Lexus LC convertible likely

Lexus has given the strongest hint yet that it new LC coupe will eventually be built in convertible form.

While pulling up short of actually confirming the project, Lexus management admitted that the roadster market is an important one in the LC's market segment.

During the local launch of the LC500 and LC500h this week, Lexus' LC-project assistant chief engineer, Takashi Watanabe, confirmed that the LC's platform would theoretically support a convertible layout.

Lexus Australia's chief executive, Peter McGregor, was a little more coy, but stressed that "We are very aware of the importance of the convertible sector of this market."

Pressed further, McGregor said that the LC platform would form the basis of any forthcoming Lexus front-engined, rear-wheel-drive models, while the smart money says that would be the foundation of any Lexus-badged high-end convertible.

McGregor also admitted that "It's been a while between convertibles for us".

He's right, too, the only previous Lexus drop-tops have amounted to the IS250C from 2009 and the SC430 from way back in 2001.

But McGregor admitted that even if the topless version of the LC coupe did happen, it would be very unlikely to be a volume model of any sort.

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