Information från Lotus
New Exige to Change the Rules
Hethel, UK
8th September 2003
Not since the arrival of the Elise has any car made such an impact. Now, as the current Elise improved on the original icon, so the Exige is to perform the same feat. The new Lotus Exige bears all the hallmarks of a true racer. Large air intakes and front splitter dominate the cars aggressive front stance. Sweeping lines and extended air scoops lead into the commanding rear haunches and spoiler, proudly displaying the cars racing intent.
With Lotus Design working in conjunction with Lotus engineering and aerodynamic teams to achieve an optimum driving experience, the Exige performs as dynamically as it looks. Powered by a 1.8 litre 4 cylinder 16 valve engine with VVTL-i variable valve technology and mated to a close ratio six-speed manual gearbox, the Exige will sweep effortlessly past 60mph in under 5 seconds whilst breaking the 140mph mark with ease. With an output of 190bhp, the Toyota Motor Corporation manufactured engine is perfectly suited to the Exige, revving to around 8350rpm.
As with any Lotus, perfect dynamics are key to the product. Tuned by Lotus’ world famous Ride and Handling team, every conceivable component, such as suspension, wheels and tyres have been developed to provide the ultimate performance both on and off the track.
The Exige will be unveiled at the 2004 Geneva Motorshow for the UK, Europe and Asia-Pacific markets. Details of specifications and price will be announced closer to this unveiling date.
The K-Series engine will continue to be used within the Elise range for the foreseeable future.
Från Pistonheads
New car to break cover at 2004 Geneva Show!
As with all new Lotuses there have been rumours flying about for a very long time now about the development of an Exige S2. Sneak pictures of an Exige with S2 type styling were even flying round the net over six months ago after a car was spotted in the motorsport development area during an open day, but at that time it wasn't know if the car pictured was a one off or the basis of a new model.
What is known now is that an S2 based Exige will be unveiled at next years Geneva Motor Show in March 2004.
We don't expect any major surprises on the styling front, with the sketches revealing a look very similar to the S1 Exige but updated with the Elise S2 styling cues.
Where things have changed is in the engine department. As has been rumoured for many, many months now, Lotus have done a deal with Toyota. The Exige S2 will be powered by a 1.8 litre, four cylinder, 16 valve, VVTL-i engine mated to a six speed 'box. Lotus once again insist that the K Series will remain the engine of choice in the Elise for the forseeable future.
The Toyota motor develops 190bhp, taking the Elise to 60mph in less than five seconds and on to over 140mph.
The launch in 2004 will be for UK, Europe and Asian markets. No mention is made of the USA at this stage.
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