It's official: the new Esprit->ke2303 will make its world debut in September at the Paris Auto Show. Next to it Lotus will also unveil two new front-engined GT cars and a new roadster, all coming in concept versions. The production versions are expected to be unveiled in July 2012. This decision has been made as a result of Lotus->ke49' new strategy to dramatically increase profitability through its new range of more upmarket models, meaning Lotus is serious about competing with models from Porsche->ke1 and Ferrari->ke252.

A while ago, a Lotus insider said the next Esprit would be "the ultimate expression of the brand." We have to remind you that there were rumors stating that the new Esprit would get the same 4.8 Liter V10 from the Lexus LF-A->ke2181 supercar producing 550 HP. There were also rumors saying the entry level will be powered by a 3.5 Liter V6 from the Evora->ke3240 that produces 300 HP. In any case, the next Esprit will sprint from 0 to 60 MPH in about 4 seconds and will be capable of a top speed of around 200 MPH.

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