Introduction

Lotus Exige S – 2007 Preview: Add an aerodynamic body kit and a roof panel to the Lotus Elise, one of the greatest sports cars on the planet, and you create a Lotus Exige. Add a supercharged and intercooled 1.8-liter engine to the Exige, and you create a Lotus Exige S, which is new for 2007. Lotus says that a limited number of supercharged Exige S models will be on sale this year, wearing a starting price tag of $56,990.

Why it matters

The Lotus Exige is already a terrific sports car, but now it’s even better, with a power-to-weight ratio well under 1:10 to produce blistering acceleration, handling, and braking capabilities.

What’s under the hood

A supercharged, Toyota-supplied 1.8-liter four-cylinder inflates horsepower from 190 to 220 and torque gets a bump from 133 to 165 with 80 percent of it peaking at 2,100 rpm. Weight is just 2,077 pounds, and the Exige S rockets to 60 in 4.1 seconds on the way to a top speed of 148 mph all while averaging 25 mpg, according to Lotus. Brembo brake calipers, cross-drilled brake rotors, Bilstein shocks, Eibach springs, and Yokohama Advan A048 tires supply capable performance. An optional Track Pack includes adjustable shocks, sway bars, and a harness mounting bar behind the front seats. Other options include a limited slip differential and traction control.