Just in time for the weekend, Lotus has pulled back the cover on a new Exige. The 2019 Exige Sport 410 takes inspiration from the Exige Cup 430 to build the ultimate daily driver. Founder Colin Chapman would be proud that his formula is still used: “First simplify, then add lightness”.
The engine, chassis, and suspension are shared with the Cup 430, but the Sport 410 is not a hardcore track car. A slight recalibration of the engine offers 410 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Sure these are adequate for any car until you notice it only weighs 2,323 lbs dry. The press release says it is the lightest V6-powered Exige ever, and our Exotic Car Buyer’s Guide references that it is among the lightest cars we have ever written about.
Lotus Group CEO Jean-Marc Gales said: “With every new Lotus we look to move the bar higher and apply technology and development ideas drawn from top-of-the-range models. Our agility as a company means that the lessons learned today can quickly be incorporated into the cars of tomorrow and the Exige Sport 410 is a perfect example of this. We have taken the Exige Cup 430, the ultimate track-centric Exige, and developed it into the perfect road orientated sports car, ensuring that we stay ahead of rivals when it comes to cars that deliver a truly engaging analogue driving experience.”
While they won’t go into detail as to where the weight was eliminated, a titanium exhaust saves 22 lbs. Air conditioning and entertainment systems are optional, but not an automatic transmission. The gorgeous exposed shifter of the close ratio 6-speed is all a true enthusiast needs. If you are curious about when the new Exige will arrive, click the link below and stay with us for all your Lotus updates.
