2018 Lotus Evora GT

Overview

The Lotus Evora is a back-to-basics performance machine with scintillating handling that lets it react telepathically to every driving input. Compared to rivals like the Porsche 911 and Acura NSX, the sparse cabin and rawness of the Evora makes it feel like it’s from another era. For a Lotus sports car, however, the 2018 Evora is much more refined and usable than the tiny British automaker’s previous creations. With a Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V-6 behind the 2+2 cabin, the Evora has the speed to match its razor-sharp reflexes. Just pack light and don’t expect much in the way of creature comforts.

What's New for 2018?

The 2018 Lotus Evora rolls into another model year with no major changes. Not a big surprise, considering the price and rarity of this offbeat British performance car.

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Pricing

Original MSRP:

• Base: $96,785

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Manufactured by Toyota, the Evora's supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 produces a healthy 400 horsepower and generates 302 pound-feet of torque. Some purists might be put off by the engine's Toyota lineage, but we consider it a positive. Proven mechanicals in a lightweight sports car engineered for pure driving pleasure is an excellent recipe. Evora buyers can choose either a six-speed manual gearbox, or six-speed paddle-shift automatic. Given the hardcore nature of this car, the manual transmission is more in keeping with its character.

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Fuel Economy

EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Although the Evora's cabin comes fairly well appointed with touches like heated leather-trimmed seats, attractive metal accents, power adjustments, and push-button start, this is not a car you’d want to drive every day—or choose for even a medium-distance road trip. Accommodations are tight, and the Evora is a 2+2 in name only, the rear seat being a squeeze for even small kids. Meanwhile, the tiny trunk behind the engine bay is laughably snug, and there’s virtually no interior storage. The front seats hold you firmly in place, though the padding is thin and you’ll feel every bump and jostle in the road. Much is forgiven, however, because the Evora is simply a hoot to drive.

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Infotainment and Connectivity

Like the rest of the interior, the Evora's infotainment system provides a bare minimum of convenience and connectivity. True, the 7.0-inch-display unit includes a four-speaker stereo and an auxiliary input, and it's compatible with Apple CarPlay, which is a plus. But the system looks like an afterthought in the driver-focused interior. But we doubt Evora owners will spend much time worrying about infotainment menus anyhow.

Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings

For more information about the Lotus Evora GT’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty

Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.