The Lexus LF-C concept car will be making its European debut at the Paris Motor Show. The vehicle is the third in a series of concept studies that have been created to express a new Lexus design rationale, following on from the LF-S and LF-X models presented in Tokyo last year.

The LF-C showcases elements of styling and technology that are anticipated in the next generation Lexus IS model. The car is constructed on a rear-wheel drive platform with a front-mounted V8 engine. The principle feature of the body is a retractable hard top that can be moved through four different positions. This unique element, the work of the Calty Design Centre in California, allows the car to be changed from a coupe to a convertible with targa and speedster configurations in between.

The roof is fully automatic, controlled by the touch of a button, and stows neatly away through a surprisingly narrow opening in the boot.