2005 KMA K310
A whole bunch of variants based on the same mid-engined all-carbon fiber platform, with power outputs ranging from a tepid 60 bhp to a scorching 189 bhp, all from a 1.0L naturally aspirated inline-three.
Model range, left to right:
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XLE: 60bhp engine, open diff, 14in forged wheels, hard long-life tires, and 5spd manual gearbox. Base model with maximum focus on economy - over 80mpg (US) if driven gently.
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XLP: 100bhp engine, viscous LSD and 15in wheels. A decent blend of performance and economy (75mpg US), but still a flyweight among sports cars at 575kg.
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XLS: 110bhp engine, sports compound tires, 6spd manual gearbox and helical LSD. More performance-oriented, but still capable of 66.6mpg (US). Also submitted for CSR163.
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XLC: Identical to XLS, but with CD player and all electronic driving aids (ABS, SC/TC) omitted for less weight (515kg) and a more stripped-back experience.
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XLT: Road-going version of the XLR (below), with a 145bhp engine and provision for semi-slick tires. Standard equipment is identical to that of the XLC - in other words, not much at all.
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XLR: Track-only version built for maximum performance on a circuit, with a 189bhp engine and sub-500kg kerb weight (if passenger seat is removed). Suspension and brakes are retuned for racing tires.
Production was limited to 1000 units between 2005 and 2010, but the range proved that a small mid-engined sports car with a low-displacement engine, very low weight, and a focus on economy (even if it wasn’t a hybrid) could still be fun to drive.