Caterham coming back to Aus

Caterham Cars Australia’s Chris van Wyk explained that, due to a combination of the typically long production lead times and the introduction of the new WLTP emissions regulations in Europe, it has taken some time to obtain Australian Compliance Approval. With this approval now achieved, Caterhams will be available for customers to order from next year.

The 2020 lineup remains at three models, starting with the Seven 275 and including the Seven 485 S, with the Seven CSR returning as the premium model. With the discontinuation of the previously available Seven 355 for the European market, that model will no longer be available here, either.

The Seven 275 is powered by a 1.6-litre Ford four-cylinder engine and five-speed manual transmission, producing 100kW and 0-100km/h in 5.5 seconds. A double wishbone front suspension and DeDion rear, rack and pinion steering, 14-inch alloy wheels, push-button starting, cloth seats, rubber floor mats and full wet weather equipment are standard. Choose the 275 S Pack and the wheels are upgraded to 15-inch, the interior is fully carpeted, a 12V socket is added and leather seats are fitted, amongst other upgrades.

The Seven 485 S runs the larger 2.0-litre Caterham-Ford Duratec four, matched to a six-speed gearbox, that produces 177kW, hits 100km/h from standstill in 3.9 seconds and a top speed of 240km/h.

Standard equipment includes 15-inch wheels, disc brakes with 4-piston front calipers, carbon fibre front guards and dash, black leather seats with 4-point harnesses, a Motolita steering wheel and full wet weather equipment.

The returning Seven CSR now features the same 177kW engine as the 485 S, rather than the 127kW from the previous CSR. Like the 485 S, the CSR features a six- speed gearbox, dry sump lubrication, a limited slip diff, rear anti-roll bar, heater, 12V socket, electrically-heated windscreen and full wet weather equipment.

Where the CSR differs over the 485 S is with its inboard front suspension, aero-shaped front guards and wishbones, a front anti-roll bar, fully-independent wishbone rear suspension and its own 15-inch wheel design (7-inch wide front, 9-inch wide rear).

Also new for 2020 is a range of Signature Options allowing further personalisation beyond the existing option packs. Signature Options include alternative leather trim, dash and interior panels.

Caterham’s 2020 model range pricing* is as follows:

Caterham Seven 275 - $73,700

Caterham Seven 485S - $114,000

Caterham Seven CSR - $115,000

*pricing is ex-dealership in Melbourne, excludes options, ORCs and interstate delivery.

For further details, go tohttp://www.caterhamcars.com.au/