Lotus Exige Review, Specs & Performance

Overview of the Lotus Exige

Engines and performance for the Lotus Exige

The entry-level Lotus Exige is the Sport 350 and it delivers outstanding performance levels, including a 0 to 62 mph sprint time of just 3.7 seconds. The car has a top speed of 170 mph. Most of its performance is down to the total weight being just 1,125 kg. The supercharged 3.5 litre V6 engine, sourced from Toyota, produces 345 bhp, which is mated to an exposed manual gearshift that performs well. Other Exige models have more powerful outputs from the engine with the Sport 430 doing the sprint time in just 3.2 seconds.

Equipment and handling

There's a lot to like about the Lotus Exige which is almost an old school creation; the cabin is not the quietest but this adds to the charm and the exhaust note delivers a great soundtrack. The exterior design impresses with an aggressive stance and the giant spoiler helps to deliver performance - and head turning looks! Since Lotus aims to make lightweight cars, there's not much in the way of standard equipment but drivers can add items from the options list. However, let's be honest, most people will be driving the Exige to experience a phenomenal and agile performance, which is great on winding country roads with excellent levels of grip. Some may find that long motorway journeys may not be the most comfortable - and while the car has precise steering, it's not the easiest to drive around town. These are minor niggles when the Lotus Exige is - hands down - one of the best performing sports cars that enthusiasts will get behind the wheel of. It's also a fairly economical car to run with fuel consumption being around 31 mpg. The interior has comfortable seats and there is an exposed aluminium frame to enjoy. And with the engine directly behind the driver's head, you will feel involved in whatever action you decide to undertake behind the wheel. Essentially, the Lotus Exige is the ideal car for any sports car enthusiast and for those who want to enjoy a brilliant track day racer - there's an excellent mix of excitement and fun that few rivals at this price can match.

More information about the Lotus Exige

Why not have a look at the Exige on the official Lotus UK company website and get the latest news about it at The Lotus Owners Club.