Lotus makes a family sports car

The Lotus Evora is the first all-new Lotus since the Elise roadster of 1996 (the coupe version called Exige joined the line-up in 2000) and the world's only production mid-engine 2+2.

"Evora is the biggest milestone Lotus has achieved since the Elise and is the start of our bold five year strategic business plan, which includes the introduction of three new cars and advanced new technologies to many more markets around the world," says Mike Kimberley, CEO of Group Lotus plc. "The Evora also represents Lotus core values of performance through light weight and efficiency, proving you can have performance, fuel economy, elegant design and practicality all in a class leading mid-engine 2+2 sports car, whilst also meeting all global safety and homologation standards"

Power comes from a Toyota 3.5-litre V6 (with Toyota's VVT-i variable valve timing system) producing 276 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque. Lotus developed its own engine management system to optimize unique outputs. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual (also from Toyota). Pavement grip is entrusted to unique Yokohama LTS performance tires (225/40 ZR18 up front ; 255/35 ZR19 in rear). The combination of a 0.337 coefficient of drag and weight at just over 1300 kg, allows the car to sprint from zero to 100 km/h in under five seconds, with a claimed top speed of 261 km/h.

Because it aims to reach a different type of buyer from the almostracecar like Elise and Exige models, Evora features a more refined cabin with elegant trim and extensive equipment list with contemporary features such as touch screen multimedia centre, extensive connectivity for mobile phones and portable audio devices, and power mirrors.

Access to the interior is also reportedly easier than with the smaller sports cars, with wider, taller door openings, narrower sills and a higher seating position that will reportedly accommodate two 99 percentile males (six foot five).

Future derivatives of the car are planned including, among others, a convertible model. Just 2,000 Evoras are planned for annual production on a dedicated assembly line in Hethel, England.

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Fact file2010 Lotus Evora

MSRP:Est. $85,000 Freight:n/a

Notable options:Alpine mul timedia system; parking assists camera; cruise control; nav system; adjustable driving dynamics.