Lotus is already looking to welcome 2008 with a bang, by announcing some tasty upgrades to both the Elise and Exige models.
Heading the line-up is the most powerful production version of the Elise ever, the supercharged SC with 217bhp. The Elise’s engine uses smaller supercharger internals than the Exige S, and doesn’t have an intercooler, which saves 8kg over its hard-top sibling. Expect 0-60 in 4.4 seconds, a top speed of 150mph, and a very green-friendly 31mpg.
This new variant is ably assisted by a new performance pack for the Exige which hikes power to 237bhp. Also included is uprated brakes and pads, variable traction control from the 2-eleven, an uprated clutch and a launch control system. Performance-wise, the upgrades allow the Exige to shoot to 60 in 4 seconds, topping out at 153mph, while still returning 31mpg. Honest.
Lotus has also been busy improving the safety and security credentials of its cars, by making driver and passenger airbags standard on all models, and creating a bespoke, integrated alarm and immobiliser system. New cars also feature improved instruments. I
n response to customer demand, the four option packs have been amalgamated into two for each car, simplifying the speccing up of your new toy.
The ’08 cars are available to order now.
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