Hit or Miss? New Lotus Evora

ON THE ROAD

The Evora is surprisingly friendly around town, save for the poor rear vision that means you have to keep an eye on the mirrors or use the optional rear camera when parking.

Parking reinforces just how wide the Evora is over its rear haunches; by the time I'd snuggled it up to the gutter it was still sitting noticeably wider than a hatchback and compact 4WD either side.

It's not until you tackle some twisties that the Evora's reason for being becomes clear. Beautifully weighted steering constantly feeds information back to the driver, adding confidence and involvement to what is an immensely capable vehicle. Grip from the Pirelli tyres is high, while the meaty brakes deliver superb stopping power repeatedly.

The Evora also is poised regardless of what you throw at it, changing direction with pace and agility and sitting flat and secure through bends.
Suspension is refreshingly supple for a car with lap times in mind more than family duties. While large speed humps or steeper driveways need to be taken with care due to a propensity to scrape its underbelly, other road uglies are disposed of with respect and minimal fuss.

VERDICT

The Evora is a car that appeals to the heart more than the head. Its excellent road manners are acceptable around town and brilliant on more challenging roads. Sticky gear change aside, the Evora is one of the best driving cars on the market.

But while it has genuine sports car looks and (potentially) seating for four, it's let down by minimal standard equipment and an expensive options list that means the Evora struggles against better performing competitors that also win on practicality.