Lexus SC 430 Review

2009 Lexus SC 430 2dr Convertible

Shortly after the launch of the Lexus brand in the early '90s, this luxury automaker introduced its SC coupe. The original SC was initially available with a six- (SC 300) or eight- (SC 400) cylinder engine. But even with the debut of these sporty coupes, Lexus still lacked a convertible model. That gap in the model line was filled with the Lexus SC 430. The SC 430 luxury convertible was one of the first modern production vehicles to popularize a retractable hardtop design.

Viewed as a luxury car first and a sporty convertible second, the Lexus SC 430 fares reasonably well. But if you're looking for a convertible sports car with sharp handling and aggressive performance, most of the offerings from German's luxury automakers will serve you better.

Current Lexus SC 430

The current Lexus SC 430 has carried on virtually unchanged since its debut for the 2002 model year. On paper, a V8-powered hardtop convertible might seem like a real sports car, but in actuality the SC 430 is primarily a luxury tourer that's packed with amenities. The one-touch power-folding hardtop makes the car ideal for all-season use. It also provides better security and noise reduction than a traditional fabric top.

Despite a 288-horsepower V8 and somewhat sporty suspension, blistering acceleration and razor-sharp handling aren't a part of the SC's pedigree. Sixty mph comes up in a respectable 5.8 seconds. Still, the car is long on luxury and features genuine wood trim, 10-way power heated seats, a navigation system, 18-inch wheels, adaptive HID headlights, wireless cell phone connectivity and automatic climate control. In fact, the list of standard equipment is so thorough that the SC 430 only comes in one trim level.

But the SC 430 luxury coupe has its drawbacks. The rear seats are essentially useless and the car has a serious lack of cargo space. Finally, the car makes an obvious performance sacrifice in the name of comfort. The suspension soaks up bumps like a new sponge but the drive isn't very entertaining.

Past Lexus SC 430 models

Only minor changes have occurred since the Lexus SC 430's introduction. In 2003, the SC 430 carried over with no changes except the addition of first-generation Lexus Link. This analog satellite communication service will only be supported by Lexus until the end of 2007. In 2004, Lexus introduced a Pebble Beach package that included Azure Pearl exterior paint, black bird's eye maple interior trim, run-flat tires, a rear spoiler and a black leather golf bag. This special package carries through to the current SC 430.

2005 saw the addition of optional all-season run-flat tires and revised shocks for a smoother ride. A new six-speed automatic transmission and adaptive headlights showed up in 2006, a year that also featured updated exterior styling, wheels and taillamps. Inside, the SC luxury coupe received a new gauge cluster, shift plate and revised trim. For the current SC 430, Lexus added driver and passenger knee airbags and a front passenger seat occupant sensor for airbag deactivation.

Previous to the SC 430, Lexus offered the SC 300 and SC 400 coupes. They were sold from 1992-2000.

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* Edmunds.com maintains vehicle data as far back as 1990.