Used 2012 Lotus Evora IPS Sports Coupe Review & Ratings

The 2012 Lotus Evora IPS makes a move that is bold in the exotic car industry by offering one of its most prized sports coupes with an automatic transmission. This is in response to the sentiment shared by many enthusiasts internationally that purchasing a Lotus Evora would only happen if it offered an automatic transmission. Most of the other features of the Lotus Evora IPS match its predecessor, including the engine, but some noticeable differences are present.

Like the manual coupes, the 2012 Lotus Evora IPS features a six speed transmission. The IPS (meaning Intelligent Precision Shift) switches between gears a little more smoothly than most other performance automatic transmissions. There is, however, still a noticeable kick if it's forced to make a hard shift. The familiar sport mode button is also available to adjust the transmission for different situations, although it has been relocated to the center tunnel. Switching this mode on will result in overall better performance, though it may lower gas mileage (on average, it gets about 17 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway). Paddle shifting is also available on the 2012 model for those that still want a little more control over the gears.

The Lotus Evora IPS features the same 276HP 3.5L V6 engine found in its manual predecessor. However, the performance still doesn't quite live up to the conventional coupe. The car tops out at 155 mph, 7 lower than its manual counterpart. It also takes it 5.2 seconds to reach 60 mph, compared to 4.9 seconds for the manual transmission. Still, these numbers are much higher than cars with traditional automatic transmissions and are sure to please drivers.

Since the 2012 Lotus Evora IPS is really just an additional option for the Evora, the majority of its features are identical. The exterior still favors a stylish aerodynamic shape that helps reduce the wind's effect on the car while still providing an engaging look. The rear spoiler is well integrated into this frame and compliments the brand featured across the back. The standard Bi-Xenon headlamps continue to please drivers, regardless of whether they are on or off. The door mirrorss are still heated on the base model and have the power folding option for those that need it.

The interior of the Lotus Evora IPS is also nearly identical to the manual coupe. The leather trim featured on the steering wheel integrates well with the modern dashboard. Passengers will still be able to charge essential electronic devices in one of the coupe's two 12v sockets. Electric windows and a remote release for the glove compartment are also available. And owners can still activate the car's alarm or immobilization features by remote. The subtle changes in the Lotus Evora IPS include a new location for the sport mode button and a manual shifting paddle.

The seats found in the Lotus Evora IPS feature the same leather trim that Evora owners have grown used to. These provide an exceptional level of comfort for passengers. The front seats are also heated at the occupant's discretion. The position of the front seats can be adjusted to provide more room for passengers in the back, if backseats were chosen. However, taller individuals will still find it awkward and sometimes difficult to get in and out of the car.

The Lotus Evora IPS also contains all of the same safety features of its predecessor. This includes anti-lock brakes in a braking system that is suitable for both racing and everyday commutes. Traction control is also available to help prevent the driver from losing control during inclement conditions. Two airbags are provided for the front passengers and a strong frame integrated with a crash box protects passengers from the force of impact. Unfortunately, the Lotus Evora IPS also shares some of the Evora's shortcomings, including a lack of safety consideration for side impacts.