Lighter and faster Lotus Exige Sport 350 revealed

This is the Lotus Exige Sport 350. A lighter and faster version of the Exige, it packs the same 345bhp supercharged V6 engine but has shed 51kg of weight over the Exige S on which it's based. 

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Now tipping the scales at a featherweight 1,125kg, the weight loss comes from various areas of the car, including a new tailgate panel, lightweight engine mounts, new battery, lighter piping for the ventilation system, and optimised use of sound insulation. A lighter centre console also features, with an exposed gearshift mechanism - showing off the aluminium six-speed gearbox. An automatic is also available.

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For those wishing for an even lighter car, the extras list has lightweight options such as forged alloy wheels and drilled brake discs. If all of these are specced, the Exige Sport 350 comes in at just 1115kg. That's less than a Ford Fiesta ST.

The diet hasn't affected the engine, though. The supercharged 3.5-litre V6 generates 345bhp and 400Nm of torque which is able to power the rear-drive Exige Sport 350 from 0-62mph in just 3.9 seconds. Top speed is 170mph. 

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Lotus has given the Exige Sport 350 a revised suspension setup with firmer dampers and altered geometry, which help the car shave 2.5 seconds off the standard model's lap time around Lotus' own test track.

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Inside, it's predictably spartan - though stylish, thanks to standard sports seats and an optional bright yellow Tartan trim pack. It's also possible to spec options like an multimedia system or air-conditioning, though these will add to the weight. 

The sports car will go on sale in February priced from £55,900, with a Roadster model set to follow in March.

Let us know what you think of the Lotus Exige Sport 350 in the comments below...