Lotus ELISE
165 registered in New Zealand · 1997–2024 · 98% from United Kingdom
The Lotus ELISE is a recognisable name on New Zealand roads, with 165 registered across model years 1997 to 2024. It averages 8 L/100km in fuel consumption and produces an average of 159 kW. Most are petrol-powered sports cars with a 1.8L engine.
Below you'll find a complete breakdown of fuel types, body styles, drivetrain options, regional distribution, and estimated running costs. Select a specific model year to see detailed specs, buyer insights, and variant-level data for that generation of the ELISE.
Fuel Types
Lotus ELISE fuel type breakdown: PETROL 99%, PETROL HYBRID 1%.
Fleet Age Profile
How many Lotus ELISE vehicles from each manufacture year are still registered in NZ. Taller bars mean more of that year on the road — better parts availability and more mechanics who know it.
Lotus ELISE fleet age profile: 2000: 13, 2003: 10, 2004: 13, 2005: 12, 2022: 11.
Drivetrain
Transmission
Lotus ELISE transmissions: 6-GEAR MANUAL 13%.
Engine Size
Lotus ELISE engine sizes: 1.8L 42%, 1.8L 28%, 1.8L 14%, 1.6L 5%, 1.8L 3%.
Imported From
Lotus ELISE imported from: United Kingdom 98%, Germany 1%, Malaysia 1%.
When They Arrived in NZ
When Lotus ELISE vehicles were first registered in New Zealand — showing import waves and buying trends.
Lotus ELISE NZ arrival timeline: 2021: 5, 2022: 12, 2023: 5, 2024: 2, 2025: 1.
Estimated Running Costs
Select a model year to estimate fuel costs for that specific Lotus ELISE.
Colours
Colours shown are approximate representations of NZTA basic colour categories, not exact manufacturer paint codes.
Where They Are in NZ
Lotus ELISE regional distribution: AUCKLAND: 67, CHRISTCHURCH: 22, WELLINGTON: 7, WAIMAKARIRI: 6, QUEENSTOWN-LAKES: 5.
Body Types
Similar Cars
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many Lotus ELISE are there in New Zealand?
There are 165 Lotus ELISE vehicles registered in New Zealand as of March 2026, making up 0% of the total passenger fleet. Model years range from 1997 to 2024.
How much does it cost to run a Lotus ELISE?
Based on NZTA fuel economy data, the Lotus ELISE averages 8 L/100km. At current fuel prices ($3.41/L), that works out to roughly $63 per week or $3,274 per year in fuel, assuming 12,000 km of annual driving. Actual costs vary by model year, driving conditions, and fuel type.
What body type is the Lotus ELISE?
The Lotus ELISE is primarily classified as a sports car in the NZTA fleet register. It is also available in other body configurations: convertible, saloon. The most common fuel type is petrol.
Are Lotus ELISE cars imported or NZ-new?
98% of Lotus ELISE vehicles in New Zealand originated from United Kingdom. The majority arrived as used imports, which is typical for this model. Check the import status and origin country for the specific year you're considering on the individual year pages.