You know there's global concern about fuel prices and global warming when a maker like Lotus starts to highlight the eco benefits of it's latest models. The pocket-rocket maker has just released it's new look 2011 models which have undergone a facelift – more evolution than revolution.
Highlights of the makeover include a new high-performance 1.6 litre engine for Elise – sourced from Toyota – and a new six-speed close-ration gearbox. The body design now includes integrated headlights and daytime LEDs. Both Elise and Exige have been upgraded.
Improved aerodynamics see Elise now having economy of 6.1 litres/100 km - which is impressive for a car that will blow away most others in this price range off the mark - and if you need help controlling your speed, cruise control is now available in Elise. The Elise S is no longer with the entry-level Lotus model now simply carrying the Elise moniker, bringing it into line with other Lotus product naming. The new Elise records a combined economy of 6.1Litres /100 km a reduction of 16 per cent compared to Elise S, and also falling under the 7.0 litres/100 km barrier, making the car immune from luxury car tax.
201 
The new Elise offers 0-100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, and for the first time offers a six speed, close-ratio transmission. The new engine is Toyota's 1598 cc 1ZR-FAE model using variable valve lift technology. Maximum power of 100 kW is delivered at 6800 rpm while maximum torque of 160 Nm is reached at 4400 rpm – some 3000 rpm before hitting the red line. This engine is 200cc smaller that the one it replaces. Lotus claim the Elise now has the lowest CO2 emissions of any petrol-powered high-performance sports car.
All Elise models have three up-shift lights on the binnacle that illuminate cumulatively as you approach the engine rev limit: if you light up all three it's time to go up a cog. Because of the taller engine the height of the engine cover has been raised by 34mm. Forced to re-design the cover Lotus took the opportunity to to subtly re-design the rear engine cover to match design cues from the car's front and rear. The new Elise SC in supercharged for will arrive in showrooms in early July, 2010, followed soon after by the new Elise.
The updated Elise joins the recently upgraded Lotus Exige in a number of variants. The 2010 Exige S has been joined by the limited edition Scura and Type 72. The motor sport and race track-ready Cup 260 is the ultimate Lotus. Lotus has extended its warranty to three years and 60,000 km.
2011 LOTUS ELISE RANGE
Model
Elise 1.6 litre 100 kW/160Nm (0-100 km/h 6.5 sec)
Elise R 1.8 litre 141 kW/181 Nm (0-100 km/h 5.4 sec)
Elise SC 1.8 litre supercharged 162 kW/ 210Nm ( 0-100 km/h 4.6 sec)
Pricing* for the Elise will start from $69,990 (*Not including dealer delivery charges or statutory on road costs) |
Print Article
Submit Feedback
Email This Article
