Lotus Exige S Roadster is So Much Better than Expected

We had expected that Lotus might be bringing a convertible version of the Evora to Geneva, which also seemed rather boring and obvious, but instead it is introducing the Exige S Roadster. It would seem like a topless Exige should be called an Elise, but let's not hold that against them because this is one seriously pretty and powerful Lotus.

The Exige S Roadster weighs just 1100kg and  uses a supercharged 3.5l V6 that hits 100km/h in four seconds and 160km/h in 8.5 seconds. Top speed is 233km/h. Not that it matters on a car like this, but it produces 236g/km of CO2 and uses 10.1l/100km in the combined cycle. It comes standard with a six-speed manual but will be available with Lotus' new paddle-shifted automated manual. 

There will be two suspension options: either a standard setting for the road or a race setting that comes in the optional Race Pack. The Race Pack also adds launch control. Although, Lotus warns the race suspension is really only meant for the track. 

The interior is the standard Lotus minimalism. 

The wonderful thing about this new Exige S Roadster is its clean styling. Too often, the Exige can be cluttered with too many wings and air intakes. This is is relatively understated with two side air intakes, a large front splitter and rear diffuser.