Lexus planning IS-F Convertible

Lexus is said to be planning a performance version of their strong selling IS-C Convertible, scheduled for a launch in 2011.

The car will use the same 5.0 litre V8 from the IS-F saloon, which produces 416bhp. Performance will be slightly blunted though, as the convertible weighs more than the sedan. The saloon's eight-speed automatic transmission will also be carried over.

The move signals Lexus' attempts to go against the BMW M3, which is available in both saloon and convertible form as well, although there is no word yet on a coupe version of the IS.