Previously, at the short-track rally organized by Lotus Cars, the precise handling and sufficient energy of the Lotus L3 left a very good impression on me. So how would the Lotus L5, fully tuned by British Lotus Cars without the Proton platform, perform? The British-style body design, enjoyable driving experience, spacious interior, strong power, and relatively reliable price are all enough to make me look forward to the Lotus L5. In the torment of longing, I obtained an opportunity to test drive the Lotus L5. Last weekend, with the joy of having my wishes fulfilled, I had a deep and joyful experience with the L5.
When I received the keys and arrived at the garage, the Lotus L5 was smiling and waiting for my arrival. After careful observation, I found that the front face is a classic Lotus style, looking similar to the L3, but unlike the purely sporty elements of the L3, the L5's style is more fashionable and elegant. The head, tail, and sides have a more obvious downward trend, giving a strong sense of British style. There is more chrome decoration on the front face, adding a sense of hierarchy. The grille size is relatively large, with a chrome woven mesh inside, looking quite delicate. The willow-leaf shaped headlights are more fashionable, and the low beam light heads are equipped with lenses, enhancing the quality. Above the fog lights, there are LED daytime running lights, further ensuring driving safety.
Sitting in the cockpit, the seat's enveloping performance is excellent, especially the lumbar support is done well, making it feel truly comfortable! The finely crafted dashboard uses soft materials, adding points to the texture of the L5. The leather-wrapped three-spoke steering wheel with excellent handfeel, combined with the orange self-luminous instruments in front, immediately makes one feel delighted. This is completely different from the hard feeling of the L3, giving a sense of innate nature. Even when compared to the engineering level of mid-to-high-end cars from joint ventures, it can still hold its own.
Turning the key, the L5 carried me effortlessly onto the road. Although I haven't driven a manual transmission for a long time, the clutch point of the L5 is very clear. By simply lifting the clutch without pressing the accelerator, the car starts easily, which immediately relaxes my slightly tense mood. Opening the sunroof and playing a relaxing song, I began my pleasant test drive journey with the L5. On the crowded airport "slow-speed road," the L5 did not embarrass me with frequent braking and starting. To experience the thrill of acceleration, at one red light start line, I deeply pressed the accelerator. The engine's deep roar made my heart race. Before the surrounding vehicles could react, I had already "shot" out first. Maintaining a shift speed above 3500 rpm even gives some "push-back" sensation, accelerating to 80 km/h feels very easy, making it hard to believe this is only a 1.6L displacement car.
The "CPS Variable Valve Lift System + VIM Variable Intake Manifold Length System" two core technologies from the Lotus sports car technology center allow this engine to have a maximum power output of 90.5 kW, with a maximum speed reaching 7000 r/min; under high speed, the engine's power output is directly linear, being quite sensitive to pressure on the accelerator pedal. Especially when matched with a manual transmission, it can maximize the potential of the engine, completely eliminating my previous concern about insufficient power due to "a small horse pulling a big cart."
Not only is the power sufficient and the ride comfortable, but the seating comfort of the Lotus L5 also ranks among the best. When switching drivers, I reluctantly left the driver's seat and moved to the back row. The 2670 mm wheelbase is indeed very practical. Even with my 180 cm height, I can still obtain a decent amount of legroom, making long-term riding relatively comfortable.