VW ‘Elise’ gets in shape

This all-new roadster reveals Volkswagen is taking the fight to the Lotus Elise! Fresh from launching its Scirocco, the firm will unveil a new sports car at November’s Los Angeles Auto Show.

The mid-engined, rear-wheel-drive model takes inspiration from 2005’s funky Eco Racer concept. With power coming from a range of 2.0-litre TSI engines, performance and economy should be impressive. That’s why VW is targeting Honda’s hybrid CR-Z, as well as the Elise, with the new car.

Production is set to start early in 2010, with prices kicking off from around £20,000 – similar to the Scirocco coupé. The sportster could even form the basis of an R4 model from sister brand Audi, as well as a modern take on Porsche’s 914 – just what the 911 maker needs after a sales slump caused by economic and environmental concerns.