Tag: Lotus Exige S Automatic

Lotus Exige S Automatic is here and despite our previous concerns it will surely deliver pure and extreme driving. The convenience of an automatic has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the model. Lotus claims that via both automatic and paddle shift the car is capable of an even more focused driving experience. The control panel is integrated into the centre console of the cockpit and features four buttons: Park, Reverse, Neutral and Drive. The forged aluminium, manual-shift paddles are positioned behind the steering wheel cross-spokes.

In fact, the upshifts take only 240 milliseconds, while the downshifts are rapid and are accompanied by a throttle-blip when one drives in the Sport mode. In the same mode throttle response is sharpened and in combination with the Lotus Dynamic Performance Management (DPM) it increases the traction slip thresholds, which of course allows the person behind the wheel get even more control on the vehicle.

The same system also opens the engine exhaust bypass valve at mid-to-high engine speeds. Lotus has also ensured that there is an optional pack, which reduces additionally the intervention of the DPM. It is called Optional Race Pack and includes Race mode.

All of this is further strengthened by the 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, which produces the stunning 345 hp (258 kW) and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of optimum torque. If you wonder about the acceleration figures – they are detailed below. Just to mention, the Exige S Automatic reaches 100 km/h in only 3.9 seconds on its way to a top speed of 162 mph (261 km/h). And believe it or not this is 0.1 seconds quicker than the manual Exige S!

The CO2 emissions are rated at 222g/km while the combined fuel consumption number stands at 29.4mpg. The automatic transmission is offered on both Exige S and Exige S Roadster models.

Source: Lotus 

Yes, you’ve read that just right! The fastest car in the United Kingdom will be equipped with just two pedals… And we are NOT excited about it. But it is definitely good news for those who are lazy to use their left leg. Lotus has just officially announced that it will equip the Exige S with a six-speed automatic transmission. The so called by Lotus “convenience of an automatic” has been specifically tailored to the sporty characteristics of the Exige S.

Just like the manual gearshift, this automatic will provides its driver with all round engagement and excitement which will reflecs the Lotus DNA of pure driving experience. At least we hope so … The dynamic system changes were activated when the driver selects either ‘Sport’ or ‘Race’ mode. The improved gear selection and response deliver quicker all-round performance for sportier experience is desired.

Lotus says that this new introduction opts to make the Exige S model range more accessible to customers worldwide. Now, those who are more accustomed to two pedals can enjoy the exceptional performance and handling of the Exige S without compromise.

Exige S Automatic is currently completing its final stages of testing. And Lotus actually expects to see better performance results than the manual variant. As a matter of fact, Exige S with automatic transmission is as fast as its manual counterpart.

Around the Hethel test track it covers the 0 – 100 km/h sprint 0.1 seconds quicker than the Exige S manual, precisely – 3.9 seconds. The new transmission option will be available to both Coupe and Roadster models. However, we are still counting on the spirited drive with manual transmission that the Exige S can offer. Do you share our point of view?

Source: Lotus