Lotus Elise 2007 problems
The Lotus Elise is a sports car conceived in early 1994 and released in September 1996 by the British manufacturer Lotus Cars. A two-seater roadster with a rear mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout, the Elise has a fibreglass body shell atop its bonded extruded aluminium chassis that provides a rigid platform for the suspension, while keeping weight and production costs to a minimum. The Elise was named after Elisa Artioli, the granddaughter of Romano Artioli who was chairman of Lotus and Bugatti at the time of the car's launch.
Production of the Elise, Exige and Evora ended in 2021. It was replaced by the Lotus Emira.
Series 1
The 1996 Lotus Elise weighed 725 kg (1,598 lb). Because of this low weight, it was able to accelerate 0-60 mph (97 km/h) in 5.8 seconds despite its relatively low power output of 118 bhp (88 kW; 120 PS). Braking and fuel consumption are also improved by the car's reduced weight. Cornering is helped by a low centre of gravity height of 470 mm (18½").
Series 1 was designed by Julian Thomson, then head of design at Lotus, and Richard Rackham, Lotus's chief engineer.
Besides the standard higher-performance variants listed below, Lotus also released some limited edition models such as Sport 135 (1998/9) with approximately 145 bhp (108 kW; 147 PS), Sport 160 (2000) with 150–160 bhp (112–119 kW; 152–162 PS), and Sport 190 (190 bhp (142 kW; 193 PS)). These were more competent on track with sports suspension, wheels and tyres, seats according to model. There were other special editions such as the 50th Anniversary Edition (green/gold) celebrating 50 years of Lotus cars, the Type 49 ("Gold Leaf" red and white two-tone), and Type 79 ("JPS" black/gold) which refers to its successful Grand Prix car type numbers.
The Series 1 Lotus Elise was assembled from kits on a dedicated assembly line at Proton's Shah Alam factory between 1997 and 2003. The drivetrain was imported complete and initially the bodywork was painted in the UK at Hethel prior to export. The Malaysian-assembled Elise sold for double the price of its British-built counterpart due to local vehicle taxes. The Malaysian-assembled Elise was also exported to regional markets, including Japan, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand. The Malaysian spec Elises came with a factory hard top, carpets and air con as standard though the air con was unreliable and ineffective. All cars had MMC brakes as that was what was current when the kits were imported in the late 1990s. The Proton-assembled Elises were assigned the code 'B' in the eleventh VIN position, while the original Hethel-built units were stamped with the code 'H'.
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Common Lotus Elise 2007 problems
The Lotus Elise, a beloved sports car, is known for its performance and handling, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the issues that 2007 Lotus Elise owners have reported:
- Roof Leaks: The clip-on roof of the Lotus Elise can leak, causing water intrusion into the cabin. This issue can be more pronounced in older models or those that have been exposed to harsh weather conditions. When checking a used Elise, ensure the roof is securely attached and look for signs of water damage in the cabin.
- Immobilizer Troubles: In the past, Lotus Elise immobilizers have experienced troubles, which could lead to electrical glitches. It's crucial to check the service history for any signs of electrical issues and ensure the immobilizer is functioning correctly.
- Radiator Hose Leaks: Radiator hoses on the Lotus Elise have a habit of leaking, which can lead to overheating and engine damage. When inspecting a used Elise, thoroughly check the radiator hoses for any signs of leaks or damage.
- Head Gasket Failure: One of the most worrying issues for Lotus Elise owners is the potential for head gasket failure. This problem can be caused by mistreatment, such as revving the engine hard from cold. When checking a used Elise, look for signs of head gasket failure, such as oil in the coolant or a white residue under the oil filler cap.
- Aging Electronics: Over time, the aging electronics in the Lotus Elise can cause problems. These issues can range from minor annoyances, like interior trim pieces becoming brittle and causing squeaks and rattles, to more significant problems, like malfunctioning climate control systems.
