2009 Lotus Elise

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Exterior - What the Auto Press Says

Reviewers report that the Elise's exterior is designed to enhance its performance capabilities. What's more, it looks bold and aggressive. Though it features a standard soft-top, a removable hardtop is also available. Car shoppers who love the Elise's wild style, but not the idea of having a convertible top should try its sibling, the Lotus Exige, on for size.

• "Countless cars are described as 'aggressive,' but the Elise truly looks the part, with its huge air intakes behind the doors; its long, sloped headlight covers; and its ground-hugging stance." -- Cars.com
• "The Lotus Elise is slightly smaller than a Mazda MX-5 Miata, but its exterior styling is far wilder, with elongated elliptical headlamps, sweeping broad-shouldered bodylines, large side scoops and wide air intakes on the lower fascia and at the rear fenders. A black cloth top is standard, with a removable body-colored hard top optional." -- Forbes
• "The soft top is a gem, easy to install and snug fitting. It keeps wind and water out, and when removed rolls easily into something the size and shape of a runner carpet. At that point, it stores easily in the trunk. The hard top, in turn, takes several minutes to remove or install with multiple allen bolts. When removed, it cannot be stored in the vehicle, so has to be left behind, in your garage. Assuming security is not a major issue and the car will be used in warmer climates, go for the soft top alone. But some owners love the top for its styling, the security it provides, and use for track events." -- New Car Test Drive