Lotus Elite revealed

Lotus will launch this stunning, super-fast Elite in the spring of 2014 to rival the Aston Martin DB9.

Expected to cost from around 115,000, the 2+2 supercar will use a 5.0-litre V8 which, when matched up to an optional hybrid system, will develop more than 600bhp.

Lotus is targeting a 0-62mph time of 3.5 to 3.7 seconds, a top speed of 196mph and CO2 emissions as low as 215g/km for the hybrid, nearly half the output of the 389g/km DB9.

As well as a straight coupe, Lotus says the 2+2 will have a 'slick retractable hard top', although it's not clear whether this means a full convertible or a Porsche 911 Targa-style arrangement.

Lotus boss Dany Bahar said: 'Make no mistake, there's a definite market requirement for the Elite it's the ultimate sports car feel with comfort and space. There will always be those who believe that Lotus should stick to small sports cars, but we didn't take the decision to design something like the Elite lightly.'