2021 commemorated the 25th anniversary of the luxurious Lotus Elise, and ever since 1996, its model range consisted of the original Elan and Europa, two vehicles that represent a blast from the past. Can you imagine life before a Lotus Elise? That was the tragic reality for those alive prior to the mid-'90s.
The Elise continues to define modern Lotus by maintaining the same precepts that made the carmaker a force to be reckoned with on both road and track. As for the Lotus Elise interior, it's pretty unique in a variety of ways, and this can be seen as a good or bad thing, depending on your preferences.
Without further ado, let's briefly look back at the origins and history of the Elise before discussing what makes its interior so interesting.
A Brief History Of The Lotus Elise
Over the past quarter of a century, as cars have become increasingly advanced with a whole host of modern tech, the Elise represents simplicity and class in a throwback fashion. Those impatient with the rate of change among Lotus models would argue that it hasn't changed fast enough, nor has it kept up with the times. Indeed, the Elise is still built around an extruded and bonded aluminum chassis, as it always has been.
But maybe those who like lighter cars will appreciate the Elise's low 1,600 lbs weight. This model represents the middle ground for those who like modern cars that aren't too advanced.
Lotus has an Elise model to suit everyone's tastes as well. The range begins from the Sport model and gets fancier as you progress to the Sprint and then the Cup. But the Elise comes at a hefty price tag of around $55,000 to $68,000.
Inside, the Elise has a whole host of features that help enhance its profile. But what are they? Let's find out.
The Lotus Elise Has A Small Retro Interior
Unlike many luxury cars out there, the Elise's interior is not full of advanced tech, but that's not really a bad thing. At a time when technology is becoming increasingly complicated and perhaps, for some, taking away from the soul of modern cars, this Lotus model represents a break from that trend. In fact, it is probably safe to say that most drivers won't miss any annoying technological features.
It has everything that it's supposed to have, such as a steering wheel, manual gearbox (with its beautifully exposed lineage), some pedals in the footwell, two seats, air conditioning for when it gets hot (like it had many times throughout 2021), and a heater for when it's cold.
There is a stereo to blast some tunes, and drivers can plug their phones in to play their favorite music, so the technology isn't entirely behind the times. But there are still some missing features.
Also, there isn't a lot of interior space for those who are taller and, putting it politely, larger passengers.
But for those who want to embark on longer journeys, Top Gear reckons that the car's seats should be a bit lower. Despite this, the slim seats can be pleasantly accommodating in each of the Elise models and, even though they aren't deep with prominent side bolsters, they are supportive. The Sprint model and those above it are fitted with lighter carbon fiber shells.
It's not a good idea for those who are claustrophobic to take a ride in this car if their mate happens to own one, as the width, for those with broader shoulders, would be a concern. The door sills are nice and wide, though.
Its carbon fiber can also be specified for many of the interior components, and the carbon sill plates lower the door opening by 10 mm thanks to the greater manufacturing accuracy that allows them to be fitted closer to the extruded aluminum beneath. The woven carbon adds an even racier vibe than standard, and the aluminum gearshift mechanism delivers enough in that respect.
Getting in and out can be a nightmare, but there is a way around that. Passengers just need to make sure that they leave the Elise one leg at a time, hunch up and drop their bum into the bucket seat, then fold the rest in. Once inside, there are scarce buttons to press and levers to pull, but they are easy to reach. Whoever designed this model's interior applied their logic to the task as the controls are laid out nicely. Furthermore, Lotus has had more than two decades to improve the Elise's interior, and they have done a fine job at it.
This vehicle is simple to use, and its technology is not overwhelming in an era when cars are becoming more sophisticated. The Elise is also well-designed on the whole. Lotus have done themselves proud over the last 25 years, although if you're looking for a roomy interior, this ride is not for you.