Lotus Evora Named iMotor’s Most Rated Car of 2008
The 2009 Lotus Evora has been voted “Overall Most Rated Car 2008” by iMotor readers, with an overwhelming 95 per cent approval ahead of its spring UK launch.
Lotus’s new Evora has been named “Overall Most Rated Car 2008” by readers of iMotor Magazine, topping the publication’s annual poll with a 95 per cent positive rating from nearly 40,000 votes. The result comes ahead of the car’s official launch, with first customer deliveries due in spring 2009.
iMotor’s online voting system allowed readers to ‘rate’ or ‘slate’ each new car featured during the year. The Evora’s 95 per cent approval put it well clear of rivals, with just 5 per cent voting against it. The magazine, which claims an ABCe-audited circulation of 108,600, said the Evora’s strong showing reflected its appeal among enthusiasts even before it reached showrooms.
A new direction for Lotus
First revealed at the 2008 British Motor Show, the Evora marked a shift for Lotus. Unlike the strictly two-seat Elise and Exige, the Evora is a mid-engined 2+2, offering space for two adults in front and two occasional rear seats. Lotus also planned a two-seater version with extra luggage space for markets or buyers who preferred it.
The Evora is powered by a 3.5-litre V6 producing 280 PS, mounted amidships in a lightweight chassis developed in-house. Lotus emphasised that the car would deliver the brand’s trademark handling and driver engagement, but with greater day-to-day usability than its smaller siblings. Styling was also handled internally, with the car’s proportions designed to disguise its extra cabin space.
Reader response and market anticipation
The iMotor award highlighted the anticipation building around the Evora’s arrival. Lotus’s management pointed to the result as evidence that the car’s blend of performance, design and practicality was resonating with buyers ahead of its showroom debut. With the Elise and Exige already established as favourites among track-day drivers, the Evora was intended to broaden Lotus’s reach to those seeking a more versatile sports car.
Lotus confirmed that further Evora derivatives were under development, including a convertible and a higher-performance model. For now, the focus remained on the spring 2009 launch, with the company aiming to build on the positive reaction from both the public and the press.
Evora in context
The Evora’s debut and early acclaim placed it alongside other new-generation British sports cars vying for attention in a crowded market. Its combination of mid-engine dynamics, 2+2 seating and Lotus engineering set it apart from more conventional rivals. The strong response from iMotor readers suggested that Lotus’s gamble on a more practical sports car was already paying off.
For more on the Evora’s later evolution, including the Sports Racer variant, see Lotus Evora Sports Racer revealed with upgraded kit and styling.
