The hard-core Lotus Exige S (pictures)

Exige is the name Lotus gives its most hard-core model.

This is the third-generation Exige.

The Exige, classically, has been based on the Lotus Elise.

Previous generations have used engines shared with the Elise. The Exige S...does not.

Under its bonnet/boot/flap thing sits the 345-bhp, 3.5-litre supercharged V-6 you find in the Evora S.

As you can imagine...it sounds incredible.

While the Exige S is based on the Elise, its wheelbase had to be extended to fit that giant engine inside the bay.

Inside it's pretty much the same as an Elise...

...which means it's simple and a touch cramped.

That doesn't matter, though. Its light weight means you'll be grinning thanks to its awesome acceleration.