LOTUS EXIGE (2006)
Running costs, common problems, and reliability data based on 193 real MOT tests in 2024.
MOT Pass Rate
88%
Total Tests (2024)
193
Avg Mileage
44,832 mi
Est. Annual Cost
£1,867
Is the 2006 LOTUS EXIGE reliable?
Good reliability. Occasional issues but generally solid. That's 6 points above the national average of 82%.
At 18 years old, 88% of LOTUS EXIGEs from 2006 passed their MOT first time in 2024. That's based on 193 tests across the UK. The average mileage at this age is 44,832 miles.
How does the 2006 LOTUS EXIGE compare?
Mileage Analysis
The average 2006 LOTUS EXIGE has 44,832 miles on the clock, which is significantly below the expected 133,200 miles for a 18-year-old car. Low-mileage examples may have spent time sitting unused, so check for issues like corroded brakes or perished rubber seals.
Best year to buy a LOTUS EXIGE?
The most reliable year is the 2019 model with a 98% MOT pass rate, while the 2004 model has the lowest at 87%. The 2006 sits between the two at 88%.
How much does a 2006 LOTUS EXIGE cost to run?
Based on 7,400 miles/year (UK average), current fuel prices, and repair likelihood from MOT pass rate data. Insurance not included.
LOTUS EXIGE by Year
| Year | Pass Rate | Tests | Avg Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 92% | 98 | 6,384 mi |
| 2020 | 95% | 164 | 9,530 mi |
| 2019 | 98% | 189 | 13,275 mi |
| 2018 | 94% | 159 | 15,610 mi |
| 2017 | 95% | 176 | 17,471 mi |
| 2016 | 96% | 182 | 19,868 mi |
| 2015 | 94% | 179 | 26,709 mi |
| 2014 | 93% | 184 | 23,573 mi |
| 2013 | 95% | 142 | 25,541 mi |
| 2010 | 94% | 133 | 27,160 mi |
| 2009 | 96% | 74 | 33,090 mi |
| 2008 | 89% | 168 | 42,736 mi |
| 2007 | 92% | 169 | 37,419 mi |
| 2006 | 88% | 193 | 44,832 mi |
| 2005 | 92% | 156 | 50,716 mi |
| 2004 | 87% | 94 | 44,899 mi |
| 2001 | 96% | 49 | 38,260 mi |
| 2000 | 95% | 111 | 34,885 mi |
Checking a specific LOTUS EXIGE?
Enter the reg plate to see its individual MOT history, mileage verification, and predicted costs.
About the 2006 LOTUS EXIGE
The 2006 LOTUS EXIGE is a family car with a 1796cc petrol engine. 193 of these vehicles were MOT tested in 2024, making it a rare model on UK roads. It ranks in the top 10% of all 2006 cars for reliability.
With an average of 44,832 miles at 18 years old, LOTUS EXIGE owners tend to use this car less than the typical driver. Very low mileage could mean the car has been garaged or used only for short trips, which can cause its own issues like battery drain and moisture buildup.
2006 LOTUS EXIGE Fuel Costs
The 1796cc petrol engine offers a reasonable balance between performance and economy. Expect around 36 mpg in mixed driving, which works out to roughly £1,327 per year at current petrol prices of 142p per litre (based on 7,400 miles per year).
What does it cost to own a 2006 LOTUS EXIGE?
Total estimated annual running cost is £1,867 (£156/month), broken down as £1327 fuel, £135 road tax, £55 MOT, and £350 predicted repairs. Repair costs are moderate, reflecting the 88% pass rate. Keeping on top of servicing will help avoid surprises.
LOTUS EXIGE Reliability Trend
Newer LOTUS EXIGEs show better MOT pass rates than older ones, with an average improvement of 3 percentage points.
Buying a Used 2006 LOTUS EXIGE
At 18 years old, the LOTUS EXIGE is firmly in budget territory. Purchase prices are low, but check for rust, worn suspension bushes, and electrical gremlins. A full service history is especially valuable at this age. If you're flexible on year, the 2019 model has the highest pass rate at 98%.
Alternatives to the 2006 LOTUS EXIGE
The LOTUS EXIGE is actually the most reliable option among similar petrol family cars from this era. Here are comparable petrol cars with similar engines:
- FORD FIESTA (2008) 72% pass rate (-16%) from 109,443 tests
- FORD FOCUS (2008) 73% pass rate (-15%) from 90,659 tests
- BMW 3 SERIES (2007) 80% pass rate (-8%) from 55,686 tests
- MINI MINI (2008) 74% pass rate (-14%) from 54,730 tests