You’ll struggle to spot the difference, but this is the third-generation 2010-spec Lotus Elise. The basic chassis, brakes and dimensions remain unchanged, but the styling is subtly tweaked (the headlights are the stand-out change, but many of the panels are gently finessed) and the base model now has a 1.6-litre Toyota-sourced engine located amidships and a six-speed gearbox to replace the last generation1.8-litre that hooked up to a five-speeder.
Performance of the 2010 Elise is similar, but the price goes up by £900 and the S drops off the base model’s name – it’s just a Lotus Elise these days. Does what it says on the tin.
More money for a basic, smaller-engined Elise? Boo!
Don’t worry, the R model that sits above the base Elise still features a 1.8-litre lump (an all-new, more sprightly one too with 189bhp), and the 1.6-litre engine gets very similar performance to the old, lower-power 1.8 that used to reside in the S – it has 9lb ft more torque, does the same top speed, but takes 0.4sec longer to get to 62mph.
The more efficient engine and new gearbox bring another bonus however – fuel economy improves from 37.2mpg to 45mpg, while C02 falls from 179 to 149g/km.
What’s the new Lotus Elise like to drive?
Much as it’s always been, with that taut, direct feel to everything. Even before you set off you notice how firm yet comfortable the seats are (and they were still comfortable after more than two hours at the wheel), and how thin and firm the small steering wheel rim is.
On the go, the steering is instantly responsive, the throttle pedal buzzes with energy, the brakes are immediately feelsome and the ride is extremely firm with a layer of elasticity to smooth off any harsh edges.
Purists will be relieved to know the steering, brakes and suspension specs are unchanged from the old car. ‘We experimented with different settings,’ says executive engineer Matt Becker, ‘but we just kept coming back to the same thing. It works, why change it?’
But the gear change has been improved, thanks to improved mounting and lower friction cables. It snicks home cleanly, directly and satisfyingly.
>> Click ‘Next’ to read more of CAR’s first drive review of the new 2010 Lotus Elise
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