Faizal Rajie’s 2010 Lexus IS250C Build in Cape Town, South Africa

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Faizal Rajie

2010 Lexus is250C 

Instagram: @mr_lexus007

Photographer: Darren Nieuwoudt 

Instagram:  @Incogmedia

Performance Stats: 2.5 litre V6

My Journey with the Lexus IS250C

I’m Faizal Rajie, and I live in Cape Town, South Africa, where I work in the IT department of a petroleum company. My greatest joy comes from sharing my car with people in communities all around Cape Town. My love for cars started with my dad. He was always into cars and taught me something I’ve carried with me: “Look after your car, and it will look after you.” That stuck with me. It’s why I make it a point to remind youngsters to avoid reckless driving.

“Speed kills. I always encourage people to drive safely and to appreciate their cars instead of just focusing on how fast they can go.”

Buying and Building the Lexus

I bought my 2010 Lexus IS250C back in 2016. When I got it, I didn’t have any particular plan or vision for what I wanted to do with it. Over time, things just started happening, and even now, the journey continues.

Changes Over the Years

Here are some of the upgrades I’ve made so far:

• 3IS Bumper Upgrade (2018): This was one of the first major exterior changes I did.

• 4IS Bumper Upgrade (2024): The latest addition to keep the car fresh.

• 19-Inch ISF Rims: These rims give the car a bold and clean look.

• H&R Drop: The car sits 45mm lower now, with 20mm spacers on the rear wheels and 10mm spacers in the front.

• Exhaust System: I upgraded to a 60mm exhaust and added an electronic remote-controlled valve opener. It sounds amazing.

• Interior Customization:

• I had the stitching on all the seats changed from white to red.

• I added a flat-bottom steering wheel for a sportier feel.

• Custom floor mats were imported to give the car a personal touch.

• Engine Bay: The engine covers were sprayed with a color flip, which really stands out at shows.

Why I Love the Lexus

My motto is simple: Dare to be different. It’s rare to see a Lexus at most car events in South Africa, and that’s what makes it special.

“I enjoy cruising with the top down. Once, someone at an intersection asked me how fast the car goes. I replied, ‘If I drive fast, I won’t enjoy it, and you won’t get to see the beauty of the car.’ That’s just how I see it.”

Who Helped Bring My Vision to Life

A lot of people helped make my dream a reality.

• Spray-Work: Ziggy at SSABR in Retreat, Cape Town, did all the spray work on the car.

• Interior and Accessories: Some parts, like the puddle lights, pedals, and car covers, were imported from China. Unfortunately, I don’t remember the name of the guy who worked on the seats and steering wheel, but he did an excellent job.

What’s Next?

For now, I don’t have any big plans for the car. I just want to enjoy it the way it is.

Shoutouts

I’d like to give a shoutout to the following people and groups who’ve been part of my journey:

• Lexus Owners South Africa

• @SSABR

• @Obsession SA

My Dream Car

If I had to pick my ultimate dream car, it would be the Lexus LC500 Coupe or Convertible. That car is on another level!

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