2008 Lotus Exige Review

Lightweight with a Heavyweight's Punch

A new 240-horsepower option brings a new level of performance to the fleet-footed Lotus Exige coupe.

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The Lotus Exige is slightly smaller than a BMW Z4 Coupe, though its exterior styling is far wilder, with elongated elliptical headlamps, sweeping broad-shouldered bodylines highlighted by large side scoops, and wide air intakes on the lower fascia and at the rear fenders. 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.

• Lotus Exige Vehicle Summary

A Toyota-derived 190-horsepower 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox deliver stronger acceleration than the numbers indicate. Given the vehicle’s ultra-light weight — at around a ton, it weighs less than a Toyota Yaris subcompact — the car can go from 0-60 miles per hour in just under five seconds. Meanwhile, the Exige S adds a supercharger to the 1.8-liter engine and boosts output to 220 hp. Adding the optional Performance Pack (which also includes beefier brakes and a wider hood scoop, among other upgrades) brings this pint-sized powerhouse all the way up to 240 horses. This is sufficient to take the coupe to 60 mph in four seconds flat, making it slightly quicker than a Porsche 911 GT3. In either version, the car delivers remarkably frugal fuel economy that tops virtually everything in its class.

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An optional Sports Pack adds features like traction control, twin oil coolers (standard on the Exige S), an adjustable front anti-roll bar, and sport seats. A Touring Pack adds amenities like a 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 standalone options.