The idea of adding e-throttle to a Lotus strikes fear into the purists here at SCC, but after driving the car substantially, it's clear the new servo doesn't interfere with the driving experience. Rather than having a mind of its own, the electronic throttle is simply a different way of relaying driver input to the throttle body.
Along with the e-throttle comes an optional traction control system (which is easily switched off) that limits slip by cutting fuel to individual cylinders using the engine management software. The system is so unobtrusive that you have to tune your ears in to hear the popping sound made by an engine firing without fuel to know the system has been activated.
In response to years of nagging autocrossers, a 2:1 bias limited-slip differential will be optional on 2006 cars. Lotus actually recommends not ticking that box unless you're an avid autocrosser though; the LSD puts a dent in the great steering feel that Lotus is so famous for. Traction control is mandatory with the purchase of the LSD.
The change in steering feel is hard to notice when driving the cars on the road, but there is a slight dulling down of the feedback at higher speeds. Think of it as the difference between "way more precise than other cars" to "much more precise than other cars." The LSD-equipped car was slightly easier to rotate on the autocross course Lotus had set up, which was small enough to be a tight fit for a go-kart.
It may be redundant, but there will be a hardcore version of the Exige offered. Called the "track pack" (also offered on the Elise), the option package includes a 5-way-adjustable front anti-roll bar and an adjustable coilover suspension with external reservoirs. A rear track link that reinforces the suspension pick-up points, and a roll-hoop that is safety harness ready are also in the bundle. Add $2495 if you want this package on your Exige. Remember, there's no substitute for massive excess.
Subtle changes are visible to the keen eye inside the car and on the exterior as well. The rear grills are slightly revised, and the 2006 cars will have LED-taillights. The instrument panel receives minor changes, and incorporates a telltale light for the traction control system.
The 2006 Exige will have an msrp of $50,990. While this seems like a big number to swallow, it must be taken into consideration that these are essentially road-legal go-karts (note that we see numb asses and cramped cockpits as an asset).
If we were on the buying side of the equation, we'd opt for the $42,990 Elise. The "Sport" and "Track" packages are still options and the base car is a great place to start. Besides, the aftermarket support for these cars grows daily. The Exige is marginally better (despite looking quite a bit better), but may not be worth the additional $8000. For $42k, there isn't a more focused driving experience out there.
In a world where gizmo-infected machines that decide if what you're doing is acceptable tout around as sports cars, it's refreshing to see that there's still a car that's willing to let you in on the experience. One that has nothing but bare essentials, tips the scales at around a ton, and leaves you shaking for more every time you park it.