WIFM

Stylish, powerful — and green While two-seat sports cars are generally more comfortable and reliable than ever, earlier models have traditionally offered better performance—until now. Priced at about one-fourth the cost of an Italian exotic, Lotus launched its latest Elise in Tokyo last June and invited WIFM to take a look.

Top speed: 204kmh
0-100kmh: 6.5 seconds
Fuel consumption: 6.14 liters/100km
Price: 5.1 million yen including tax

Interior The interior is designed to save space and weight, but there’s also Touring and Sport packs and optional hardtop roof. Simple controls keep you focused on the road, while two air bags are standard along with air-conditioning, CD audio system and upgraded ProBax seats. With limited storage and comfort features this two-seat roadster suits short distances.

Engine The 1.6-liter, four-cylinder Toyota engine tuned by Lotus is mated to a six-speed manual transmission and has optional cruise control. Although 200cc smaller than the predecessor Elise S, it produces similar power but more than 20% more fuel economy and about 15% less CO2 emission.

Styling Distinctive engine cover opens from inside the cockpit.

Handling Standard braking is ABS with high-performance calipers and optional traction control. Light, attractive cast or optional forged wheels come in silver or black.

Exterior Sculptured front and refined bumper give a wider, meaner look and contemporary daytime-running headlamps freshen the classic design.