The Lotus Exige III S Coupe Sport 350, produced from February 2016 to 2018, represents a focused iteration of the Exige lineage. Positioned as a high-performance variant within the broader Exige III range (based on the 1HX0/A3 platform), the Sport 350 distinguished itself with a supercharged V6 engine and, notably, an automatic transmission option. This configuration aimed to broaden the Exige’s appeal, offering a more accessible entry point to the Lotus driving experience without entirely sacrificing the car’s core performance characteristics. While Lotus is a British manufacturer, the Exige found a niche market in the United States among enthusiasts seeking a raw, driver-focused sports car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lotus |
| Model | Exige |
| Generation | Exige III S Coupe |
| Type | Sport 350 3.5 V6 (350 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2016 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 13.4 l/100 km (17.6 US mpg, 21.1 UK mpg, 7.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 219 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 261 km/h (162.18 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.2 kg/Hp, 309.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.8 kg/Nm, 354 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 350 Hp @ 7000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 4500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Middle, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FE |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC – VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.1 l (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14 l (14.79 US qt | 12.32 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1130 kg (2491.22 lbs) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Length | 4084 mm (160.79 in) |
| Width | 1802 mm (70.94 in) |
| Height | 1129 mm (44.45 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2370 mm (93.31 in) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/45 R17; 265/35 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Exige Sport 350 lies the Toyota-sourced 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine, transversely mounted and mid-engined, benefits from a supercharger and intercooler, boosting output to 350 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with Variable Valve Timing-intelligent (VVT-i) technology. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, specifically tuned for the Exige’s performance characteristics. While the exact transmission origin isn’t always explicitly stated, it’s a robust unit designed to handle the engine’s power output. The engine code 2GR-FE is well-regarded for its reliability when properly maintained.
Driving Characteristics
The Sport 350 Automatic offered a different driving experience compared to its manual transmission counterparts. While the manual provided a more direct connection to the car, the automatic aimed for usability. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was quoted at around 3.6-3.8 seconds, a figure still impressive for a sports car. The automatic transmission, while quick-shifting, did introduce a slight compromise in responsiveness compared to the manual. Gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and cruising, but the automatic’s programming prioritized smooth shifts over outright aggression. The car’s lightweight construction (1130 kg / 2491 lbs) helped mitigate some of the performance loss associated with the automatic, providing a surprisingly engaging driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Exige Sport 350, even in its base automatic form, was relatively well-equipped for a focused sports car. Standard features included air conditioning, power windows, and a basic audio system. The interior featured sport seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara. Optional extras were plentiful, allowing buyers to customize their Exige with features like upgraded audio systems, navigation, and various carbon fiber trim pieces. The dashboard layout was minimalist, prioritizing functionality over luxury. The focus remained on creating a driver-centric environment.
Chassis & Braking
The Exige III S Coupe utilized a lightweight, bonded aluminum chassis, a hallmark of Lotus engineering. Suspension consisted of double wishbones at both the front and rear, providing excellent handling characteristics. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs on all four wheels, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The car’s relatively low weight contributed to its impressive braking performance. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to minimize body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned for a firm ride, prioritizing handling precision over comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Exige Sport 350 Automatic received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its performance and handling. However, the automatic transmission was often seen as a compromise by purists. Compared to the manual version, the automatic offered slightly slower acceleration and a less engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was reasonable for a high-performance sports car, averaging around 25 US mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although maintenance costs could be high due to the car’s specialized components and the need for regular servicing. Compared to other cars in its price range, such as the Porsche Cayman, the Exige offered a more raw and visceral driving experience, albeit with less refinement.
Legacy
The Lotus Exige III S Coupe Sport 350 Automatic has established itself as a desirable used sports car. The 2GR-FE engine is known for its durability, and the automatic transmission, while not as popular as the manual, has proven to be reliable. Values have remained relatively stable, reflecting the car’s unique appeal and limited production numbers. Today, the Sport 350 represents a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, high-performance sports car with a touch of practicality offered by the automatic transmission. Its focus on driving dynamics and minimalist design continue to resonate with those who appreciate a pure and engaging driving experience.
