Next to the 2012 Lotus Exige S and Exige R-GT comes another model unveiled in Frankfurt. We’re talking about the 2012 Lotus Elise S, a model which will replace the existing Elise SC which just displayed its final hoorah with the special edition Elise SC Final Edition.
The new model gets its power from a supercharged 1.8 L I-4 engine mated to a 6-speed gearbox delivering 217 HP at 6800 rpm, a similar power output to the outgoing Elise SC and a significant increased peak torque of 184 lb-ft at 4600 rpm (up from the SC’s 156 lb-ft of torque).
The 2012 Lotus Elise S will come fitted with a fully independent suspension utilizing unequal length wishbones, a Bilstein mono-tube gas damper, Eibach coaxial coil springs at each corner, and a front anti-roll bar.
Also, like the Exige S, the new Elise S will be equipped with the Lotus DPM (Dynamic Performance Management). This allows the driver to alternate between three driving modes: Touring, Sport, and DPM off.
Dynamic Performance Management (DPM)
Corner Brake Control (CBC)
Drag Torque Control (DTC)
Electronic Differential Lock (EDL)
Traction Control System (TCS)
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)*
Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)*
Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD)*
Understeer Recognition
All apart from * can be completely switched off.
While the exterior gets a modified front grille, the interior features a polished aluminum gear knob and handbrake sleeve, a black plain/perforated leather steering wheel and a black leather gear lever gaiter. In addition to all these comes the standard lightweight aluminum passenger footrest and an engine start push button.
In addition to the new features, there will also be three packages available:
Touring Pack
Leather ProBaxTM seats
Padded leather door panels
Perforated leather door inserts
Leather trimmed center console
Black perforated leather handbrake lever gaiter
Black carpet mats with embroidered Elise logo
Noise insulation paneling
Auxiliary driving lights
iPod* stereo connection
Trinket tray divider and cup holder
Cruise control
Sport Pack
Bilstein Sports Dampers
Silver 14-spoke forged wheels
ProBaxTM sports seats
Black Style Pack
Black wheels
Black rear diffuse
No details about pricing were released, but expect a price tag somewhere close to the $55,000 found on the outgoing Elise SC.
Source: TopSpeed
Photos Source: Carscoop
