► Three new Caterham Seven models
► Replace older models in the range
► New ‘S’ and ‘R’ packages introduced
The Caterham Seven range has had a rejig for 2015, including the addition of three new, or at least slightly different, models: the Seven 270, 360 and 420.
That means there are now five Seven models in total across the simplified range, which as before is topped by the terrifying 620R and kicks off with the skinny-tyred (and skinny-engined) Seven 160 – one of which, incidentally, we’re currently running on our long-term test fleet. The three new models slot neatly in between, starting with the new Seven 270.
Caterham Seven 270: the friendly one
The 270 replaces the old Roadsport 125 model. As before, it takes its power from Ford’s 1.6-litre Sigma engine but this time it’s the newer version with cleverer variable valve timing and an extra 10bhp, taking the total power output to 135bhp.
How fast? 0-62mph in 5.0 seconds, top speed 122mph
How much? £22,995
Caterham Seven 360: the middle one
Not a fast-rotating stunt-special Seven but the new mid-point in the range. It uses the same 180bhp 2.0-litre Ford Duratec engine as Caterham’s R300 racing car. Caterham describes it as ‘the perfect balance between road and race track.’ It replaces both the Roadsport 175 and Supersport R models.
How fast? 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds, top speed 130mph
How much? £26,995
Caterham Seven 420: the very fast one
Same 2.0-litre Ford Duratec engine, different power output: 210bhp this time, courtesy of various mods including a dry sump. It replaces the outgoing Superlight R400 model.
How fast? 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds, top speed 136mph
How much? £29,995
Anything else new in Caterham Seven world?
There’s a bit of extra customisation in the form of two equipment packages, available across all models in the range: the S pack and the R pack.
The S package is essentially a touring pack, with carpets, a heater, hood with side screens, a windscreen(!), leather seats, 14-inch alloys and a more forgiving suspension setup.
By contrast, the R pack is for trackday fiends, adding a limited-slip diff, 15-inch alloys and firmer suspension to the mix along with composite seats and four-point harnesses.
As Caterham puts it, ‘we now feel we have a Seven for everyone.’ The new range and option packages are on sale now.