Adding a healthy measure of enthusiast edge to its basic luxury drop-top mix, the 2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition will go on sale later this month. Only 175 examples of this limited-production variation on the IS 350 Convertible theme will be produced, all finished in either Starfire Pearl or Obsidian paint and matching a comprehensive selection of F Sport suspension upgrades with unique cosmetic touches.

Although its powertrain components remain unchanged, the 2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition's handling acuity is markedly sharpened thanks to special Bilstein shock absorbers, stiffer, shorter springs that lower ride height by half an inch and stouter front/rear anti-roll bars that match well with a custom wheel/tire combination that pairs lightweight 19-inch dark-graphite forged alloys with Z-rated Michelin Pilot Sport 225/35 performance tires.
 
Inside, the 2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition gets seats trimmed in black and red semi-aniline leather with red accent stitching and carries a "Special Build 2011" badge on the center console. Other upgrades include the HDD Navigation system that also includes Bluetooth, a rear backup camera, Lexus Enform telematics and XM Satellite Radio with real-time Nav Traffic/NavWeather as well as heated/ventilated front seats and wood accent trim.  As a finishing touch, the car has HID headlamps with LED running lights. Pricing for the 2011 Lexus IS 350C F Sport Special Edition will start at $55,995.