- 2015 Elise gets sleeker and more sophisticated. - Price set to rise to around £40,000. - 316bhp supercharged Toyota engine.
Yes, you are looking at the new Lotus Elise, which by 2015 will have become distinctly more supercar-like. Still, as Lotus's primary sportscar, the Elise will maintain the original 'performance through lightweight' mantra... well, sort of - this show car has a mighty 316bhp from a four-cylinder engine. It's likely that less powerful versions will underpin the range.
What's all the fuss about?
It's all very well introducing new sports- and supercars and making them sleek, sexy and exotic. The Elise, on the other hand, is all about a pure, light driving experience - so this new, high-fat version seems quite controversial. However, it will weigh only just over a tonne thanks to an aluminium chassis.
Anything that stands out?
The interior has a much more sophisticated look than the current car, and will be easier to get in and out of because the door sill is slimmer. Comfort will be improved too, but apparently not at the expense of dynamics: Lotus says it will give "a proper introduction to the Lotus driving experience." Start-stop technology is mooted, to keep emissions pegged, and a robotised manual gearbox will be available.
Estimated release date: Before 2015
Estimated cost: Around £40,000
