Lotus has released a softer version of its mid-engined 2+2 sports car, the Evora. Which is odd - normally, Lotus tends to launch more and more hardcore versions of its cars - stripping out weight, adding power, sharpening reflexes. This, the Evora GT410, is a little different.
An Evora GT, but comfier
Apparently, it's known as 'Phil's Spec' after Lotus CEO Phil Popham, who decided that he wanted the performance and agility of one of his brand's cars, but with a little more day-to-day comfort.
It's based on the Evora GT410 Sport, but is around STG£3,000 cheaper than that car, in spite of actually having more equipment as standard. Inside, there are Sparco sports seats, air conditioning, a reversing camera, and a premium touch-screen sound system complete with Apple CarPlay. Possibly more importantly, there's also more sound-deadening panels so that the interior will actually be quiet enough for you to listen to said sound system.
All-weather tyres from Michelin
The doors now feature integrated arm-rests with storage compartments, while the rear bodywork features a larger rear screen, for improved visibility. There are new suspension dampers, tuned for a slightly more gentle sort of ride comfort, while the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S all-weather tyres means this is one Lotus you'll be happy to use in the winter months.
Other equipment highlights include red-painted AP brake callipers, cast alloy wheels in either silver or gloss black, (19-inch at the front, 20-inch at the rear), cruise control, heated seats, and rear parking sensors.
The price for all of that? Woof - it's STG£82,900 in the UK, or €99,000 in Germany, meaning that you're probably going to need to find at least €160,000 to land one here.
Sharper Evora GT410 Sport still on sale
Don't fancy the soft approach? Well that's OK - Lotus will still sell you the harder, sharper, Evora GT410 Sport, which has also been upgraded with the Sparco sport seats, air-con, and sound system including DAB digital radio, sat-nav and Apple CarPlay.
Lotus has also announced new ways for customers to enhance the specification of the Elise and Exige, including the reintroduction of the optional Touring and Sport packs. Touring enables the customer to add in comfort and convenience options to create a more desirable 'road spec' car, while Sport is based on the more driver-focused features that appeal to those who want to drive in a more spirited way, such as at track days.