The hardcore Lotus Exige is back at last. European sales ceased when the 1.8-litre Toyota engine no longer complied with emissions regulations. The new Exige S is clean enough to fit the bill, and it has a range of updates and V6 power shared with the Evora S.
Weighing just 1,080kg the Exige S should not be short of performance thanks to the 345bhp, 3.5-litre V6. Figures have yet to be released, but it is estimated that 0-100mph will take less than eight seconds. Lotus describes it as offering 'raw performance, mind blowing agility and unparalleled ride and handling'.
The six-cylinder Exige can be identified by a new front splitter and rear spoiler. The S is also larger than its four-cylinder predecessor and is intended to bridge the gap between the current range and the five new models due from Lotus in 2013.
Official fuel consumption and CO2 emissions will be released later this month. The Exige S is expected to cost more than £40,000 when it goes on sale towards the end of the year.
John Lambert - 20 Sep 2011