The new Lotus Elise model is a huge step forward for the manufacturer, combining sports car performance with outstanding fuel economy and carbon dioxide emissions, according to one reviewer.

Writing for Auto Express, Jack Rix highlighted that the Elise offers motorists the same high levels of driving pleasure as it always has but with the added benefit that pollution has been kept to a minimum.

Sports car hire enthusiasts may be interested to know how the vehicle sets about achieving its goal of being the least polluting high-performance car in production.

Mr Rix explained that the use of a smaller 1.6-litre engine, lightweight construction and styling changes to reduce drag all contribute to CO2 emissions of 149g/km.

"With a 21 and 17 per cent improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions compared to the outgoing Elise S, this car marks a huge leap forward for Lotus," he noted.

"But with its light weight, low emissions and sensational handling, the new Elise is more relevant than ever."

The two-seat rear-wheel drive sports car is capable of 127mph, while 62mph can be achieved from still in just 6.5 seconds.

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Posted by Peter Grant