Lotus Elise and Exige Final Edition models come with everything the British brand learned throughout the years.
Lotus launched the first-generation of the iconic Elise model back in 1996 and the coupe version Exige four years later, meaning that the iconic sports cars reached 25 and 21 years of existence, respectively. Unfortunately, that seems to be the end of the road for the two since Lotus just announced it would ax both icons.
Nonetheless, the legendary British manufacturer will bid a fitting farewell, launching two Final Edition models in five variants, including two Elises and three Exiges.
Described as the Exige and Elise’s ultimate versions, these models will be available in limited numbers. All versions will have unique features like new design elements, performance upgrades, new wheel finishes, and unique paint schemes to make things more interesting.
The lineup includes the Elise Sport 240, Elise Cup 250, Exige Sport 390, Exige Sport 420, and Exige Cup 430, each being named according to their respective power output.
Lotus Elise Final Edition
The entry-level model in the Final Edition lineup is the Elise Sport 240. It employs a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240 HP and 180 lb-ft of torque, good enough to go from 0 to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, thanks to its super lightweight body, tipping the scale at only 1,980 lb.
If you are a thrill seeker and need a more aggressive-looking Elise model, then you can opt for the Elise Cup 250. Unlike the Sport 240, it features an aggressive body kit, adjustable anti-roll bars, ultra-light forged wheels, and Bilstein sports dampers.
Lotus Exige Final Edition
The coupe’s Final Edition lineup starts with the Exige 390, featuring a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 under the hood, producing 397 HP. It can go from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, and it has a top speed of 172 mph.
Meanwhile, the Exige Sport 420 offers 420 HP from the same engine. There are also Eibach anti-roll bars onboard and three-way adjustable Nitron dampers.
Ultimately, the most powerful model is the Exige Cup 430, which features the same supercharged 3.5-liter V6. However, this time, it is around 430 horsepower, a stunning figure considering the car weighs only 2,447 lb (1,110 kg). Special features in this model include carbon-fiber aerodynamic elements, titanium exhaust system, and AP Racing brakes. Besides, the Exige Cup 430 also features 17-inch forged alloy wheels and three-way adjustable dampers.
Both the Elise and Exige are available in special edition colors such as Azure Blue, Racing Green, and Black.
Overall, the last Exige and Elise models to come out of the factory certainly look impressive. However, you shouldn’t worry about the future – Lotus is already working with Alpine on lightweight sports cars, so successors are definitely on the cards.