- Brake Rotor Wear: The Lotus Elise's brake rotors have a reputation for wearing quickly, especially if the car is driven hard or tracked regularly. Before purchasing a used Elise, it's essential to check the brake rotors for signs of excessive wear and ensure they have been replaced or serviced as needed.
- Rear Suspension Issues: In some cases, owners have reported rear suspension toe link failures, particularly in cars that have been tracked. When inspecting a used Elise, it's crucial to check the rear suspension for any signs of damage or wear.
- Body Damage: The Lotus Elise's fiberglass bodywork can be expensive to repair or replace, especially in the event of a minor accident. When checking a used Elise, look for any signs of body damage, such as cracks, dents, or other imperfections.
- Trunk Release Cable Snap: The trunk release cable in the Lotus Elise can snap, making it difficult to access the trunk. This issue is more common in older models, so it's essential to check the trunk release cable for any signs of wear or damage.
- Window Alignment: On early Lotus Elise models, the side windows can fall out of alignment, making it difficult to close the doors properly. When checking a used Elise, ensure the windows are correctly aligned and that the doors close smoothly.
By being aware of these common problems, potential Lotus Elise owners can make informed decisions when purchasing a used vehicle and be better prepared for any maintenance or repairs that may be necessary.
Is a Lotus Elise reliable?
Unfortunately, though, the world isn't getting many more cheap sports cars, and even at its current values the Lotus Elise is a great value. Quick, beautiful, relatively reliable, always entertaining, and a little bit eccentric, it's an attainable dream car. Even if you weren't 16 when it came out.
Does Lotus Elise have Toyota engine?
The Elise S is the new base model with a Toyota sourced 1.8 L (1,796 cc) engine replacing the previous models K series Rover engine. The 2ZZ-GE engine produces 189 bhp (141 kW; 192 PS) at 6,200 rpm (a considerable increase over the 120 bhp or 89 kW or 122 PS of the Rover engine).
What is the top speed of the 2007 Lotus Elise?
The Elise is powered by a 190 hp @ 7,800 rpm 1.8 Liter, Mid-Mounted 4-cylinder with DOHC & Variable Valve Timing. It will sprint from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 150 mph.
Does Lotus Elise rust?
The chassis is anodised which helps in protecting it against corrosion but this does not give the Elise immunity from corrosion problems. The chassis can corrode and, given the age of S1's now with some having been used in all weathers, I'm quite sure there will be some out there with some fairly bad corrosion.
Lotus Elise 2007 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Lotus Elise problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Engine problems
- Fuel/propulsion system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Lotus Elise 2007 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Lotus Elise 2007 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Lotus Elise 2007.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-04
- VIN: SCCPC111X7H
