Guide Note

The light and powerful Exige, by Lotus Cars, is essentially a coupe version of the Lotus Elise. The Exige is noted for its spartan interior, with everything from cup-holders to windshield visors optional. The frugality of accessories stems from the Lotus philosophy of "performance through light weight," and at just over 2,000 lbs. the Exige's 218 horsepower and 156 pound-feet of torque is bound to perform. However, with about 100 pounds of downforce at 100 mph,¹ the Exige's real stand out quality is it's handling. All of this combines to make the Exige more of an enthusiast's vehicle than your every-day sports car.

Fast Facts

1. Class: Sports car
2. Engine: Supercharged 1.8 Liter, Mid-Mounted 4-Cylinder with DOHC and VVTL-I
3. Transmission: 6-Speed Close Ratio with Single-Plate Dry Clutch
4. Fuel Efficiency: 20 City/26 Highway
5. Power: 218 hp @8000 rpm
6. Torque: 156 lb ft @5000 rpm
7. 0-60 4.1 seconds
8. Top Speed 150 mph
9. MSRP: $61,000
10. Curb weight: 2,077 lb

"If you're the type who relishes an intimate conversation with a true sports car, the 2006 Lotus Exige is an eloquent, multilingual partner enthusiastically begging for your cultured and informed company."—Edmunds²

"It's like piloting a feather: The Exige thrives on any corner it's presented and does so in a way that says, 'You could've gone quicker through there--much quicker.'"—MotorTrend³