Lotus’s Elise has won kudos from performance-oriented drivers for its outstanding handling, which many describe as go-kart-like. It’s exceptionally light and low-slung, and the mid-engine placement of its 1.8-liter Toyota four-cylinder helps it track exceptionally well and quickly through pretty much any turn, with its steering having earned favorable comparisons to that of any Porsche. While the non-supercharged version’s engine produces “only” 189 hp, Lotus claims the 2009 version will get from 0 to 60 in 4.9 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph. Lotus says the supercharged 218-hp 2009 Elise SC will cut that 0 to 60 time to 4.4 seconds and can get from a standstill to 100 mph in 10.7 seconds.

Lotus made very few updates to the Elise for 2009. Changes include the addition of a tire pressure monitor, a new instrument panel with a customizable LCD readout, and a new ignition system that includes central locking and an alarm/immobilizer. Options include leather, a suspension-stiffening “sport pack,” a body-colored hard top, a limited-slip differential, and traction control. Pricing starts at $46,270 MSRP for the non-supercharged Elise and $54,500 for the Elise SC.

Press Releases

Lotus Elise is a driving experience like no other. Few cars can match the delicacy and accuracy of the steering, throttle and brakes. Supremely light and engineered for strength, performance and driver enjoyment.
�Performance through lightweight� is key to the way that this accomplished car handles on the road and track. Sweeping lines and a pure connection between driver and machine ensure that it is a pleasure to drive and a memory to savour.
Lotus Elise continues the tradition of refined motoring with a sublime sports car that handles and performs like a race car. The Elise has numerous improvements installed as standard equipment including a new Lotus Tire Pressure Monitoring System that provides instant warning if there is a puncture or if pressures fall below safe levels.
Other upgrades include a stylish new instrument display with a high-definition LCD message panel, clutter-reducing “hidden until lit” warning and shift lights and customizable display options. An alarm/immobilizer system is also incorporated with central locking functions into a new integrated ignition key design.

SPECIFICATIONS

CHASSIS
� Lotus Designed Lightweight Structure of Epoxy Bonded Aluminum Extrusions
� Integral Steel Seatbelt Support Structure and Lightweight Steel Rear Sub-Frame

EXTERIOR
� RTM Composite Fiberglass Body
� Black Soft-Top with Stowage Bag
� LED Taillights with Integral Reflectors
� Daytime Running Lights
� Aerodynamic Rear Diffuser with Central Twin Exhaust
� Solid Paint - Ardent Red or British Racing Green

SUSPENSION
� Fully Independent Suspension with Unequal Length Wishbones
� Bilstein Mono-Tube Gas Damper, Eibach Coaxial Coil Spring
� Front Anti-Sway Bar
� Cast Alloy 8-Spoke Wheels in Silver Finish
� Front Wheels: 5.5J x 16 - 175/55R16
� Rear Wheels: 7.5J x 17 - 225/45R17
� Yokohama Advan Neova AD07 LTS Sports Tires
� 4-Wheel Ventilated/Cross-Drilled Disc Brakes
� Lotus/AP Racing & Brembo Calipers with Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

INTERIOR
� Black Cloth Seats with ProBax� Anatomical Padding
� Air Conditioning, Starter Button, Tinted Glass and Carpet Foot Mats
� Airbags - Driver and Passenger (Passenger Airbag Cannot Be Deactivated)
� Factory Anti-Theft Alarm System with Engine Immobilizer and Remote Locking
� Aluminum Trim - Gear Knob and Handbrake Sleeve
� Leather-Trimmed Momo Steering Wheel
� Alpine 4-Speaker Stereo with In-Dash CD Player
� Intermittent Windshield Wiper

ENGINE
� 189 Horsepower 1.8 Liter, Mid-Mounted 4-Cylinder with DOHC and VVTL-I (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Intelligence)
� Multi-Point Fuel Injection System with Electronic Ignition and Throttle Control
� Capacity: 1796 cm3
� Bore/Stroke 82.0 mm/85.0 mm
� Maximum Power: 189 hp @7800 rpm
� Maximum Torque: 133 lb ft @6800 rpm
� Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
� Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.6 Gallons

TRANSMISSION
� 6-Speed Close Ratio