UK US
← Lotus Elise · 2010-2021 · S3

Lotus Elise S3

Headline trim: Cup 250 1.8 SC — 243 bhp, 0-60 in 4.1s.

press photo
Verdict
A
BHP
243 bhp
0–60
4.1 s
Top speed
154 mph
MPG
31 mpg (US)
Used
$41,000-$76,000

Strengths

  • Best Elise dynamically
  • Toyota SC reliable
  • Last-of-line nostalgia

Weaknesses

  • Cabin still tight
  • Toyota SC charge-cooler pump
  • Final 2021 cars expensive

Notable tech

  • Bonded aluminium (refreshed)
  • Toyota 1.6 NA / 1.8 NA / 1.8 SC
  • 5MT / 6MT
  • Sport 220, Cup 220, Sprint 220, Cup 250 trims
  • Hardtop coupe option

Common issues

  • Toyota SC charge-cooler pump
  • Clutch wear
  • Soft-top wear
  • Cabin trim ageing

Engine derivatives

US-spec trims and engines offered across S3's life. Click any two rows to compare them side-by-side.

Pick two engines to compare
1.6 NA
BHP134
Torque160 Nm
0–606.5 s
Top127 mph
MPG (US)33 mpg
DriveRWD
Gearbox6MT
Sport 220 SC
BHP217
Torque250 Nm
0–604.2 s
Top147 mph
MPG (US)31 mpg
DriveRWD
Gearbox6MT
Cup 250 SC
BHP243
Torque250 Nm
0–604.1 s
Top154 mph
MPG (US)31 mpg
DriveRWD
Gearbox6MT