THE original Lotus Europa was good looking but slow and tended to leave owners stranded at the side of the road all too often.
But now the company has revived the name after more than 30 years and it sounds like a real cracker - a proper Lotus for people who would rather have a little more comfort and equipment.
The 2.0-litre turbo engine comes from the Lotus-built Vauxhall VX220 Turbo and the SE is the more powerful of two models with an excellent 222bhp compared with 200bhp in the standard car.
Both are said to reach 145mph, but the SE's extra power gives a 0-62mph time of 5.4 seconds.
The SE also has more powerful brakes, different wheels and tyres, larger front discs, sports suspension and a luxury pack.
As you would expect it's mid-engined, with all that power straining away right behind your left ear, so although it has a stereo, the noise level probably means there's not much point.
Interior
Lotus is aiming for people who think the Elise too basic so it comes with air conditioning, carpets and electric windows.
But don't expect the Europa to be comfortable by any ordinary standards. Unless you are slim and agile you'll struggle to get in and out and you sit on thinly disguised racing seats with very little adjustment.
FAST FACTS
Lotus Europa SE
Price: £32,293
Mechanical: 222bhp, 1,998cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 146mph
0-62mph: 5.4 secs
Combined mpg: 28.8
Insurance group: 20
CO2 emissions: 229g/km
BiK rating: 31%
Warranty: 2yrs/ unlimited mileage
Marks: 10/10
Main rival: Porsche Cayman/Boxster