Aiming to capitalize on the positive brand cache of Lotus Racing, Lotus’s parent Proton has unveiled a Lotus Racing themed special edition of its relatively pedestrian Satria Neo R3 sports hatchback. R3 denotes the car’s status as a product of Proton’s R3 (Race Rally Research) motorsport division.
The Lotus Racing edition features a specially-tuned Öhlins coilover suspension along with revised gear ratios for the 5-speed manual transmission. Engine modifications increase power of the 1.6L Lotus-designed four-cylinder by 25 hp to 145 hp. 4-pot AP Racing calipers grip the fronts. A carbon fiber hood contributes to a total weight savings of 136 lbs below a standard Satria Neo. At 2535 lbs, the car should be fairly nimble. Just 25 units will be built.

To an extent, the Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing edition is like a modern day Talbot Lotus Sunbeam. A key difference however is the fact that most of the Satria Neo’s enhancements are the work of Proton R3, whereas the Sunbeam was improved by the Lotus team in Norfolk.

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