Used 2011 Lotus Exige S Sports Coupe Review & Ratings

The 2011 Lotus Exige S is the company's solution for enthusiasts seeking the absolute best performance available in a sports coupe. It redefines the meaning of supercar by relying heavily on a lightweight for performance, rather than muscle. The result is a unique vehicle that has an impressive level of power but lacks just about everything else. It's a great vehicle for high performance purposes, but not necessarily for your daily commute unless a premium package is selected. The car will be available in the United States, but as a track-only car, due to government regulations.

The 2011 Lotus Exige S has received ratings that match its purpose. Appearance received a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars from Yahoo! Autos. Performance was given 4 stars, along with reliability. Value received the same score. However, it only gets 2 stars for comfort. The exotic exterior of the Lotus Exige S perfectly reflects its primary purpose.

The smooth curves provide an enhanced level of aerodynamics and beauty in the 2011 model. The front splitter enhances these attributes, while the rear spoiler completes the aggressive style while also keeping the car stable. Even the standards wheels include a premium: performance bespoke rims featuring Pirelli P-zero Corsa tires. These tires compliment the looks of the Lotus Exige S just as much as its performance. This coupe is well-known to turn the heads of pedestrians for good reason.

The interior of the 2011 Lotus Exige S coupe, on the other hand, is a different story; at least without upgrading to a premium package. Only the most basic features are provided in the standard model in order to maintain its light weight. This includes fairly comfortable bucket seats, airbags and a small but proportional (and stylish) steering wheel. Air conditioning is offered on the standard model, but can be removed to bring the weight down even further. As expected, trunk space is limited to smaller bags and luggage. The standard stereo system won't be turning any heads either.

The engine would be impressive if integrated with a large muscle car and provides unparalleled performance in the small frame of the 2011 Lotus Exige S. The supercharged and intercooled 3.5L V6 engine offers an incredible 345 HP. The car gets from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds and can even reach 100 mph in less than 10 seconds. The engine is capable of pushing the coupe up to 170 mph. The innovative Variable Valve Timing and Lift-Intelligent technology built into the engine makes this possible. A 6-speed manual transmission allows drivers to easily utilize this high level of performance for whatever driving conditions they are faced with. The engine is also mid-mounted to help keep the car stable.

Another reason that the Lotus Exige S suits high performance uses better than daily commutes comes from its safety features. In order to provide a light weight vehicle, these aspects of the coupe have been kept to the minimum required by law. Front airbags will be provided for both the driver and passenger, but none will protect from the side. This is alarming given the already light material used in the construction of the sports coupe. Traction and stability control are also missing in the base model, though the Exige S' design provides plenty of features to compensate. Power steering is another luxury that enthusiasts will have to do without.