Lotus Exige S Promo Video Highlights V6 Power and New Look
Lotus has released the full promotional video for the facelifted Exige S, showcasing its supercharged V6 and aggressive styling first revealed at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
Lotus has published the full promotional video for its revised Exige S, giving a detailed look at the facelifted model’s styling and performance. The video follows an earlier teaser and arrives after the car’s public debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.
The latest Exige S moves away from its four-cylinder roots, now using the 3.5-litre supercharged V6 found in the Evora S. Lotus claims 345hp and 400Nm of torque for the new model, with a kerb weight of 1,080kg. This marks a substantial increase in power over earlier Exige variants, aimed at delivering stronger straight-line performance while retaining the car’s reputation for agile handling.
The video focuses on the Exige S’s redesigned front end, which Lotus describes as more aggressive than before. The marketing approach leans into this theme, featuring a boxer to emphasise the car’s assertive styling. The reference to a boxer in the video may also be a nod towards the Porsche Boxster, a key rival in the segment, though Lotus has not explicitly confirmed this.
Facelifted design and technical changes
The facelift brings a new front fascia, updated aerodynamics and a reworked rear wing. These changes are intended to improve both appearance and high-speed stability. The Exige S also receives chassis revisions to accommodate the larger V6 engine, including upgraded suspension and brakes. Despite the bigger engine, Lotus has kept the weight down compared to many rivals, which remains a core selling point for the brand.
Market positioning and rivals
With the new Exige S, Lotus is targeting buyers looking for a lightweight, track-focused sports car with more power than before. The car’s performance figures and pricing position it against models such as the Porsche Boxster and Cayman. The Exige S’s combination of a supercharged V6 and low weight is unusual in this class, where turbocharged four-cylinder engines are more common.
The promotional video is part of Lotus’s wider effort to revitalise its brand image and attract new customers. The company has recently focused on updating its core models and increasing its presence at major motor shows, including Frankfurt. The Exige S sits alongside the Evora S in Lotus’s range, offering a more hardcore alternative for enthusiasts.
Technical summary: Lotus Exige S (2012)
| Engine | 3.5-litre supercharged V6 (Evora S derived) |
|---|---|
| Power | 345hp |
| Torque | 400Nm |
| Kerb weight | 1,080kg |
| Debut | 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show |