Lotus confirms it will bring Exige to the U.S

[BMWDave]

Lotus confirms it will bring Exige to the U.S. by early 2006
Posted Date: 9/1/05


Lotus Cars USA announced this week that it will begin importing the Elise's more aggressive twin brother, the Lotus Exige, to the U.S. early in the first quarter of 2006. While clearly related to the the Elise, the Exige is narrowly focused on taking the Elise's proven handling prowess to a higher level.

"Bringing the Exige to America allows us to reinforce our commitment to pure sports car enthusiasts," said John English, president and CEO of Lotus Cars USA. "The Exige is unique in its ability to provide incredible track capability in a package that can be driven to and from the track."

Using the Elise chassis as a starting point, the Exige's bodywork  produces nearly 100 pounds of downforce at 100 miles per hour, according to Lotus. This The additional downforce allows Exige to corner faster than the Elise, with the Exige turning laps nearly two seconds faster at Lotus' Hethel test track than the Elise. New bodywork on the Exige includes an aerodynamic splitter at the lower edge of the front bodywork, a sculpted hardtop and engine bay cover, side intake scoops and a rear wing. While the additional bodywork adds about 30 pounds over an Elise, the Exige will still weigh just slightly more than 2000 pounds.



All the Exige's trim, including the splitter, rear wing, side scoops, rear diffuser and wheels, are finished in black. The radiator outlet, front brake vents and engine bay outlets are finished with black mesh.

Forged wheels, ultra high performance Yokohama A048 tires, stiffer suspension and twin oil coolers from the Elise Sport Pack are standard equipment. Sport seats are also standard and all 20 exterior colors from the 2006 Lotus palette will be available. Black will be the only interior color for both the standard cloth and leather option.

A touring package will also be available with leather seats and door panels, full carpeting, additional sound insulation and an upgraded stereo system. A limited slip differential, traction control and an air conditioning delete option will also be available.

Production will be limited to 300 to 350 cars for the U.S with an MSRP of $50,990. Option pricing is as follows: Touring Pack - $1350; Lotus Traction Control - $495; limited slip differential with Lotus Traction Control - $1790; air conditioning delete - $250 (removes approximately 22 lbs.); Metallic Paint - $590; Lifestyle Paint - $1200

[Raghavan]

It's over 2000 lbs.

[Raza]

It's over 2000 lbs.

That's what you get for putting a hard top on it.  

[ifcar]

Seen that pic before. :P

[giant_mtb]

Seen that pic before. :P

 

[Minpin]

i like the new sig giant :D