Lotus has done a limited edition - only 50 will be made - of a hardcore edition of a pretty focused car as it is. The end result is the Exige 360 Cup, perhaps the best thing in the world to take to a track day.
Exterior
Building off the Exige Cup, which in turn is a development of the Exige V6 S, the 360 has new lightweight panels and some subtly evolved styling from a 'normal' Cup. There are four colours to choose from - all metallics, they are white, grey, black and silver - and all feature a stealth matt black roof, front access panel and louvred tailgate, all of which are unique to the 360. The aero pack from the V6 Cup is carried over, generating 42kg of downforce at 160km/h. A further final 360 signifier is the set of Motorsport Red wheels.
Interior
There will be a numbered Lotus Motorsport build plate inside the 360 Cup to denote which car it is of the 50-strong build, while an embroidered dash panel/seats mark it out too. Options within include a new, red Alcantara interior, FIA carbon seats, air conditioning, a removable steering wheel and a fire extinguisher coupled with electrical cut-off.
Mechanicals
The number in the 360's name refers to its horsepower, up 10hp on a standard V6 Cup thanks to freer flowing induction and a sports exhaust system. As standard, the 360 Cup has two-way adjustable suspension and a four-dynamic mode system with launch control, as well as grooved brake discs for better stopping power. Options here include adjustable anti-roll bars and Öhlins race dampers, with the 360 Cup weighing in at just 1,130kg.
Anything else?
Jean-Marc Gales, CEO of Group Lotus, said: "The V6 Cup was a favourite among many knowledgeable customers with its incredible track performance and distinctive design. I am excited about the introduction of the new 360 Cup, which moves the game forward with striking new design features and performance upgrades that offer phenomenal ability on road and track."
The Exige 360 Cup is on sale now, with its UK price of £62,995 roughly translating as €88,575 at current exchange rates; obviously, with our tax and import laws, it would cost a lot more to bring a 360 to Ireland. However, as with all Lotus Motorsport Cup models, the Exige 360 is eligible for Lotus Cup race series.