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Lotus Europa S: a small mid-engine coupe with a turbo engine
Lotus Europa S (2006–2010) — a British mid-engine coupe with a turbo engine and lightweight construction. In this article, we review its versions, engine, and what you need to know when buying a used car.
Europa S in brief
The Europa S is a two-seater coupe with an engine behind the passengers, designed as a more comfortable alternative to the Lotus Elise. It retains a lightweight construction and precise handling, but features an enclosed body with a roof.
The car stands out with its unusual body shape, limited rear visibility, and small boot. It's not particularly practical, but a very distinctive car.
Versions
The first version is the Europa S, followed by the more powerful Europa SE. Differences mainly lie in engine power, trim, and equipment.
Equipment can vary between cars, so check the specific example and ensure it has what you really need.
Engine and transmission
The Europa S has a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine with around 200 hp, the Europa SE around 225 hp. The engine is from General Motors of that era.
The transmission is manual, with rear-wheel drive. Thanks to its low weight, the car is quite dynamic.
What to check when buying a used Europa S
Check for a full service history. The turbo engine is sensitive to the condition of the oil and cooling system, so it's important that all services are carried out on time.
Inspect the body plastics and paintwork, suspension operation, and running gear. Look for signs that the car hasn't been in an accident.
Getting in and out is trickier than a standard coupe, so before you buy, test it out and see if it's acceptable to you.
Trims
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most common versions found in Europe.
Europa S
BaseThe base version with around 200 HP.
- Turbo engine, around 200 HP
- Manual transmission
- Simpler interior trim
Europa SE
LaterMore powerful and better-equipped version.
- Around 225 HP
- Often — more interior trim
- Often — additional equipment
Comparison of versions
| Europa S | Europa SE | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | For dynamic daily driving | For more powerful driving |
| Engine | 2.0-litre turbo, around 200hp | 2.0-litre turbo, around 225hp |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | Mid-range | High-end |
For most buyers, the base Europa S SE will suffice, but opt for more power and better kit.
Pros
- Lightweight and precise handling
- Distinctive body shape
- Dynamic turbo engine
- Rare model
Cons
- Tricky entry and limited visibility
- Small boot
- Limited parts selection
Frequently asked questions
How much HP does the Lotus Europa S have?
The Europa S has around 200 HP, the Europa SE around 225 HP.
Is the Europa S suitable for daily use?
It might be, but it's rather impractical: limited visibility, small boot, tricky entry.
How does the Europa S differ from the Elise?
The Europa S is a more comfortable coupé with a larger interior and a turbo engine, while the Elise is a lighter, more agile car.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
