Run to the Sun — Lexus IS 350C Custom

NWAPA

Imagine driving a very cool new car for a distance between 9 to 25 miles, getting out and then into another very cool car for another 9 to 25 mile leg and then repeating the same routine through 23 cars in a two day period.

NWAPA

Welcome to the 2010 NWAPA (Northwest Automotive Press Association) Run to the Sun held recently in western Washington.? After 23 cars and more than 450 miles of smiles, here are our quick impressions of the Lexus IS 350C.

When we think Lexus, we think smooth, quiet, luxurious and sedans or SUVs.? Did you know that Lexus also has a dark side?? The IS 350C convertible with a bunch of aftermarket goodies certainly puts a different face on this normally sedate brand. ?Starting with the good-looking IS 350C, priced at $43,940 (or $48,695 with climate controlled seats, navigation and park assist), Lexus tweaked this beautiful retractable hardtop with $12,245 in extras.? Special racing style brakes all around, a neat engine cover, a not so quiet exhaust system and performance intake started the process.? Then there were the high performance shocks, lowering springs, sway bar and 19-inch forged wheels to complete the package.? The result is not cheap, but you won?t be meeting anything like it at the local Sonic or In and Out drive ins.? The rear-drive IS is solid, with exceptional handling and acceleration definitely better than the 5.8-second 0 to 60 mph time of the stock version.

See the other 22 ?Run to the Sun? Cars here.

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