2011 lotus exige
After a nine-month hiatus, our spy photographers have once again caught up with Lotus’ mysterious Exige prototype.
The current Lotus Exige is available with a few variations of Toyota’s 1.8L four-cylinder, with the most powerful version putting out 243 horsepower. To go along with that added power, expect the next-generation Exige to feature adequate chassis and suspension upgrades. Judging by the latest shots, the next Lotus Exige will grow in length and track.
The prototype caught testing featured widened wheel arches and increased cooling. The Toyota-sourced V6 engine used in the Evora delivers a total of 276bhp and 258lb.-ft. or torque, more than even the top version Exige S that delivers a total of 257bhp and 174lb ft. The spy images also suggest that the Lotus Exige might be built on a longer wheelbase.
Key change over the previous entry-level Elise is the fitment of a 1.6-litre, Toyota-sourced engine in place of the old 1.8-litre one. Peak power stays the same with 134bhp at 6,700rpm, but torque drops a bit to 118lb.ft at 4,400rpm. You’ll need a bit more than the £27,450 list price for your perfect Elise, as the Touring Pack costs £2,000 but includes the excellent ProBax seats, leather door and centre console trim, carpet mats, noise insulation panelling, auxiliary driving lights and iPod connection.
The 1.6-litre engine needs working a bit harder than its 1.8-litre predecessor, but that’s part of its appeal. The six-speed transmission shifts with more precision than the old five-speed gearbox thanks to a firmer placement and slicker cable linkages.