2021 Lotus Evora GT

Yes, Lotus is still around; and heck yes they still make some pretty awesome sports cars. The latest is an updated Evora, now known as the 2021 Evora GT.

Since we last drove this pint-sized track weapon, Lotus has changed the name from Evora 400 to Evora GT. Why? Well, because it no longer has 400-horsepower; as they’ve squeezed even more out of the Toyota-based mid-mounted supercharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, which now cranks out 416-horsepower and 317 lb-ft. of torque when equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic is also available, and allows the V6 to deliver even more torque, at 332 lb-ft.  

More power is always welcomed, but since its inception, Lotus has always been about removing weight; and with an available Carbon Pack, the GT comes in 71-lbs. lighter than the 400.  

In addition, a front lip spoiler, front wheel arch air louvers, rear wheel arch vents, and revised rear diffuser work to double the amount of downforce.

The interior is simplistic and all-business, but lots of alcantara material and contrast stitching keep it from looking like simply a race car forced into street-duty.  

Still, driving the Evora GT on the street is a bare bones and primitive experience, but it’s all worthwhile when you hit the track; which for us meant a trip to Thornburg, Virginia’s Dominion Raceway.  

Greg Carloss: "The Evora GT is a handful on the street, the clutch is heavy and so is the steering not to mention there’s basically no visibility through the back glass. But once you get it on the track, the clutch, the steering, the suspension…it all feels right at home. And when the engine gets above 4,500 RPM, the sound is fantastic all the way up to the 7,000 RPM redline. It’s all a very raw experience, but in a fun, visceral way."

2021 Lotus Evora GT pricing starts at around $97,000; and they’re on sale now. And we’ll have more Quick Spins...soon!