2008 Lotus Elise Review

Lotus Blossoms

The legendary Lotus Elise comes in a new supercharged version for 2008, making this lightweight convertible one of the quickest rides on the road.

Hitting U.S. shores as a 2005 model, the tiny mid-engine Lotus Elise roadster replaced the Esprit in the automaker’s North American lineup. It has since been joined by a hardtop version, the Exige. A supercharged Elise SC was added to the line for 2008.

The Lotus Elise is slightly smaller than a Mazda MX-5 Miata, but its exterior styling is far wilder, with elongated elliptical headlamps, sweeping broad-shouldered bodylines, large side scoops and wide air intakes on the lower fascia and at the rear fenders. A black cloth top is standard, with a removable body-colored hard top optional. Inside, the aluminum-trimmed cabin is appropriately cockpit-like, with a minimalist design that incorporates a start button and short-throw shifter topped by a machined ball of metal.

A Toyota-derived 190-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox deliver stronger acceleration than those numbers indicate. Given the vehicle’s ultra-light weight — at around a ton, it weighs less than the Toyota Yaris subcompact — the car can go from 0-60 miles per hour in just under five seconds. Quicker yet is the supercharged Elise SC, which boosts output to 220 hp, taking the roadster to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. In either version, the car delivers remarkably frugal fuel economy that tops virtually everything in its class.

• Lotus Elise Vehicle Summary

Lotus cars have long been known for their handling prowess and the Elise is no exception. The tiny two-seater is built on an all-aluminum lightweight chassis with exceptional rigidity; it also combines a race-inspired suspension with 17-inch wheels and Yokohama performance tires to maintain a truly tenacious grip through the curves (the SC’s tires are a half-inch wider at the rear for slightly better handling). Its ride is far from smooth, but few would mistake the racy Lotus Elise for a luxury cruiser, anyway. Antilock brakes with cross-drilled ventilated discs at all four corners ensure confident stopping.

• See all Lotus models in the Lotus Showroom

An optional Sports Pack further enhances the Lotus Elise’s performance. It includes an upgraded suspension, traction control, twin oil coolers, sport seats, and ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels. A Touring Pack adds amenities like a full leather or Microfiber interior treatment, audio system with iPod integration, and auxiliary driving lights; it also includes that staple of American motoring, a cup holder. Air conditioning, traction control, a limited-slip differential, and a removable hardtop are also offered as stand-alone options.