The Evora represents Lotus' biggest and boldest move in over 10 years.
Although the carmaker has had a few 2+2 coupes before, such as the Elan, Elite, Eclat and Excel, the Evora is unique because of its mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration.
The last mid-engine 2+2 was Ferrari's Mondial, which ceased production back in 1995.
It is also a completely new car, built on a flexible platform.
Lotus says this platform is so versatile that sedans and even MPVs can be built on it.
Unlike its track-happy Elise and Exige, the Evora is a proper luxury sports car that offers a creditable level of comfort.
It is about the size of a Porsche 911 and like that car, its rear seats will accommodate only children.
But unlike the 911, there is no transmission tunnel to divide the rear bench, so you can stow a couple of golfbags there.
The boot itself will accommodate one set.
In front, the Evora will accommodate a 1.8m-tall driver with ease.
But in achieving its refined interior, the six speed manual Evora tips the scales at a not too flattering 1,382kg. Of course, this is still about 40kg lighter than a stick-shift 911 Carrera S.
To offset the weight gain, Lotus is using a Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre V6.
Tuned by Lotus to produce a healthy 280bhp yet delivering 100km on 12.4 litres, the V6 does its job well.
Torque is extended from low to high revs easily.
Throttle response is sharpest in Sport mode, a mode which also removes "understeer detection" and allows more wheelspin.
Big brakes are also part of the new package.
The Evora now sports huge AP Racing four-pot callipers that feel extremely reassuring and progressive to use.
As it is no longer a lightweight, its steering system is now power-assisted.
But it manages to keep the brilliant chatty character of the Elise's steering and is hugely informative.
It remains one of the best there is today, in any price bracket.
LOTUS EVORA
Engine: 3,456cc 24-valve V6 Transmission: Six-speed manual Power: 280bhp at 6,400rpm Torque: 350Nm at 4,600rpm 0-100kmh: 5.1 seconds Top speed: 261kmh Fuel consumption: 12.4 litres/100km (city) Price: $328,800 with COE Distributor: EuroSports Auto
The Evora's flavour of handling epitomises the British sports car, always light on its toes, never flatfooted, polite but with an understated wicked streak.
And when it is tuned for lumpy British roads, you are almost assured that its ride quality is going to be good.
Due credit must be given to the extremely capable and sturdy chassis, which has more than double the strength of the Elise.
It might be a tad busy at high speeds but you are always aware of what its wheels are up to, with the Pirelli P-Zeros providing tremendous mechanical grip in all conditions.
An automatic version - six-speed, torque converter, paddle shift - is expected later next year, round about the time a convertible Evora is due.
The manual version sprints to 100kmh in just 5.1 seconds despite its luxurious appointment.
Its leather-finished cockpit is a far cry from the spartan interiors seen in the Elise and Exige.
Getting in and out of the car is also a lot easier now.
And a quiet conversation is actually possible on the road. That, if nothing else, is radical for a Lotus.
