While it is not a genuine third generation, even though Lotus called it Series 3, the 2010 Lotus Elise shows some important improvements over the Series 2 model.
There are new headlights, new engines, and new gearboxes.

Since the Series 1 chassis was one of the best in its class, with its hydroformed aluminum structure and glued together, it was hard to change something to it. But, with a little help from the GM, Lotus was able to do some modifications to comply with the new safety regulations. That was, basically, the most important update for the Series 2.

Then, in 2010, Series 3 came with the smaller displacement engine of 1.6-liter from Toyota. It was a rev-happy unit that boosts out 136 hp, which was decent for the very light sports car. And then, they installed a 1.8-liter engine naturally aspirated or supercharged.

Inside, there are the same two tight seats that hold their occupants fixed in place, a manual gearbox and, as an option, an AC unit. Other than that, everything is kept to basic. It shows its intention to be a true driver’s car and not a vehicle that someone would drive on a daily commute. The 1.6-liter unit combined with its lightweight makes it a very fuel-efficient car. But its hard suspension would punish the driver in a daily driving situation. Unless your workplace is on a track and you live in the pit-lane.