What's the news?

Caterham's upcoming entry-level Seven is to get its power from a turbocharged, 660cc, three-cylinder Suzuki engine, which is designed to keep entertainment levels high and weight low.

The new motor is the smallest engine ever installed in a Seven and has been paired with a five-speed Suzuki gearbox, both of which have been modified by Caterham Technology and Innovation (CTI). The powertrain specialists at CTI have managed to improve both fuel economy and emissions over the standard engine, while still retaining a unit that will deliver "strong performance".

"Suzuki is a leader in producing compact vehicles with extremely efficient engines," said Graham Macdonald, CEO of Caterham Cars. "It is not engine size that matters, it is the grin factor that is our barometer and we believe we have got the formula for our new entry-level vehicle just right."

Thanks to the new engine, a reengineered chassis and a suspension overhaul, Caterham reckons that the new entry-level model is the lightest and most efficient Seven to date. The new car should also be able to be enjoyed by many, as prices will start from less than £17,000.

Anything else?

Macdonald concludes by saying, "For a sports car at this price point, it delivers on many fronts. We cannot wait to open the order book."

This order book is scheduled to open in the autumn with first deliveries expected before the end of the year.