What engine does the Lotus Evora use?
3 Answers
The Lotus Evora is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 supercharged engine, which delivers a maximum horsepower of 405 PS, peak torque of 410 Nm, and maximum power output of 298 kW. The Lotus Evora is a sports car measuring 4385mm in length, 1845mm in width, and 1240mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2575mm. It features a 2-door, 2-seater hardtop coupe body style and comes with a 6-speed automatic manual transmission. This model adopts a mid-engine rear-wheel-drive layout, with double-wishbone independent suspension at both front and rear. The steering system utilizes mechanical hydraulic power assistance, and the vehicle employs a unibody structure.
I've researched a lot of automotive materials and know that the Lotus Evora uses Toyota's 2GR-FE engine, a 3.5-liter V6 powerplant available in both naturally aspirated and supercharged versions. Since the Evora's launch in 2009, Lotus has chosen this engine for its lightweight reliability, capable of delivering over 400 horsepower – the Evora GT model can accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just over 4 seconds. Without in-house engine manufacturing capabilities, Lotus opted for Toyota's proven unit to ensure lightweight efficiency, with a curb weight around 1.4 tons, which is crucial for sports car weight distribution. I've studied why European engines weren't selected – Toyota's durability and fuel efficiency, combined with the mid-engine layout, create more balanced handling particularly suited for mountain roads and track use. The engine's exhaust note is distinctive, making it popular among tuning enthusiasts for exhaust system upgrades. Routine maintenance isn't overly expensive either, with Toyota parts being globally accessible, reducing long-term ownership costs. I'd recommend test driving to experience this powerplant's explosive performance firsthand when considering this vehicle.
I test drove the Lotus Evora at a car show in the UK, and the engine was truly the highlight. The Toyota 3.5L V6 was incredibly powerful, with super-fast throttle response—nothing like the lag you get in old-school sports cars. It comes in naturally aspirated and supercharged versions; the 410 Sport model I drove had 410 horsepower, delivering intense acceleration, yet fuel consumption was reasonable—around 12 L/100km in the city and dropping to 9 on the highway. The engine is highly durable; a friend who owns one said it ran for five years without major repairs. The transmission and chassis are perfectly matched, offering smooth handling and precise steering without any floatiness. Lotus chose this engine for its cost-effectiveness and reliability—Toyota’s reputation for dependability means owners spend less time in the shop. The only downside might be slightly weaker low-end torque, but the engine’s roar more than makes up for it, delivering an exhilarating driving experience. It also has great tuning potential—I’ve seen turbocharged versions pushing 500 horsepower with ease, and maintenance parts from Toyota keep costs down. If you’re on a budget but love sports cars, this engine is absolutely worth considering.
