CATERHAM'S new entry level sports car the Seven 160 will cost from £14,995 in kit form or an extra £3,000 fully built when it arrives next spring.

The British brand has opened its order book for the model, which is powered by a super-compact, turbocharged Suzuki engine.

With its live-axle rear suspension, compact engine and low weight, the car is aimed at recreating the pioneering spirit of early Sevens.

The Seven 160 - European customers will get an altered version called 165 - produces 80bhp from its 660cc, three-cylinder, turbocharged engine, enabling it to accelerate to 60mph in 6.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 100mph.

Its driving experience is dictated by handling finesse rather than outright performance for a newcomer with a new take on the budget sports car scene.

Caterham Cars chief Graham Macdonald said: "As the Caterham Group as a whole grows and expands into new sectors and industries, our commitment to keep evolving the Seven is very much alive.

"The 160 offers something truly different to the entry-level market. It's more economical, more accessible and every bit as fun on the road as other Sevens but has its own unique personality."

The new rear axle, a throwback to early Sevens in terms of simplicity, complements the Suzuki engine and lower overall body weight, while delivering Caterham's intuitive handling experience and balanced  chassis.

To achieve its performance, Caterham's engineers fine-tuned the engine from its standard output of 64bhp to 80bhp, while boosting fuel economy and reducing emissions.

Says Macdonald: "The engineering challenges we faced when developing the new vehicle were significant. The engine, suspension and the overall dynamics all needed to work in harmony and the various arms of the Group have been successful in pooling facilities and expertise to achieve that."

Production of the Caterham Seven 160 and 165 is expected to begin in January, with first deliveries during the spring.