All Cars, All the Time

Lotus Europa














The Europa hasn’t gained a ringing endorsement from forum posters. Comments such as “plain,” “boring,” and “bland looking” are seemingly mentioned over and over. The car does have its champions, I rather like it, but when going up against the Porsche Cayman it might be a tough sell. The big draw for Elise/Exige fans is the car's rough edges, something that the Europa looks to sand down in its quest to create a "business class" driving experience. For now US and Canadian buyers won't have to worry about making a choice as the Europa won't be offered for sale on our shores. At one point it was assumed that the Europa was going to be built in Malaysia by Lotus’ owner Proton (and perhaps badged as one as well?). However, the Lotus jigs and fixtures were dismantled and shipped back to the UK. The Europa is scheduled to begin production in Hethel, Norfolk in July of this year. By the way, want to take a factory tour in England? Call well in advance. I tried to book a tour in August of last year, but was told that tours were booked until 2006. To book a tour or for more information call 01953 608547, or email alancaster@lotuscars.co.uk