Lexus proved with the old SC that while they can make a proper hardtop convertible, they lack the necessary vision and taste to make it desirable and fun. That car was followed by the IS C, which continues to offer the same soulless blend of quality, value, and good feature, with no panache and pizzazz whatsoever.

And it is the same story with the latest iteration. The 2014 Lexus IS Convertible is hardly changed at all in terms of styling and performance, but it now comes with an optional F SPORT package, which will hopefully make a difference in the way it feels – which is the same sort of feeling you would get ifyou could drive a open-top refrigerator.

The F Sport kit for the 2014 Lexus IS Convertible includes sport-tuned suspension, F SPORT 18-inch wheels with dark superchrome finish; upper and lower grille insert; F SPORT steering wheel and F SPORT heated and ventilated front seats; front lip spoiler; aluminum sport pedals; silver metallic interior trim; aluminum scuff plates, and F SPORT badging.

The rest of the car is the same as before. You have the choice of either a 2.5-liter V6 engine with 204 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque, or a 3.5-liter V6 with 306 horsepower and 277 lb.-ft. of torque. The body of the car is very rigid and strong, which means it is very safe. It also means it is very heavy. What’s more, Lexus has smothered the car with electronic overlords. You get Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System (VDIM) that interfaces with the electronic throttle control system and governs all of the vehicle’s dynamic handling systems – the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC).

The hard top on the 2014 Lexus IS Convertible opens and closes in 20 seconds. The coupe’s retractable hardtop disappears beneath a locking panel, with no need for the driver to secure a tonneau cover or hold-down snaps. It is a clever car, but in every imaginable way, you are way better off with an E93 BMW 335is Convertible.