Updates for a Legend
Caterham proves that even a 50-year-old automotive icon can learn new tricks. The British manufacturer has announced a series of visual and interior updates for the iconic Seven, while keeping the previous prices across the entire lineup.
The updates for the 2026 model year focus on keeping the Seven relevant while improving its standard equipment. Externally, the “Clear Lens Pack” makes the round headlights more contemporary, and the headlight housings and roll bar receive body-color paint instead of black.
New Color Palette
Furthermore, Caterham has expanded the color palette with eight new paint shades. Options include standard Poppy Red and Blacksmith, premium Earl Grade, as well as exclusive Sunset Riot, Heritage Sage, Chainmail Silver, Viola Parsifae, and Ice Forest Green. The latter color was first shown on the fully electric Project V.
Interior Improvements
The interior has been enhanced with a new pair of leather seats for the S-pack specification (optional for R-pack) featuring “Seven” embroidery on the backrest. Additionally, both S- and R-pack models now come standard with a black leather tunnel top.
Finally, there are several no-cost options, including the sportier 620 aero package, which can be fitted to all Seven variants, along with amber indicator lenses, black or chrome headlight housings, and rear roll bars.
The Powertrain Lineup Remains Unchanged
The powertrain lineup consists of a turbocharged 660cc Suzuki engine and a 2.0-liter Ford Duratec engine in naturally aspirated and supercharged configurations. Power ranges from 84 hp in the base Seven 170 to 310 hp in the flagship Seven 620.
It is worth noting that the company was recently forced to bid farewell to its most powerful naturally aspirated models in Europe and Japan with the release of the final versions of the Seven 485 and 485 CSR.
Electric Future
But as one door closes, another opens. Last month, Caterham unveiled a prototype of the fully electric Project V, first shown in concept form back in 2023. The zero-emission sports car is slowly moving towards series production and will also become available in the US market.
These updates to the Seven can be seen as a bridge between the brand’s glorious past and its electric future. By preserving the core character and accessibility of the classic model, Caterham is simultaneously preparing the ground for a more radical change. The success of Project V will be critical for attracting a new generation of enthusiasts, while providing the financial stability needed to continue producing such unique cars as the Seven in the long term.