Well, not exactly "here" yet, but Lotus still claims the standard model will be here in June '04, with the Lightweight model (no A/C or stereo) and Sport model ( tweaked suspension bits, forged wheels and sticky Yokos unique to that version) to follow in September. Given that Lotus is still Lotus, however, I wouldn't hold my breath on those dates, but I'm hoping for the best.
I had a chance to get a good look at this "Series 2.5" Elise that we're getting in the US at a Lotus club meet last summer, and its an impressive piece. Almost 190HP (with room for much more) and less than 2,000 lbs is amazing in this federally certified day and age. The bonded aluminum construction is beautiful as well, regardless of one's opinion of the exterior styling, which has grown on me.
Lotus continues to claim that that the price of the base will be less than $40K. Sounds far more interesting to me than a $60K (!) "550 Spyder Commemorative Edition" Boxster.
Tim