Lotus has stepped into the modern era with its brand-new Electric SUV, designed to take on big names like Lamborghini Urus, Range Rover Sport, Audi RSQ8 e-tron, Maserati Quattroporte, and Ferrari Purosangue. What's unique is that this SUV runs on electric power, making it a standout in its segment.
Its design is eye-catching, with broad and low face sporting headlamps within the grille. The 23-inch wheels give it a sturdy look, while the rear stands out with a thin light bar and adjustable split wing elements.
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Inside, the cabin design breaks away from tradition. It feels spacious with a unique blend of elements. There's a minimalist race car-inspired display for crucial information and a massive 15-inch touchscreen. However, the touchscreen could be more user-friendly and tends to lag at times. A striking detail is the gold accents on the console, steering, and front seat headrests.
Space-wise, it's roomy with ample head and shoulder room. You can opt for either a four-seat or five-seat model. Loaded with features, it boasts dual-zone climate control, powered seats, wireless charging, a top-notch sound system, and advanced safety systems that even detect people nearby.
Now, let's talk about performance. The Eletre packs serious power - a 112kWh battery and dual electric motors delivering a massive 905bhp/1,000Nm. Acceleration is mind-blowing, hitting 0-100kmph in just 2.9 seconds, comparable to F1 cars from the '90s.
Surprisingly agile for its weight, it handles well with responsive steering and aerodynamic aids. City driving is smooth, offering one-pedal driving in traffic. However, judging the car's edges can be tricky, and rear visibility is average, but the 360-degree camera helps.
Despite massive 23-inch wheels, the ride remains comfortable thanks to the air suspension. But caution is needed on rough roads due to the low-profile tires.
Being an EV, it offers various regeneration modes and driving settings, including a track-focused mode with launch control, altering steering and throttle response.
Should you buy it? Definitely! It might seem unusual for Lotus to venture into SUV territory, but the Eletre meets market demands. Its success could also mean continued production of Lotus' signature lightweight sports cars.
It's powerful, luxurious, spacious, and looks distinct. If you want to stand out, this SUV is worth considering among its European super SUV rivals.
Regarding support infrastructure, it's still in its early stages with few showrooms and service centers. However, if you can afford its hefty price tag, this might not be a major issue. Also, being an EV means limited access to charging infrastructure.
In conclusion, the Lotus Eletre is an intriguing SUV offering power, luxury, and uniqueness, albeit with some considerations regarding infrastructure.