NEW FOR 2008:
– Exterior colours: Golden Almond Metallic added; Chardonnay Pearl deleted; Smoky Granite Mica now exclusive to Pebble Beach Edition
For 2008, the Lexus SC 430 convertible coupe is unchanged, save for exterior colours. The price is also unchanged from 2007.
The SC 430 uses a 4.3-litre V8 with six-speed automatic transmission that includes manual mode. It has a retractable aluminum roof that goes up or down at the touch of a button, and its climate control has an "auto" setting for open-air motoring, which directs the air into two streams when the top is down and the outside temperature is cool.
It comes in a single trim line, which includes 18-inch aluminum wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, CD/cassette stereo with nine speakers, DVD-based navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free system, heated ten-way power leather seats, auto-dimming rearview mirror, power locks with keyless entry, maple or walnut wood trim, cruise control, power tilt and telescopic wheel, garage door opener, driver and passenger knee airbags, first-aid kit, anti-theft system, auto-dimming heated side mirrors, water-repellent door glass, rear spoiler, adaptive auto-levelling high intensity discharge headlights with washers, fog lamps, and variable intermittent wipers.
The sole available option is the $3,100 Pebble Beach package, which adds unique 18-inch aluminum wheels, Espresso bird’s-eye maple trim, fitted luggage, and unique badges and illuminated sill plates.
Technically, the SC 430 is a four-passenger vehicle, but the rear seat is very cramped, and it’s best to consider it a 2+2. That’s really a moot point anyway, as you’ll want it all to yourself. It’s a beautiful vehicle that offers quick acceleration and a smooth ride, and a roof that protects you from the elements in bad weather, and then disappears to let the sun shine in.
