Toyota's premium brand Lexus launched its LC500 flagship convertible at the Los Angeles show.
This latest Lexus drop top is based on the coupe launched earlier.
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Bracing has been added to the structure, with optimal shaping and location to secure a high level of dynamic performance. The same V8 engine as in the coupe is used and the cabrio has neck heaters and a transparent wind deflector.The automatic folding hood mechanism stores the top beneath an integrated tonneau cover.
The soft top has a four layer construction and has been designed to retain the flowing roofline of the coupe, without the supporting frame being visible through the fabric. The fabric has been manufactured to ensure optimal tension, free from wrinkling and to provide good sound insulation.
Colour choices are offered for the exterior, soft top and interior to match the tastes and diverse lifestyles of LC customers. Interior details include a pattern of graduated quilting and perforations on the upper sections of the seats and the Lexus "L" emblem embossed on the headrests.
The opening and closing action of the soft top is carefully controlled, particularly at the start and finish, to convey a sense of quality and safety, Lexus said.
Movement of the roof and tonneau cover is synchronised and at claimed class-leading speed. The top can be raised or lowered at vehicle speed up to 31mph (50km/h). An animated display in the instrument panel shows progress.
The automaker designed a new body for the convertible to achieve the same rigidity and driving quality as the coupe
Precise design and location of the rear suspension tower brace was key to structural rigidity. The brace is made of light weight, die cast aluminium to minimise added weight while a performance damper ensures ride comfort. There is further under body bracing which makes use of magnesium and aluminium in its construction to obtain both that high rigidity and light weight.
The cabrio also has a sound generator that transmits engine intake sound through the dashboard and an exhaust valve to enhance engine note.
The car also has active noise control and new sound insulation and absorption.
Audio system setting change automatically when the top is up or down.
The so called Lexus Climate Concierge adapts heating and ventilation to roof raised or lowered, automatically controlling air conditioning, seat heaters, neck heaters and steering wheel heater.
UK pre-orders open online in December 2019, with customer deliveries set to commence from September 2020.