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE 2007+ LOTUS ELISE/ EXIGE ARE ALL EQUIPPED WITH A SHIFTER THAT IS PRONE TO FAILURE. I HAVE PERSONALLY HAD A BROKEN SHIFTER WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY AND WAS STUCK AT THE 3RD GEAR AND ALMOST GOT INTO A CAR ACCIDENT. MANY HAVE ALSO REPORTED THE SAME SITUATION. IT'S BELIEVED TO BE TRUE THAT THE BALL JOINT STRUCTURE AT THE PIVOT POINT ON THE BOTTOM OF THE SHIFTER IS THE MAIN REASON TO THIS FAILURE. ALMOST EVERY CASE THAT HAS SURFACED ON INTERNET HAS SHOWN THE IDENTICAL BROKEN STRUCTURE WHICH WE CALLED THE "BLUE BALL". IT IS MADE WITH PLASTIC AND IS COMMONLY SHATTERED IN PIECES, AND THAT HAPPENS, THE ENTIRE SHIFTER IS LOOSE AND BROKEN.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-20
- VIN: SCCPC11177H
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS ON THE FREEWAY DRIVING AT FREEWAY SPEEDS IN THE #1 LANE WHEN I SMELLED BURNING OIL. I HADN'T NOTICED THE CAR PERFORMING DIFFERENTLY SO I LOOKED AHEAD TO THE FORWARD CARS FOR THE 'GROSS POLLUTER' CAUSING THE SMELL. I DIDN'T SEE ANYONE WITH MY FIRST FORWARD INSPECTION. I THEN IMMEDIATELY NOTICED THE OIL LIGHT LIT ON THE DASH. AT THE SAME INSTANT I LOOKED OUT OF THE SIDE MIRROR AND SAW SMOKE POURING FROM MY CAR. (THIS HAPPENED VERY QUICKLY AND I MAY HAVE NOTICED THE REAR SMOKE BEFORE THE OIL LIGHT.) I QUICKLY PUT THE CAR INTO NEUTRAL, DRIFTED THROUGH 3 LANES OF TRAFFIC TO THE NEXT EXIT WHICH WAS WITHIN 1000 OR SO FEET. I DRIFTED OFF THE EXIT ONTO THE MAIN STREET AND INTO THE GAS STATION ON THE CORNER. MY WIFE CAME SOON AFTER AND NOTICED THE LARGE OIL SPILL ON THE FREEWAY ROAD SURFACE WHERE IT OCCURRED. WHEN I WENT TO INSPECT THE CAR WHEN I STOPPED AT THE GAS STATION I SAW SEVERAL OIL PUDDLE FORMING IN THE REAR ON THE GROUND (IN THE MIDDLE AND ON THE PASSENGER SIDE), THE REAR OF THE CAR WAS COVERED IN OIL, THE PASSENGER REAR WHEEL WAS COVERED IN OIL INCLUDING THE BRAKING SYSTEM ON THAT SIDE, OIL WAS DRIPPING FROM THE BOTTOM OF THE CAR ONTO THE GROUND, AND SMOKE WAS POURING FROM THE ENGINE BAY. WHEN I OPENED THE ENGINE BAY IT WAS SMOKING AND COVERED WITH OIL. I WAS A LITTLE CONCERNED THAT IT COULD CATCH FIRE, HOWEVER IT DIDN'T. I CALLED A TOW TRUCK AND TOWED IT TO MY MECHANIC. AFTER THE EVENT I WAS WONDERING ABOUT THE CARS BEHIND ME ON THE FREEWAY AND WHAT IT WAS LIKE FOR THEM FOLLOWING ME AFTER MY CAR RELEASED 10 QUARTS OF OIL ONTO THE FREEWAY AND ONTO THEIR WINDSHIELDS. I LATER FOUND OUT THAT THE OIL LINE COUPLING HAD FAILED IN THE REAR. THIS WAS THE SECOND TIME THAT THIS OCCURRED TO ME WITH THIS CAR. *TR
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-11
- VIN: SCCPC11177H
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS ON THE FREEWAY AND MOVED INTO THE #2 LANE AND WAS ACCELERATING. I LOOKED OUT MY REARVIEW MIRROR AND SAW WHAT I THOUGHT WAS A DUST CLOUD BEHIND ME. I LOOKED AT THE ROAD IN FRONT OF ME EXPECTING TO SEE SOME DIRT ON THE ROAD, BUT THERE WASN'T ANY. I LOOKED BACK AND IT SEEMED THAT IT WAS LIKE A DIRTY BROWN SMOKE. I WAS MY CAR. (I LATER REALIZED THE CLOUD WAS A SPRAY OF OIL MIST.) I WAS GOING 65 OR 70 MPH AND DIDN'T NOTICE ANYTHING UNUSUAL WITH THE DRIVABILITY. I LOOKED AT MY INSTRUMENT PANEL & NOTICED THE OIL LIGHT WAS ON. I SHOT OVER TO THE EXIT AND TO THE OFF-RAMP. THE CAR SEEMED TO BE STRAINING ON THE OFF RAMP AND ON THE VERGE OF STALLING BUT IT WAS STILL RUNNING. I