Evora takes its first steps

The Eagle has hit the ground running! Norfolk-based Lotus officially unveiled its Evora at the recent British Motor Show, laying the Project Eagle name to rest. And now, the firm’s first new car in more than a decade can roam undisguised.

It was caught by our spies undergoing final testing before production begins. And as the sleek body is no longer a secret, Lotus’s engineers are free to complete development of the four-seat coupé without the restrictions imposed by a cumbersome cover-up kit.

As a result, vital on-the-road aerodynamic testing can take place, so minor adjustments can be made to the shape to improve airflow. The team can also ensure the body’s vents provide enough cooling air for the engine and brakes.

Power comes from a Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre V6 producing 276bhp. That means the Evora is expected to cover 0-60mph in less than five seconds, yet return more than 30mpg and emit less than 225g/km of CO2.

But the only mid-engined 2+2 currently in production is not exclusively about outright performance – there is also plenty of luxury kit in the cabin.

The model you see here is the standard version, although you can expect to spot development prototypes gliding around the roads near the factory in Hethel for some time. That’s because a raft of Evora variants are set to appear over the car’s planned eight-year lifespan.

A 320bhp model will become available shortly after the Evora arrives in showrooms. An even more powerful supercharged range-topper will be added to the line-up in 2011, alongside a two-seater, before the range is completed by a convertible.

The price of the entry-level model has not been revealed, but is set to cost about £45,000. First customers are due to take their cars home in the spring.

If you can’t wait until then, Auto Express is giving one lucky reader the chance to drive the Evora. Our great competition prize also includes a tour of the factory. Just click on the 'competitions' tab near the top right-hand corner of the page for details!