The most popular car in Lotus’ lineup is up for its annual model year upgrade, with the presentation of the Elise S that features a new supercharged four-cylinder and the Elise SPS, which utilises a new, lightweight, robotised automated manual transmission.
Starting with the Elise S, it replaces the Elise SC with a new 1.8-litre supercharged four-cylinder engine generating 164 kW and 250 Nm. According to the British firm, the Elise S is more fuel efficient and delivers lower CO2 emission than the outgoing Elise SC. Lotus has not yet released any specific performance numbers or fuel economy figures.
As for the Elise SPS (Serial Precision Shift), it is powered by the same 1.8-litre engine, with the benefit of an automated manual transmission that allows the driver to switch between manual and automatic driving modes via steering column mounted paddles.
Lotus equips the 2012 Elise S with a fully independent suspension system, their Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) and an ABS braking system with AP-Racing twin-piston front brake calipers and Brembo single-piston sliding rear calipers.
In terms of styling, the 2012 Elise S features new LED daytime running lights integrated into its headlights, new instrument dials with blue illumination, and a new two-tone white and black interior. Lotus did not announced the price list of the 2012 Elise S, nor its on-sale date.
