Lotus Exige S Roadster will launch this Summer (w/VIDEO)

It’s good to see Lotus back with a humorous press release – watch out for the closing credits at the end of this video – even if the subject in focus is a model which you probably thought they already made.

Of course, the Exige S Roadster was first revealed in March 2012 ahead of the Geneva Motor Show, back in the days when Dany Bahar ruled at Hethel.

But despite being first, it was the coupé which entered production (albeit slowly) and from this summer the Roadster will join it.

Lotus F1 Team driver Kimi Räikkönen poses in the Exige S Roadster at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

As with the fixed-roof variant, the Exige S is powered by a mid-mounted 3.5 litre DOHC V6 VVT-i engine producing 345bhp at 7000rpm and 295lb-ft at 4500rpm.

It weighs 10kg less than the coupé, and is capable of 0-60 mph 3.8 seconds (62mph in 4.0 seconds), 0 – 100 mph in 8.5 seconds and a top speed of 145mph (reduced from 170mph in the coupé).

In true Lotus fashion, it blends a supple ride with tenacious handling, aided by double wishbone suspension front and rear with Bilstein high performance dampers.

A six-speed manual gearbox is fitted, while four optional configuration packs are offered – Premium, Premium Pack Sport, Race and Convenience.