| Updated model range | 2008 Geneva Motor Show | Lotus Europa |

The Europa, once anticipated to make the Lotus brand more accessible to the masses, but never quite managing that goal, is to receive a welcome update for 2008 exclusively across Europe, with a greater focus on comfort and performance.

Debuting at the Geneva International Motor Show this week, an all-new SE specification will be added to the range, incorporating a more pleasing interior made up of four hides of new leather. On the driving front, the SE will gain wider tyres wrapped around new lightweight alloys, whilst the standard 2.0-litre turbocharged engine has had its power upped from the original 197bhp to a heftier 223bhp, along with a 21lb.ft increase in torque taking the overall twist figure to 221lb.ft. Lotus claims an improved 0-60mph time of 5.5 seconds with the top speed unchanged at 143mph.

One of the biggest drawbacks of the Europa however, was its price. Lotus is planning to sell the new entry-level Europa at £27,950 with the SE version costing £32,995, which translates into something of a saving over the original two-seater, yet is still within Porsche-Audi-BMW territory.

Only time will tell, but we'll give you the full verdict before the new car's launch in June.

Kyle Molyneux - 9 Mar 2008