COULDN'T STOP ON THE OFF RAMP AND LUCKILY I HAD A GREEN LIGHT SO I TURNED RIGHT AND THEN RIGHT AGAIN AT THE NEXT BLOCK AND PULLED INTO A COMMERCIAL DRIVEWAY AND SHUT THE CAR OFF. I PROBABLY DROVE A TOTAL OF ABOUT A HALF MILE WITH THE OIL LEAKING OUT. THERE WAS A TRAIL OF OIL ON THE ROAD AND A PUDDLE DEVELOPED UNDER THE CAR WHERE I STOPPED. WHEN I GOT OUT TO INSPECT THE CAR I FOUND THE PASSENGER SIDE OF THE CAR AND BACK OF THE CAR (AND UNDERNEATH) WAS COVERED IN OIL. BOTH THE FRONT AND REAR PASSENGER WHEELS WERE COVERED IN OIL. NO OIL WAS ON THE DRIVER SIDE AT ALL. THE OIL LEAK / LOSS SEEMED TO BE IN THE FRONT OF THE CAR AND ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. IT WAS I DON'T RECALL ANYTHING ODD HAPPENING WITH THE CAR. IT DIDN'T FEEL LIKE I HIT ANYTHING OR THAT ANYTHING??BROKE?? AS I WAS DRIVING IT. THE OIL CLOUD?? IN MY REAR VIEW MIRROR WAS MY FIRST SIGN THAT SOMETHING HAD HAPPENED. I LATER FOUND OUT FROM MY MECHANIC THAT THE OIL LINE COUPLING HAD FAILED IN THE FRONT WHERE IT CONNECTED TO THE OIL COOLER. AFTER THE EVENT I WONDERED ABOUT THE CARS BEHIND ME ON THE FREEWAY AND WHAT IT WAS LIKE FOR THEM FOLLOWING ME AFTER THE RELEASE OF 10 QUARTS OF OIL ONTO THE FREEWAY AND THEIR WINDSHIELDS. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-05-10
- VIN: SCCPC11157H
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: SECOND TIME THIS HAS HAPPENED. RECEIVED NEW ENGINE FROM LOTUS 4/21/2012 AND HAD ABOUT 700 MILES ON NEW ENGINE. WAS DRIVING ON RESIDENTIAL STREET IN MID GEARS. NOTED SOME ODD ENGINE RATTLING NOISES BRIEFLY. SECONDS LATER, STRONG SMELL OF GASOLINE WHICH DISSIPATED. THEN SAW FLICKERING INSTRUMENT PANEL WARNING LIGHTS WHICH STOPPED BUT RESUMED AND WAS LOW OIL LIGHT WHICH WENT OUT AND THEN CAME ON FULL. STOPPED IMMEDIATELY AND TURNED OFF ENGINE. CAR WAS TOWED BY FLAT BED BACK TO LOTUS DEALER IN NJ. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-03-19
- VIN: SCCPC11157H
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: AWARE OF NHTSA RECALL # 11V-510 HAVING RECEIVED LETTER FROM LOTUS CARS USA BUT WAS TOLD THIS VEHICLE WAS PROBABLY NOT AFFECTED. MONITORED FOR SIGNS OF OIL LEAKAGE ANYWAY BUT SAW NOTHING: NO CHANGE IN OIL LEVEL ON DIPSTICK CHECKS, NO SIGNS OF OIL UNDER CAR. WHILE ACCELERATING ON EXPRESSWAY, HAD LOW OIL WARNING LIGHT COME ON AND NOTICED SOME DIFFICULTY STEERING DUE TO SLICKNESS AS CAR WAS BROUGHT TO A SAFE HALT AS QUICKLY AS POSSIBLE. RIGHT SIDE OF CAR WAS COVERED IN OIL, APPARENTLY ORIGINATING AT OIL COOLER LOCATED IN FRONT OF RIGHT FRONT WHEEL WELL. CAR WAS TAKEN TO LOTUS DEALER AND OIL LINE WAS REPORTED TO HAVE BURST. AFTER FIXING, WAS TOLD THERE WAS SOUND OF CYLINDER DAMAGE IN ENGINE. LOTUS WILL BE REPLACING THE ENGINE AT THEIR COST PER DEALER'S REPORT TO ME ON 4/3/2012.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-19
- VIN: SCCPC11107H
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WAS DRIVING MY 2007 LOTUS ELISE WHEN THE OIL HOSE PULLED OUT OF THE CRIMPED FITTING AT THE RIGHT REAR CONNECTION TO THE ENGINE JUST ABOVE THE OIL FILTER. THIS CAUSED ALL OF THE OIL TO QUICKLY LEAVE THE ENGINE AND COAT THE RIGHT REAR TIRE. I WAS LUCKY I WAS DRIVING STRAIGHT ON A HIGHWAY AT THE TIME AND WAS ABLE TO SAFELY PULL OVER. HAD THIS HAPPENED ON A CORNER, WITH TRACTION LOST ON THE REAR TIRE THE RESULTS COULD HAVE BEEN SIGNIFICANTLY DIFFERENT.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-01
