2010 Lotua Evora

This a car that is a major departure for its manufacturer....it is a mid-engined 2+2 rear wheel drive sports coupe the Lotus Evora. The Evora is produced by British car manufacturer Lotus. Lotus has built two seat sports cars....this is the first time since 1992 that Lotus has built a 2+2. Currently, it is the only mid-engined 2+2 for sale anywhere.

The Evora is larger than the current Lotus models Elise and Exige. It weights an estimated curb weight of 2976 lbs. (1350 kg). It is the product of Lotus's five year plant o expand the Lotus line of cars.

It is currently the only Lotus model with a 2+2 configuration, although it has been announced that it will also be offered in a two-seat configuration, referred to as the "Plus Zero" option.

Lotus's have been know for their small interior dimensions....the new Evora will fit 99% of the American male population. The wheelbase is 11 inches longer then the Elise. Lotus intends the Evora to compete with different market sectors including the Porsche Cayman.

The motor is a 3.5 liter V-6 with 276 hp., the motor and six speed manual transmission are sourced from Toyota. The motor also is used in the Toyota Camry and Venza models. The 0-60 mph. speed is 4.9 seconds. The brakes are large ventilated disks with four piston calipers.

The Evora is built with extruded and bonded aluminum chassis....and is apparently 250% stronger than the Elise chassis.

Pricing for the Lotus has not been announced at the present time. The estimated base price is $75,000 USD plus options.

The name "Evora" keeps the Lotus tradition of beginning model names with an "E". The name was a random derivative of the term Evo, instead of being named for the city of Evora, Portugal.


SUMMARY:

This is a very interesting approach by Lotus to make a family oriented sports car! The interior has been upgraded with a two tone look.....very different than any previous Lotus. Handling for the car should be typical Lotus with exceptional handling, precise steering, and exceptional braking.

Car and Driver 10 Best Awards 2009

As I have mentioned in previous posts, it is a good idea to use various guides in purchasing a car. Here is one of my favorites Car and Drivers 10 Best Cars. The staff at Car and Driver are serious car enthusiasts, so if they pick a car for this list then that should be a serious consideration on your list.

"The cars are judged on three points. The first is how each car performs their intended duties. Second, they consider how engaging a car is on an emotional level. Lastly, they look at how competitive a car’s pricing is for the levels of versatility, practicality, and fun it offers. They are looking for value in their selections and highlight those cars that possess it. Check out these Car and Driver videos!

• BMW 3-Series/M3 Video
• Cadillac CTS/CTS-V Video
• Chevrolte Corvette Video
• Honda Accord Video
• Honda Fit Video
• Infinity G37 Video
• Jaguar XF Video
• Mazda MX-5 Miata Video
• Porsche Boxter & Cayman Video
• Volkswagon GTI Video

Eligibility for 10Best is determined based on newness and past 10Best success. All cars either new or significantly redesigned are allowed. Additionally, cars that made the list in 2008 are automatically invited back for 2009, providing they still clear the price cap—2.5 times the average newcar transaction price for all light-duty vehicles sold through August of the previous year, or $71,000 this time around.

If a car fails to make the list its first year on the market, it’s out of contention until a significant redesign renews its eligibility. Conversely, if a car consistently impresses Car and Driver enough to be voted to the list year after year, it can remain on the list indefinitely, even if it receives no updates. But all eligible cars must be available for sale no later than January 2009.