Just the other day, Autocar posted an article discussing the plans that Lotus has for the Series 4 Elise. I've attached the Autocar generated renders but I do suggest reading the article yourself. I'm excited to hear that they are intended to bring it stateside. In addition, I'm hoping they pull something nifty out of the works like utilizing the Toyota/Subaru boxer engine from the FR-S/BRZ and slap on a turbo. I'm sure it'll end up having an I4 though. Also, I realize that the pictures were generated with no input from Lotus, but it does show that, in my opinion, there's some life left in the design language. Combining the Series 3 Elise/Exige with some cues from the Evora 400 and just basically updating the overall output makes it look a bit like a mini 918 Spider (I'm sure that's what Autocar was referencing in the design). Hopefully Lotus will up the quality of the interior materials from what my S2 Exige had; more on par with the Evora. I'd love to see the rear a bit more Evora-esque with just two tail lights and a bit of venting instead of the foursome, but hey, all-in-all, color me intrigued. I think I might have to start filling the piggy bank, just in case. Anyone else want to offer up some thoughts and speculation? Image Unavailable, Please Login Image Unavailable, Please Login
Overall I like it, though the rear could be a little more interesting. The question will be, what kind of transmissions will be available.
If the goal is still the lowest weight possible, I would think a six speed manual would continue to be offered.
