Lotus unveils lighter Exige Sport 350

Lotus has announced a new version of its Exige sports car called the Sport 350. The new Exige model is set to hit certain global market early next year.

The Lotus Exige Sport 350 is largely based on the Exige S, but there have been some significant changes. Compared to the Exige S the Sport 350 uses a lighter battery, lighter engine mounts, lightweight center console, lighter ducts for the HVAC system, “optimized” use of sound insulation and a louvered tailgate panel. As a result, the Sport 350 is about 112 pounds lighter than the S.

Power for the Exige Sport 350 is provided by a supercharged 3.5L V6 delivering 345 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. With less weight to haul around, the Exige Sport 350 can sprint from 0-60 in 3.7 seconds when coupled with an available six-speed automatic transmission. Opting for the six-speed manual adds another tick to the Sport 350′s 0-60 time. Both models have a top speed of 170mph.

Lotus has no plans to sell the Exige Sport 350 in North America, but the sports car will hit other global markets in February. Lotus will also release a roadster version of the Sport 350 in March.

The Lotus Exige Sport 350 will carry a base price of £55,900 ($84,850).