The new IS250C isn't pretty in the conventional sense of the word, even though it's spawned from arguably the most attractive model in the Lexus line-up today.
But the IS250C is still desirable, judging by the keen interest from buyers.
More than 60 orders were placed and five cars delivered in the run-up to the local launch.
It looks like Lexusland is unaffected by the recession our island is said to be in.
A fair number of these early birds are said to be existing IS250 owners upgrading.
Is it a complete upgrade, though?
They get more wind in their hair, but also less wind in the sails, with the convertible significantly heavier than the saloon and consequently slower.
They enjoy more so-called personal motoring, but it's more impractical at the same time, with the back-seat and boot a lot more cramped than the 4-door's.
Last but not least, these eager beaver upgraders are actually downgrading the quality of their driving experience.
Of course, tooling around town with the roof down is an enjoyable experience that eludes most motorists (in more ways than one).
It's like the difference between resting in your cabin on board a cruise liner and relaxing on the open deck with a nice sea breeze blowing, even nicer bikini babes frolicking in the pool and the Beach Boys' Kokomo playing.
It's definitely more fun driving "topless".
David Ting is the deputy editor of Torque magazine by SPH Magazines.
Get a copy of the August 2009 issue of Torque to read about the latest cars and the greatest car features.
Torque, published by SPH Magazines, is available at all newsstands now.
Also, check out the August 2009 issue for these stories:
C+C Music Factory The new Peugeot 308CC is gonna make you sweat, but only if you wish to Current Affair It's not quite a Debbie Gibsonian electric youth, but the battery-powered i-Miev really is the future Software Upgrade Like computer software, the third generation Toyota Prius is just good enough to make you want one
