The Evora will be offered either as a true two-seater or in a  2+2  arrangement. Lotus has

indicated that the rear seats are only suitable for children.

Power will come from a Toyota sourced 3.5-liter V-6 with variable valve timing, tuned to

produce 276 horsepower and 252 lb-ft of torque, and Lotus specs the  car at 0-to-60-mph

 in less than five seconds and a top speed near 160 mph.

The Evora employs typical Lotus aerodynamics to keep the car planted at high speeds,

including a rear diffuser and spoiler. The Evora rides on Bilstein shocks and Eibach

springs, so performance and handling should still be superb.

Inside there more creature comforts and features than in the Exige and Elise:

air conditioning, leather seating, a tire-pressure monitoring system, a backup camera,

cool blue LED lighting, and a remote garage-door opener.

The car will be equped with an Alpine audio and navigation system with

satellite radio, iPod, and Bluetooth connectivity, and a clever audio equalizer.

The Evora even has a

rear-mounted trunk

that’s designed  to fit

a set of golf clubs. 

Lotus rounds out the

 features list with

anti-lock brakes and

traction and stability

control. Lotus says it

will be another six

months before the

 Evora is available for test drives. The Evora will go on sale in spring 2009, starting in Europe, with

 only 2000 to be built per year unless demand warrants adding a second shift at the Hethel,

 England, plant.  We expect them later in 2009 as 2010 models. We are now accepting deposits.