Photo Credit: CarandDriver.com

Lexus is planning to launch a convertible version of the IS F in early 2011. Seeking to improve overall driving experience and performance to better compete against the likes of Mercedes, BMW, and Audi, the IS F convertible will be powered by a 5.0 liter V-8 engine and a quick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission. It will be directly competing against the BMW M3 cabriolet and the new Mercedes E-class coupe. However, this new Lexus convertible will not replace the SC430, which will instead have a soft-top successor.