Lotus Exige 360 Cup Sheds Pounds, Adds Power

According to Lotus Motorsport, the Exige V6 Cup was redefined with the introduction of the 360 Cup. The supercharged 3.5-litre Toyota V6 already sounded pretty good but with those mods should be even more expressive, this kind of power in a vehicle with a kerbweight of just 1,130kg (around 45kg less than a standard V6 Exige) the kind of numbers we can all rally behind.

Apparently, coupled with the weight reduction and new aero package, the 360 Cup version should stand taller than its “regular” Exige S brother.

In addition to the extra grunt, the Exige 360 Cup features a Stealth matte roof, Motorsport Red accents, and a Metallic Black, Metallic Grey, Metallic Silver, or Metallic White paint job.

“The V6 Cup was a favourite amongst many knowledgeable customers with its incredible track performance and distinctive design”, said Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus plc, in the release. Lotus also says that the powertrain updates give the Exige 360 Cup a sportier soundtrack. Combined with the flat underside, the aerodynamic aids offer 42 kg (92.6 lbs) of downforce at 100 miles per hour (160 km/h).

The chassis on the Exige 360 Cup is a Lotus designed stiff and lightweight bonded aluminium chassis with double wishbone suspension all round. Handling improvements include an adjustable suspension, an electronic locking differential, and four driving modes: drive, sport, race, and the ever-exciting “off”. Other exterior enhancements include LED daytime running lights, a rear louvered cover, and 17 or 18-inch alloy wheels with Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires. The list of optional extras consists of a new red Alcantara interior, adjustable anti-roll bars, Öhlins race dampers, fire extinguisher and electrical cut-off, FIA carbon seats, air conditioning and removable steering wheel.

As with all Lotus Motorsport Cup models the Exige 360 Cup is eligible for Lotus Cup race series.

The company will only build 50 examples, each carrying a £62,995 (~$98,000 USD) price tag.