- VIN: SCCPC11147H
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DRIVING IN SECOND GEAR AND CHANGING INTO THIRD GEAR THE RADIATOR EXPLODED AND SPLASHED HOT COOLANT ALL OVER THE WINDSHIELD. FORTUNATELY I HAD THE ROOF ON, OTHERWISE THE HOT COOLANT COULD HAVE LANDED ON ME OR MY 8 YR. OLD SON. LOTUS USES A TERRIBLY DESIGNED RADIATOR THAT HAS PLASTIC EDGES, WHICH BECOME BRITTLE AND EXPLODE OVER TIME. THIS IS A COMMON DOCUMENTED ISSUE ON WWW.LOTUSTALK.COM. WHY THEY DO NOT USE AN ALL ALUMINUM RADIATOR, IS BEYOND ME.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-10
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1. NOTHING WAS OBVIOUS LEADING YOU TO THE EVENT. 2. FAILURE ONLY OCCURRED ONCE, BUT CAUSED ENGINE FAILURE. 3. ENGINE WAS REPLACED ENTIRELY. *TR
Lotus Elise 2007 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Lotus Elise 2007.
- Manufacturer: Lotus Cars USA, Inc.
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: Lotus is recalling certain model year 2007-2008 Elise and Exige vehicles manufactured from December 1, 2006, through October 31, 2007. The oil cooler line may become detached from its fitting.
- Consequence: A detached oil line could spray oil on a tire, increasing the risk of a crash, or it could spray oil throughout the engine compartment increasing the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Lotus will notify owners, and dealers will replace the oil cooler hose fittings and the entire lateral oil cooler hose, free of charge. The safety recall began on March 4, 2013. Owners may contact Lotus at 1-800-245-6887.
- Manufacturer: LOTUS CARS LTD
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LOTUS IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2005-2007 ELISE AND EXIGE VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 2004, THROUGH NOVEMBER 30, 2006. THE OIL COOLER LINE MAY BECOME DETACHED FROM ITS FITTING.
- Consequence: A DETACHED OIL LINE COULD SPRAY OIL ON A TIRE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH, OR IT COULD SPRAY OIL THROUGHOUT THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT INCREASING THE RISK OF A FIRE.
- Remedy: LOTUS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS, AND DEALERS WILL REPAIR THE VEHICLES AS NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON OR BEFORE DECEMBER 19, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT LOTUS AT 1-800-245-6887.
Negative Lotus Elise 2007 car reviews
Positive Lotus Elise 2007 car reviews
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I'm so glad to hear that you enjoyed your Lotus Elise! It's definitely a car that brings a lot of joy and excitement. The handling is truly exceptional and it's amazing how it outperforms even much more expensive cars. Plus, with its reliable Toyota engine, maintenance is a breeze and parts are easy to find. It's great to know that this car is appreciating in value too - a testament to its unique and special qualities. If you haven't had the chance to drive a Lotus before, you're in for a real treat. And the best part? It's a very low maintenance and reliable car. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!
