Lotus Evora 3.5 V6 review

"Is it really better than a Porsche 911?"

The handling of most modern cars is fine tuned by a committee of development drivers. Usually one tester does the brakes, another concentrates on the steering, someone else the tyres and then they all argue about the suspension. Lotus can’t afford to do this. Instead the nuances of how the Evora feels to drive are pretty much down to one man. His name is Matt Becker. All the hard work of Lotus’ engineers rests on his shoulders. No pressure then.

So has he done a good job?

Before we answer this question we need to look at the brief. The Evora is supposed to be a grown up sports cars that’s as easy to live with as a Porsche 911, yet still delivers the fun and frolics of an Elise. That’s quite a big ask.

As you are probably aware the Evora is the world’s only mid-engined 2+2. But although I did manage to squeeze into the rear seats, I have to say they are only really suitable for children or as a method of torture. It’s a completely different story in the front, though. The car’s cabin is easy to get into, has enough headroom for a basketball player and the seats are comfier than those in a Volvo. And that’s high praise indeed.

And on the inside?

The interior is quite attractive and better than in any other Lotus I can remember. However, it does still have that small car company feel and smell, though. But you soon forget about this once on the move. And when you are, the first thing that hits you about the Evora is just how well it rides. It’s like nothing Lotus has done before. You can drive over rumble strips and cat’s eyes without your fillings falling out. In fact it’s so smooth your love handles probably won’t even wobble. Actually, the car is so comfortable it can feel a bit boring.

How's that engine?

But spool up the gutsy 280hp 3.5-litre V6 engine and you soon discover the Evora has a dark side. A side that’s pure Lotus. You really can have as much fun in it as an Elise. More in fact. That’s partly because you know there will be no need for a trip to the chiropractor afterwards, but mainly because the Evora’s chassis is much stiffer and much better judged.  The result is bags of feedback and massive dollops of grip. And then there’s the steering. Oh the steering. I reckon it’s the best bit. It’s even sweeter than a Porsche Cayman’s.  Really!

So then Matt Becker, and the rest of team Lotus, I take my hat off to you all. The Evora is a superb sports car. In fact it’s so good it makes you proud to be British.

by Mat Watson