Lotus Exige S Roadster Unveiled, Not Heading to America

Truth be told, the majority of us are anxiously awaiting the release of the next generation of Lotus vehicles. But until the British automaker releases the new range, we’ll have to settle for the new Exige S Roadster. Or rather we won’t, since it won’t even be making its way to American shores.

Lotus is calling this their fastest convertible ever, powered by a supercharged 3.5L V6 and mated to a six-speed manual transmission, or a six-speed paddle-shifted automatic. Even though exact figures weren’t released, the Toyota-derived V6 will deliver roughly 345-hp and 295 lb-ft of torque – the same as in the Evora S model.

Speaking of the Evora, this “new” Exige S Roadster is actually the front section of the old Exige mated to the rear section of the new Evora. Either way, Lotus claims that the Exige S Roadster will hit 60-mph in just 3.8 seconds with a top speed of 145-mph. Weighing in at a scant 2,425 lbs it is one of the world’s lightest six-cylinder convertibles available. But alas, it’ll only be going on sale in Europe and Asia, yet another fun-packed roadster American will miss out on.

GALLERY: Exige S Roadster