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The Lotus Elise is a really fun car to drive, and it's definitely worth getting used to. I found it a little tricky to get in and out of at first, being 6 foot 2 inches and 205 pounds, but after about 2 weeks, it felt normal. The Elise is incredibly easy to maneuver, and it's forgiving, especially for a RWD sports car. However, it's not the best choice for rough roads or long trips, especially with the stage II exhaust fitted, as you'll feel every bump and the engine noise can be a bit much. That being said, the Lotus Elise is an amazing car, and it's perfect for daily driving. It's hard to find anything on the market that comes close in terms of performance and looks for the same price.
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I've owned a few so-called sports cars over the years, including a Corvette, a Viper, and a Porsche. But pound for pound and dollar for dollar, no car can match the Lotus Elise for pure fun, driveability, and performance. Sure, it doesn't have a 600 horsepower engine, and it doesn't come with a six-figure price tag. But take the Elise out on twisty, winding roads, and watch as the power cars eat your dust!
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I have found the Elise to be very comfortable for extended trips. While the 05 model has poor seats and poorly spaced pedals, the 06 model makes up for it. I have never driven a car that puts a smile on my face for so long. It's like having a new toy every day of the year for the rest of my life! However, the dealer cooperation could be improved.
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It's almost impossible to get into the car with the top on, and it's not much better with the top off. However, once you're in, you won't want to get out. This car is the best value for your money and the most attention-grabbing car I've ever owned (and I've owned quite a few!). It's like driving a street-legal race car that makes you smile from ear to ear. While some cars may go faster in a straight line or brake a little better, nothing else on the market can match this car's handling, braking, and acceleration. Colin Chapman's legacy lives on through this car, and I'm grateful for it.
Additional sources
More sources of information about Lotus Elise 2007 problems:
Lotus Elise Common Issues/Problems? | The Lotus Cars Community
Jan 2, 2016 ... Lotus Elise Common Issues/Problems? · 1. These cars have large (i.e. dangerous) blind spots. · 2. The horns are way too weak (quiet). · 3. The ...
Is the Elise reliability really that bad? : r/lotus
Jan 17, 2024 ... both headlight mounts failed (held on with zip ties, very common). · one front turn signal mount failed, bungee cord mod fix · one side marker ...
Exige Common Issues | The Lotus Cars Community
Feb 8, 2013 ... Lotus cars seem to have a few minor annoyances but not to many major issues. The biggest weakness are the oil lines, but that was rectified by ...
Lotus Elise Buyer's Guide - S2 Common Issues, Problems, Pricing
Jun 23, 2020 ... The trunk release cable can snap, and on early cars, the side windows can fall out of alignment. There was even a recall to fix gear shifters ...
Is anyone having problems with their Lotus Elise? - Quora
Nov 2, 2010 ... Almost everyone regretted it. Depending on where you lived and when you drove it, the frames had a tendency to rust out. Because it had a ...
Kristoffer Harber 2024-05-17
Hi there! Just wanted to share my experience with this car. I bought it brand new and have only put on 2200 miles per year. Unfortunately, I did have a few issues with it such as the headlight flying out when the car was only a week old and the radiator hoses blowing three times, which left me stranded on the side of the road. However, I'm hopeful that the manufacturer will address these issues and improve the build quality. Thanks for listening!
German Bogan 2024-03-14
The car is definitely fun to drive, but I did have a bit of trouble getting in despite my height of 5'7
Raymond Ortiz 2024-02-27
If you prioritize comfort in a car, the Elise may not be the best choice for you. However, if sublime handling is what you're after, the Elise is a purpose-built machine that delivers just that. Its exceptional handling is evident on any backroad or cloverleaf. The Elise's focus on performance means that it does not come packed with heavy luxury features, and the seats have minimal padding. Getting in and out of the car may require some advanced yoga training. If you're someone who values performance above all else, the Elise is a great choice. I personally love my Elise.