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The all new Lexus IS300C was unveiled by Ebrahim K Kanoo offering unique performance and safety to the kingdom's sports car fans.
The company is the sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus in Bahrain, and the launch event took place at the Lexus Showroom in Sitra.
Ismail H Akbar, executive general manager of sales, said: "The launch of the all new convertible Lexus IS300C comes as the right response from Lexus to all sports car lovers in Bahrain, with the unique performance and luxury features it has and for the safety measures it is equipped with."
The special feature of the IS300C is the Power Retractable Hardtop where the lightweight hard aluminum roof opens and closes with the operation of a single switch in just 20 seconds. This feature allows the driver to choose between two styles of driving - the sporty nature of a coupe and the elegant freedom of a convertible.
In addition, the hardtop interlinks with the Lexus park assist system, which detects obstacles near the vehicle, to help assure safety during opening and closing.
The Lexus IS300C also features the advanced Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) systems which are designed to deliver stability and control while maintaining the vehicle's optimal position in various driving conditions. Leading edge intelligent systems do their work to take the burden of driving off the driver, as features such as Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM), Bi-HID headlamps, intelligent Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) and wide-angle rear view monitor create a sense of total command on the road and peace of mind.
The new model comes with a combination of new technologies and luxurious spacious interior.
Ayman Shehadeh, Toyota/Lexus brand manager, said: "We are proud today of Lexus' achievement in this segment which is very vital in the region. I am totally confident that the new IS300C will be the benchmark in its class and will add substantially to the brand image."
Speaking of the impact of the global economic climate on the auto industry, Mr Shehadeh explained that the company has noticed a drop in the Bahrain market but is recovering.
He said: "Globally, Toyota is number one and even in Bahrain it has held the position for many years. We have noticed that sales have dropped but not overall, the market is growing back.
"Even with this situation we are keeping up with our quality and constant research and development.
"We are offering improved warranty, better prices while maintaining the quality of Toyota. We are also going to be releasing new models of Prado and Sequoia soon.
The IS300C comes with a powerful 3.0 litre V6 engine and a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission which uses artificial intelligence (AI-SHIFT), to automatically control the shift pattern based on estimates of both road conditions and driver intentions. The new engine also comes with VVT-I (variable valve timing with intelligence) for more power and better fuel economy, and it is designed to deliver optimal performance in a wide-range of driving conditions.
Additionally, as part of its pursuit of ideal safety performance, the IS300C's ability to maintain excellent strength during a collision from a variety of angles, regardless of whether the hardtop is open or closed, helps protect vehicle occupants. the IS300C also features a dual stage SRS driver airbag, dual stage SRS front passenger airbag, SRS knee airbags and large type SRS head and torso side airbags that expand the impact absorbing area to include occupants' heads.
The new model is priced at BD18,500.
For more details contact the Lexus Showroom on 17730730 or visit www.lexus.com.bh
