Car News

Lotus Exige 360 Cup released

Lotus have unveiled a new variant of their popular Exige sports car. Using the Exige V6 Cup as a starting point, Lotus redefined the formula to create the Exige 360 Cup, a limited edition model which will see just 50 cars produced.

Compared to the V6 Cup, the 360 Cup weighs 47kg less for a 1130kg kerb weight, thanks to the use of lightweight body panels (including an updated front access panel and tailgate) as well as the removal of some items of equipment, such as the stereo, air-conditioning unit and some sound insulation. Thankfully, should you need any of these items they can be ordered as optional extras. Also on the extras list are carbon fibre seats, four-point safety harnesses, a quick release steering wheel, plus Ohlins adjustable dampers and adjustable front and rear anti-roll bars.

lotus-exige-360-cup-8

Diet aside, the 360 Cup is also more powerful. Whilst the Toyota derived 3.5L supercharged V6 remains the same, it has been modified and now includes a custom Lotus exhaust and TRD high flow air filter. These changes means the V6 now produces 265kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Impressive figures in such a lightweight car, but it’s up just 7kW over the regular V6 Cup.

lotus-exige-360-cup-4

But that’s not the end of it. The 360 Cup stands taller thanks to a new aero package, comprising of a new front splitter, new rear diffuser and a taller rear wing. While they might not sound like much, these items should serve up 42 kg of downforce at 160 km/h. The extra downforce doesn’t hold the 360 Cup back in a straight line, either. Lotus says it’ll sprint from 0-100km/h in under four seconds and on to a top speed of 274km/h. Some properly quick numbers right there.

lotus-exige-360-cup-6

Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus had the following to say about the 360 Cup, “The V6 Cup was a favourite amongst many knowledgeable customers with its incredible track performance and distinctive design. I am excited about the introduction of the new 360 Cup which moves the game forward with striking new design features and performance upgrades that offer phenomenal ability on road and track,” said Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus about the new car.”

lotus-exige-360-cup-5

The 360 Cup will be available in four colours only (Metallic White, Metallic Grey, Metallic Black and Metallic Silver) but all come with a matte black roof to help set them apart from the crowd.

 

Related posts

New Mazda CX-8 diesel now available

Sean McKellar

Jeremy Clarkson’s love affair with old Lancias

Sean McKellar

Nissan is working on brain-to-vehicle technology for future vehicles

Sean McKellar

New BMW i3’s traction control system 50 times faster; will feature on all future BMW & MINI models

Sean McKellar

Gran Turismo Sport – Top Gear Nurburgring Van Challenge

Sean McKellar

Jeremy Clarkson partners with Emirates and Mercedes

Sean McKellar

Leave a Comment