RE: SC, I heard nothing about it, aside from the fact that they are very happy with the current engine configuration.
IMHO - no. Fit and finish were
top notch. HQ Leather, supple feel to everything in the cabin. Even the cupholders were well placed.
There were a few Porsche 911's and Ferrari's in the showroom to compare. The Ferrari by comparison was much flashier, confusing, and frankly on the gaudy side. The Porsche were not as gaudy, but were definitely confusing with switches and dials all over the place. Leathers were similar in all 3, although the Lotus felt softer to the touch, and interior materials of all 3 were again similar in that they were chosen in good taste. The Lotus was simple, direct, elegant. I loved it immediately because I understood what every control was for right away. Good luck doing that in the Ferrari or Porsche.
Similarly, to buy a
Caymen equally equipped to the Evora, one would spend more money on arguably a less capable, less drivable car. Forget about a similarly equipped 911 in that price range, won't happen unless it's used. And the Ferrari?
The Alpine side of things in the Evora was strikingly positive as well. The Nav system is excellent. If you have driven an Acura or Honda with Nav, you have experienced the Alpine Sat/Nav. The backup camera is excellent. The Blue Tooth compatibility is unrivaled. The backup sensors are quality. The speakers are high quality. Alpine did a great job of taking the "niceties" out of Lotus' hands and offering a simple solution to many small electronic questions which added a nominal amount of weight (mostly in wiring) and a large degree of convenience.
I believe they did the same with the appliance-like-reliable Toyota powerplant and transmission. They took a great engine, tuned it for a sports car, and are giving it to us in a form factor of a car that you can drive every day. Conveniently. Without reservations. This comes in GREAT contrast to the Porsche and Ferrari, which were both beautiful, and both completely impractical for the cost conscious.
The Evora is a real winner in every way possible. Did I mention that I want a black one with a red interior like my Elise?
PS - I spoke at great length with the Lotus gentlemen, so feel free to ask questions.