Car Statistics: Lotus - Europa S Series 06 (3 stars)

Styling (2 stars)

Lotus's weakest-looking effort for years. Slats and scoops seem to be trying too hard and there's something very mid 'nineties about the whole effort.

Handling (4 stars)

For all its faults the Europa drives brilliantly - Lotus hasn't forgotten how to make a great driver's car. The steering is brilliant and the well-balanced chassis responds well to hard use.

Comfort (2 stars)

By the standards of the segment it's set itself up to compete in, the Europa is dreadful: cramped, noisy and without the sort of luxuries that key rivals offer as standard.

Quality (2 stars)

The car we tested suffered from poor paint finish and creaking trim. Not the sort of thing you expect for something so expensive.

Performance (4 stars)

The 2.0 litre turbocharged Vauxhall engine delivers strong performance, at the cost of a coarse soundtrack.

Roominess (1 star)

In a word: laughable. Lotus's claims the Europa offers everyday practicality are well wide of the mark. Cramped, hard to get in and out of and with a tiny boot.

Costs (3 stars)

Lightweight composite construction gives the Europa respectable fuel economy, but servicing and insurance costs will be very high. Limited supply should keep depreciation in check, though.

Value (2 stars)

For nearly £34,000 the Europa looks very expensive compared to rivals, especially considering its four-cylinder engine and lack of standard equipment.