20 years ago, Lotus launched the Exige Sport 410, a model which made quite an impact in the sportscar world. It was highly capable on the track and also brought superlative driving dynamics to the road. The Exige delivered on Lotus’ core values of exceptional handling, outstanding grip and aerodynamic expertise.
This week, Lotus has unveiled the 20th anniversary edition of the model, finished in a choice of vibrant new retro-inspired colours. It comes with higher levels of standard equipment and an enhanced interior package.
“The Exige Sport 410 20th Anniversary builds on the Exige’s unrivalled levels of handling and performance. This special edition of one of our most acclaimed sports cars ever will continue the Lotus ethos of being born for the track and bred for the road,” said Ema Forster, Head of Product Marketing at Lotus.
All versions come with upgraded exterior features commemorating the Exige Series 1. These are the body-coloured roof, side air intake pods and rear wing, plus the black ‘shark fin’ stone chip protector ahead of the rear wheel.
Also part of the new car’s customer appeal is the unique ‘20th Anniversary’ black silhouette logo featuring a striking profile image of the Series 1. It’s visible on the front wings above the side repeaters and on the rear bumper. A distinctive ‘20’ logo on the rear wing end-plates adds the finishing touch.
Customers can order the Exige Sport 410 20th Anniversary edition in one of three bespoke exterior colours, all taken from the Exige Series 1. They are Chrome Orange, Laser Blue and Calypso Red. In addition, there’s also Saffron Yellow – a colour reminiscent of the original Norfolk Mustard Yellow – Motorsport Black or Arctic Silver.
The nostalgia is carried over to the interior, where there’s a choice of different coloured Alcantara trims, and each seat is decorated with panelled stitching which echoes that of the original car. The logo is also embroidered on the seatbacks and embossed on the car’s dashboard ‘build plaque’.
The car’s list of standard equipment includes Nitron three-way adjustable dampers. These have variable bump and rebound settings that enable the driver to personalise the suspension to suit driving style and environment, for example, on the road or a racetrack. The front splitter, front access panel and rear tailgate are all made from carbonfibre.
A number of features which are optional extras on the Exige are fitted as standard on the 20th Anniversary car. These include DAB digital radio with Bluetooth, cruise control, ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels and an Alcantara steering wheel. Remaining options include carbonfibre sill trim, lightweight lithium-ion battery and titanium lightweight exhaust.
“From the very first drives of the development car, the Exige displayed new levels of ability. It set new standards for Lotus road and race cars, perfectly illustrating our core values of performance through light weight, aerodynamics and handling,” said Gavan Kershaw, Director of Vehicle Attributes. “It really is a race car for the road; I’ve competed and won races in every version of the Exige, from the Series 1 to the Series 3, and always walked away with a grin on my face.”
In the UK, the car is priced at £79,900 (RM426,300). Not including the exclusivity, the extras are valued at £5,412 (RM28,900) over the standard Sport 410. The first cars will be with customers in selected international markets later this year.
