[supra93]

The Esprit is one of Lotus’ best known models and is still fondly remembered today.

The automaker famously announced a revival a decade ago and promised the car would return in 2013 with a bold new design as well as a supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine that produced up to 612 hp (456 kW / 620 PS). That obviously never happened, but the company hasn’t given up on the idea of bringing the Esprit back.

Fast forward to today and spy photographers have caught new pictures of the Esprit. Unfortunately, there isn’t much to see as the mule is based on the Evora and features extended wheel arches which hint at a wider track.

The production model will look nothing like this mule as it’s expected to have a modern design which is heavily influenced by the Evija. We can also expect a two-seat interior which is more luxurious and high-tech than the one found in the Evora.

Lotus hasn’t said much about the Esprit, but previous reports have suggested the car is a stop-gap model that will serve as a bridge between the existing Lotus lineup and future models. As a result, it’s expected to ride on an updated version of the Evora’s platform rather than an all-new architecture.

Little else is known about the car at this point, but could use a hybrid powertrain with a V6 engine sourced from Toyota. While a lot of details remain unclear, it’s believed the Esprit will have more than 500 hp (373 kW / 507 PS).

The Esprit was originally expected to be introduced next year, but it’s possible the coronavirus could have delayed those plans.

https://www.carscoops.com/2020/09/lo...rn-of-an-icon/

[brad850csi]

If it fits under an Evora body and has a Toyota V6 does that mean it is still east-west and basically Evora 2.0? If so that is a little disappointing

[AlexFL]

the original Esprit was a great looking car.

[Red Bread]

By that point, the S4 was ancient. I preferred it in the original form.
[IMG]https://i.pinimg.com/originals/73/49...e57a8c7e9c.jpg[/IMG]

[RM7]

Originally Posted by AlexFL

the original Esprit was a great looking car.

Well, not that one.

But I agree, that basic body style Esprit was a timeless classic.

[DocL]

I'd consider getting another Esprit. This was my 2004 FE.

[PopsnBurbles]

My dream car is an Esprit, the face lifted last generation one. 2002+.

I'd take it in any color.

[DocL]

Originally Posted by PopsnBurbles

My dream car is an Esprit, the face lifted last generation one. 2002+.

I'd take it in any color.

Sometimes that dream can end up being a nightmare.

[PopsnBurbles]

Originally Posted by DocL

Sometimes that dream can end up being a nightmare.

Just be careful with the transmission made of glass, right?

But more seriously, I know the car has its own barrage of issues but...it's so gorgeous, special, and I don't know.

It's a painful pill I am willing to attempt to swallow. Of course, if I have the resources. I'm currently in that position. I was so ready to get a 2002 Esprit but I chose dump my cash elsewhere. I am having regrets but I may be short-sighted about these regrets.

[DocL]

Originally Posted by PopsnBurbles

Just be careful with the transmission made of glass, right?

But more seriously, I know the car has its own barrage of issues but...it's so gorgeous, special, and I don't know.

It's a painful pill I am willing to attempt to swallow. Of course, if I have the resources. I'm currently in that position. I was so ready to get a 2002 Esprit but I chose dump my cash elsewhere. I am having regrets but I may be short-sighted about these regrets.

The transmission was only a problem if you shifted into second at WOT. I always wanted an Esprit and looked at a dozen of them before I found the one I posted. I didn’t have any issues while I owned it except for having to replace the brake booster. I found a spare one and it rebuilt.

I ultimately sold it and made $10k without having to pull the engine. I’d say get one knowing you’ll only keep it for two or three years. It’s a difficult to car to drive, and the creaks and rattles do drive you crazy.

[Germanauto]

Originally Posted by AlexFL

the original Esprit was a great looking car.

Not only that, it could drive underwater as well...