Lotus Evora S: A Unique Combination of Performance and Comfort

The Lotus Evora S, introduced in 2011, offers a driving experience that surpasses its competitors. With a starting price of £20k, this 2+2 coupé is a practical solution to the limitations of its smaller sibling, the Elise. While the Elise excels in delivering a pure and visceral connection between car and driver, it falls short when it comes to long-distance travel or accommodating passengers.

Enter the Evora, a stylish and comfortable sports car that doesn’t compromise on performance. Launched in 2009, the Evora quickly gained popularity as a versatile option for those seeking both excitement and practicality. Its three-section composite body, featuring easily replaceable plastic bumpers, exudes confidence and style.

Under the hood, the Evora is powered by an eager 3456cc V6 engine. This all-alloy, transversely mounted engine delivers 276bhp at 6400rpm, thanks to Lotus’ bespoke electronic throttle map. With a top speed of 162mph and a 0-60mph time of just 5.4 seconds, the Evora offers impressive performance for its weight of 1382kg.

The Evora lineup expanded over the years to include faster versions such as the S, the 400, the Sport 410, the GT410 Sport, and the GT430. The GT430 even boasts a top speed close to 200mph. However, speed is not the sole focus of Lotus cars. The Evora’s true strength lies in its exceptional handling finesse.

The steering of the Evora provides a perfect balance of weight and responsiveness. It allows the driver to confidently navigate corners with ease. The car grips the road firmly until the front wheels start to slip, at which point it can be controlled in a predictable and forgiving slide. With the traction control switched off, the Evora’s chassis truly shines, showcasing its exceptional handling capabilities.

In terms of ride quality, the Evora strikes a balance between comfort and performance. It maintains a supple ride even during spirited driving, effectively absorbing bumps and crests while maintaining excellent body control. The only drawback is the loose and vague gearshift of early models, which detracts from an otherwise impressive performance.

Like any car, the Lotus Evora has its common issues. Potential buyers should be aware of the following:

1. Engine: While the chain-driven Toyota V6 engine is generally reliable, it’s important to check the ECU for any record of over-revving. Some US cars have reported problems with the Edelbrock supercharger.

2. Gearbox: Early models may experience stretched and noisy manual gearchange cables, making gear changes difficult. Later models addressed this issue with improved cables. Clutch failure can occur as early as 25,000 miles. It’s crucial to ensure that the IPS gearbox changes smoothly.

3. Suspension and Brakes: The Evora should exhibit the precise steering, braking, and ride quality expected from a Lotus. However, potential buyers should watch out for signs of track abuse and uneven tire wear, which may indicate misaligned tracking due to a past crash. A knocking sound from the front could be a result of worn anti-roll bar bushes.

4. Body: Carefully inspect the panel gaps of the Evora, as any misshapen parts of the composite bodywork can be expensive to repair. Rust is not typically an issue. Common problems include faulty door handles, dented tailgate panels, and troublesome bootlids and petrol filler caps.

5. Interior: Early models received criticism for their poor interior quality, but this improved in later examples. The efficiency and response of the sat-nav system have also been questioned. Check for signs of wear on the driver’s seat side bolsters, door speakers, lower fascia, and fragile leather facings on sills.

In conclusion, the Lotus Evora S offers a unique combination of performance and comfort. Its exceptional handling finesse and stylish design make it a standout choice in the sports car market. Despite some common issues, the Evora remains a highly desirable option for those seeking an exhilarating driving experience.