2009 Lexus SC Convertible

What Changed for 2009:

• Turn signals incorporated into side mirrors
• Opaline Pearl replaces Twilight Amethyst in color palette
• New switch to open/close roof
• Pebble Beach special edition (only 300 units available)

Overview
The original Lexus SC was a 2-door sports sedan, but the model evolved into a smaller, sports car-style vehicle with a power-retracting hardtop that folds itself into the trunk to transform the car into a convertible. For 2009, the SC undergoes modest changes, but will be offered in a limited-run Pebble Beach special edition.

Model Lineup
The 2009 Lexus SC 430 is available in a single trim, although consumers may opt for the limited-edition Pebble Beach version, of which only 300 will be produced. The Pebble Beach edition includes unique 18-inch wheels, rear spoiler, Ecru seats with black stitching and black armrest, black bird’s-eye maple wood trim, illuminated scuff plates, black floor mats and Mercury Metallic exterior paint.

The standard SC 430 comes with a V-8 engine and automatic transmission; 18-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels; leather seating; wood accents; automatic climate control; heated outside mirrors; one-touch retractable hardtop; dual chrome exhaust; navigation system; remote keyless entry; traction and stability control; 4-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock braking system (ABS); and power windows, seats and locks.

Powertrain
The 2009 Lexus SC 430 is powered by a 4.3-liter, 32-valve, 4-cam V-8 engine with variable valve timing with intelligence (VVT-i) that pumps out 288 hp at 5600 rpm and 317 lb.-ft. of torque at 3400 rpm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with sequential shift capability. Stability and traction control are standard, as are 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and sport-tuned suspension. EPA fuel-economy estimates for the V-8 engine are 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway, classifying the engine as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II).

Safety
The 2009 Lexus SC 430 is equipped with dual front air bags and front knee air bags for driver and front-seat passenger, along with side air bags. Stability and traction control, 4-wheel disc brakes with ABS and brake assist and vehicle skid control are standard. Additional safety features include run-flat tires; 3-point seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters; direct tire-pressure-monitoring system; theft-deterrent system; and daytime running lights.

As of this writing, the 2009 Lexus SC 430 has not been crash tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Technology
Technology features of note on the 2009 Lexus SC 430 Roadster include a Mark Levinson premium audio system with sound levelizer, single-feed, 6-disc CD changer, 9 speakers and 240 watts of maximum power. In addition, all SC 430 models for 2009 feature a voice-activated navigation system with Bluetooth connectivity.

The one-touch retractable hardtop makes going from closed-roof roadster to open-top convertible a simple operation, according to Lexus. No latches, snaps or covers are required as the top smoothly folds into the trunk automatically.