REPORTS out of the US today suggest that Lexus is working on a version of its IS C convertible empowered by the 5.0 litre V8 and drivetrain of the IS F, targeting a 2011 launch.

Coming to Australia later this year as the IS 250C, Lexus’ convertible is already available overseas with the F-Sport package, which offers such enhancements as 19-inch forged alloy wheels, carbon ceramic brakes, sway bars, and a high-flow intake.

Where the IS C F-Sport package offers enhancements of a largely handling and styling approach, the IS F convertible (IS F C?  IS C F?) promises to take on the M3 cabriolet, in the same way its hardtop forebear is aimed at the M3 sedan.

Some weight-saving efforts may need to be applied, as the 2.5 litre V6-powered IS 250C weighs in at around 180kg heavier than the regular hardtop IS 250 sedan.

US auto mag Car & Driver believes the IS F convertible would also feature the same eight-speed fast-shifting automatic transmission of the hardtop.

Click here to read TMR’s road test review of the 2009 Lexus IS F.