When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Also, with only 2 or 3 years left in the 2nd generation IS, I doubt Lexus would offer a coupe this late in the model life. 3rd generation, maybe.
I agree completely. We know it wouldn't be released as an '08, and it would be stupid for Lexus to introduce a coupe based on a sedan in its 4th year of production.
Its all a function of how many variations they can profitably squeeze out of the Gen 3 IS platform. I'm sure they are thinking of ways to sell the Gen 3 IS in higher volumes to re-coup the development costs faster. A coupe and or hardtop convertible IS makes sense.
Are you insane?! I doubt any hardtop convertible has ever been a money maker, and it would require MUCH more development cost.
Hardtop convertibles actually don't cost any more to build or develop than soft tops. The only reason automakers use soft tops nowadays are for looks or for weight.
Because they are in dire need of a coupe. If they want to beat German automakers, they need something that could compete in every class and IS Coupe is a good first step. Lexus is also trying to get more into performance cars since they already got the luxury division for those ages on lock. They already made their name in the luxury & reliability, although there are still some work to be done, they are still on the top.
Again why? Lexus already outsells BMW, Audi, Mercedes here in the states (there largest market) so what to be gained.
As for Europe.........50% or more of all the cars made and sold in Europe by BMW, Mercedes, Audi and so on are diesels........not 400 hp monsters the kids want here. Lexus is not stupid and know exactly what there doing.
Lexus in Europe is working now on making a better diesel not a 400 hp car for that market.
I was reading the Road & Track magazine for October at 24 hours fitness this morning. In there, they have picture of IS 2 doors hard top convertible and it will be launch for 09 model.