Lotus has announced the Exige S Club Racer, a further lightened version of the Exige S which weighs 15 kg (33 lbs) less. Lotus calls it “the most inspiring version of an already class-leading sports car.”
That’s because the standard Exige S is already a light car, thanks to its aluminum chassis-tub and aerodynamically enhanced composite bodywork. It’s fast too, with the 345hp (350PS) 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine allowing it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.0 seconds and to reach a top speed of 274 km/h (170 mph).
Available only with the coupe body style, the Exige S Club Racer has 42 kg (92.6 lbs) of aerodynamic downforce at 100 mph (160 km/h), made possible by the front splitter, rear wing and flat underside.
Tipping the scales at 1,161 kg (2,559.5 lbs), it shaves 15 kg off the Exige S’ curb weight thanks to a new lightweight battery, lightweight center console in body color, lighter doors and lightweight sports seats, which are available in leather or Alcantara with color coded stitching.
Lotus says the Club Racer delivers enhanced vehicle control, as the traction slip thresholds (‘Drive‘, ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings) can be altered via a driver-selectable switch which is now fitted as standard. Furthermore, both ‘Sport’ and ‘Race’ settings increase throttle responsiveness.
The Lotus Exige S Club Racer is available with four color options: Metallic White, Exige Orange, Metallic Yellow and Matt Black (option). Regardless of the body color, the front splitter, rear wing, front access panel, roof panel, wing mirrors and rear transom are all in matt black. Other distinctive features are the Club Racer decals above the side indicator, on the dashboard and seats. The Club Racer package costs £2,400 more than the standard Exige S for what Lotus claims to be worth £4,500 in additional equipment. Prices start from £56,900 in the UK.
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