From 1968 to 1974, I had a SAAB Sonett II that weighed 1260 lbs, front wheel drive, much shorter wheelbase (85"), but larger engine, No power steering or power brakes. The feel was perfect. Only at very low speed, like under 1mph was the steering a tiny heavy (considering it had a 2.25 lock-to-lock rack and a small steering wheel), but direct. Power steering would have, actually, ruined the driver-road connection/feel in such a light car. The Elio is a bit lighter in the front due to a smaller engine. It should have no need for power steering.
Remember, combat pilots did not have side mirrors. I think that a rear window with a small mirror is going to happen to assuage the fear of some drivers of driving blind although the side mirrors will easily cover the rear view requirement.