The Lotus Elise and the Exige Final Editions may hold even more significance today in a world where cars continue to bulk up. Despite modest sales figures, Lotus is looking ahead to a new generation of high-performance combustion engine sports cars. The upcoming Type 131 model is poised to succeed the Elise/Exige duo and the more refined Evora. While the Evora will still be available as a GT edition in the U.S., Lotus is bidding farewell to the 25-year-old Elise and the 21-year-old Exige with a final flourish of five new models.
The Final Edition lineup introduces enhancements like a base Elise Sport 240 version with 240 horsepower, 10-spoke Anthracite lightweight forged alloy wheels, a modern TFT instrument cluster, premium Alcantara finishing throughout, and the iconic six-speed manual gearbox with exposed linkage. Priced at £45,500 in the U.K. and €56,500 in Germany, the range comprises variants such as the Elise Sport 240, Cup 250, and the Exige Sport 390, 420, and Exige Cup 430 models. Cost-wise, this aligns closely with a four-cylinder 718 Cayman.
Lotus Cars
The entry-level Elise, equipped with touring suspension, has seen little change in its formula since its inception in 1996. With over two decades of existence, the current iteration boasts a four-cylinder supercharged engine generating 240 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph sprint in 4.1 seconds and a top speed of 147 mph. The Elise Sport, known for its innovative extruded bonded aluminum chassis that also underpinned the original Tesla Roadster, weighs in at 2,052 pounds, while the Cup variant tips the scales at 2,032 pounds, or 1,979 pounds with optional carbon fiber panels, lithium-ion battery, and polycarbonate rear window.
Considering the track-oriented nature of the vehicle, Henry Catchpole from Carfection suggests that opting for the sport seat package would provide additional bolstering for tackling challenging corners with precision.
Expect further updates on the Elise, Exige, and the remarkable Evora throughout 2021 before their production bids adieu, all while Lotus Cars prepares to unveil the 1,973-horsepower Evija electric hypercar, collaborate with Alpine on a compact electric vehicle, introduce the anticipated Type 131 featuring a combustion engine, and launch an electric SUV intended to replicate the sales success of Aston Martin’s V8 DBX.
As advancements in lightweight engineering confront future global regulations, it’s evident that there will never be another sports car as fundamental and adaptable as the Elise, a petite yet exceptional offering from Lotus that has achieved perfection in its concluding year. For those in regions where it’s available, seizing this opportunity is highly recommended.
For other markets, the Evora, too, approaches its final chapter.
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