The Morning Call and Mcall.com's view

In neighborhoods where the lawns resemble carpeting and the houses rival the size of your favorite super store, you’ll find cars that are equally extravagant.

Like the surroundings they enhance, these cars beckon to you. They call to you with “come hither” styling, sizzling power and the promise of fast times. Any number of cars fit this description, from the Audi TT and Porsche Boxster to the Jaguar XK8. The question is: does the world need another one?

Lexus has had a coupe in its lineup since the marque’s inception — the SC400. It was never designed to be a convertible and Toyota, Lexus’ parent company, had a terrible time trying to make it into one after it was introduced. It never happened. So Toyota rectified the situation by designing the SC400’s replacement, the SC430, as a hardtop that retracts into the trunk ala Mercedes Benz SLK (or the classic Ford Skyliner for that matter.)

All you do is press a button. The rear-hinged trunk’s front edge flips open to swallow the aluminum-alloy roof. The trunk closes and an interior chime gives notice that the job is accomplished. Of course, any drop-top can give you thrills. How many can give bystanders thrills as well? This one stops people dead in their tracks when you drop the top.

Such novelty only enhances the vehicle’s joie de vie, something it has in spades.

Lexus credits the car’s incredible aura of indulgence to the French Riviera, where Lexus designers studied the elegance and class of the area. (Note to my editor: I think to verify this, we need a research trip to the Riviera.)

It works in a strange way, the way a pair of clunky designer eyeglass frames do. There’s an arresting, distinctive presence, something that can’t be said of all Lexus designs. It’s especially true with the roof raised. The car does have somewhat odd proportions that you’ll love or hate. Lower the roof and the design is much more appealing.

(Note to Larry: Since we can’t afford the Riviera, how about Hellertown? Your editor.)

I took the car to the annual British Car Show in Hellertown. Surely this would test the appeal of the car’s chunky, flowing lines. In a field full of gorgeous, classic British roadsters, this one managed to turn most heads. And unlike the Brits’ vehicles, the electricals worked.

Like the Brits, Lexus knows how to turn out a luxurious cabin.

Let’s just get this out of the way: the interior is beautiful, one of the best in a production car.

The dash reeks of quality and luxury, with a choice of maple or walnut veneer. Its shape recalls Jaguar more than other Lexi. Large gauges are easily visible through the steering wheel which is itself fat, easy to grip and just the right size. The center stack is deceptively simple, hiding a complexity that will endear itself to the most dedicated hedonist.

The center stack features a navigation system hidden behind a power door . Although the screen tilts to prevent daylight from washing out the information on the screen, it still does. Another door hides the awesome Mark Levinson audio system (aka high-end) that is remarkable in its ability to accurately reproduce sound with such clarity in a convertible. Even the coin holder is hidden behind a door that flips up at the touch of a button.

The bucket seats are perfect: comfortable and supportive while allowing for a perfect driving position. Sumptuous leather lines the cabin, imparting its intoxicating aroma.

But if it’s intoxication you want, just drive it.

An all-aluminum double-overhead-cam 4.3-liter V-8 resides under the hood. With a healthy 300 horsepower coupled to an electronically controlled five-speed automatic, this coupe is good for a 5.9-second 0-60. The engine achieves such good performance results with the help of variable-valve intake timing and a newly developed electronic throttle control.

The car has nice balance, delivering comfort along with a healthy dollop of performance. While not as hard-edged a BMW, it’s not soft either. Most will find it just right. Speed comes on quickly, and the transmission always seems to be in the correct gear. Steering is quick and nicely weighted. Ride is about what you’d expect for a Lexus touring car.

Luggage space is bad, even for a convertible. With the top up, there’s a usable but uneven-floored trunk. Retract the top and your cargo space vanishes, except for a small sliver big enough for a hat or small briefcase. The spare tire takes up the rest of the room. Run flat tires are available as an option, eliminating the spare while adding trunk space. This seems worthwhile.

The only real glitch was the tire pressure sensors. Each wheel has one, and when tire pressure is lost, a light activates. When one tire had a tire pressure 3 pounds lower than the others, it set off the sensor. Unlike a similar system in the Chevrolet Corvette (which tells the actual tire pressure at each wheel) this light is just that, a light without explanation. It necessitated a trip to the dealer. If you want the car, you’ll have to watch this.

But you’ll be watching it anyway, for this lovely, chunky buggy does everything well. It is an adept mix of handling and insulation. Its accoutrements are rich, its styling cutting edge. It promises everything you’d might expect. Just pack lightly.

Oh yes, and stay off the lawn.

LEXUS SC430
Engine:4.3-liter DOHC V-8
Transmission: 5-speed automatic
Tires: P225/60R16
Wheelbase: 103.1 inches
Length: 177.8 inches
Width: 72 inches
Weight: 3,840 pounds
Cargo volume: 8.8 cubic feet
Top speed: 156 mph
EPA rating: 18 city, 23 highway
Test mileage: 19 mpg
Fuel type: Premium