A very brand-new model may be on the way, but Lotus hasn't given up on keeping the current Elise roadster at the top of its game.

The 'new' Elise S replaces the current Elise SC, bringing a new Toyota-sourced 1.8 litre engine and a new supercharger, with no change to the SC's $79,990 (plus on-roads) price.

Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the supercharged setup delivers the same 163kW as before, but with 250Nm of torque, there's an extra 40 of Newton's finest on tap.

Among the mechanical enhancements are a new air-to-water intercooler and an oil cooler, along with revised gearing that Lotus says will get you to 100km/h without shifting to third gear, and a taller sixth gear for more economical cruising.

Fuel consumption sees a 10 percent improvement to 7.5 l/100km. The official 0-100km/h time remains unchanged at 4.6 seconds, with 0-160km/h listed at 10.8 seconds and top speed of 233km/h.

As with the regular third-gen Elise, the S features Lotus' updated Dynamic Performance Management System (DPM), promising less computer intervention in Sport mode and a smoother experience when it does.

Pricing

• 2012 Lotus Elise - $67,990
• 2012 Lotus Elise S - $79,990

Note: all prices are Manufacturer’s List Price and do not include dealer delivery or on-road costs.

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