless they are releasing a coupe at the same time.
Why not release a coupe if you've already "coupefied" the sedan to make it a convertible. It would sell way more and make the IS more competitive with the 3serises.
Maybe it's my eyes playing tricks on me but the wheelbase in that picture seems shorter than that of a sedan, wouldn't they be the same if it's the same platform?
I see no point for a convertible unless they are releasing a coupe at the same time.
Why not release a coupe if you've already "coupefied" the sedan to make it a convertible. It would sell way more and make the IS more competitive with the 3serises.
Maybe it's my eyes playing tricks on me but the wheelbase in that picture seems shorter than that of a sedan, wouldn't they be the same if it's the same platform?
This just doesn't make sense.
Exactly! Why not come up with the coupe first and get it over with already. C'mon Lexus, you're gonna miss the boat.
I see no point for a convertible unless they are releasing a coupe at the same time.
Why not release a coupe if you've already "coupefied" the sedan to make it a convertible. It would sell way more and make the IS more competitive with the 3-Series.
Quote:
Originally Posted by gbb357
Exactly! Why not come up with the coupe first and get it over with already. C'mon Lexus, you're gonna miss the boat.
An interesting, related note. In spite of their "hit-and-miss" nature, every year I post the Automotive News predictions for the Lexus IS, and the Lexus line in general, on our site's Front Page. Here's what they predicted back in August 2007:
"A coupe will be added in mid-2008 as a 2009 model. But the convertible has been pushed back to the summer of 2009 because the plan now is to engineer a hardtop convertible instead of a ragtop."
Barring an unexpected surprise at one of this year's remaining major auto shows, I'd say they really missed the boat as far as the coupe prediction.
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It would be for those who has been waiting for a hardtop convertible, does nothing for the sedan.
If the 2nd gen IS sedan is in fact in the middle of a 8 year cycle, it will need a noticeable face lift to keep up with all the changes the competition is making.
To me the proportions in this picture don't seem right, the rear overhand is way too long/tall/bulky and the wheel base looks short. My guess would be it's some photochop or a test mule for the next gen SC which can't get here soon enough.
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