Type 121 · two-seat GT coupé

Lotus Europa S

2006–2010

A blue Lotus Europa S coupé
Photo: Calreyn88, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Years
2006–2010
Engine
2.0 GM turbocharged inline-four
Power
197–222 bhp
Weight
about 995 kg

The Europa S was Lotus's attempt at a more comfortable car on the Elise platform: a fixed-roof coupé with lower sills, a larger boot, leather and carpets, and a 2.0-litre turbocharged GM engine with 197 bhp and strong mid-range torque.

It sold slowly, with only a few hundred built, and was never offered in North America. The later Europa SE had 222 bhp and revised suspension. Today it is the overlooked member of the family and good value for someone who wants to cover distance.

Variants

VariantYearsNotes
Europa S2006–2010197 bhp.
Europa SE2008–2010222 bhp, larger brakes and wheels.

On a road trip

A good choice for touring: quieter than an Elise, with more torque and a boot that takes two soft bags. It gives away some of the sharpness, though it is still light by any normal standard.

What to check

  • Limited model-specific trim and body parts.
  • Turbo and cooling system condition.
  • Check that all recalls and updates were carried out.