The Elise, one of the finest-handling cars on offer anywhere (at any price), has drawn new buyers into Lotus' fold with a surprisingly accessible $43,000 M.S.R.P.

In the spring, the Elise will get a dealer-mate in the Exige, which stickers at $50,990. It is fair to say that Lotus' rebirth in America has put other boutique automakers on notice.