Lotus Emira Review 2026
Lotus Emira Verdict
Hugely enjoyable to drive with charasmatic engines. Genuine Porsche 718 Cayman rival and feels more special. Well-finished, high quality interior. Far more refined than the Lotus Evora.
No manual gearbox option from 2027. Prices have increased considerably since launch.
Find out more about the Lotus Emira
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Driven, tested and rated by: Lotus Emira at a glance:
- Body type: Coupe
- Price range: £79,500 - £99,500
- 0-62mph: 4.0s - 4.4s
- Number of seats: 2
- Boot capacity: 151 litres
- Insurance group: 50
Lotus Emira: Everything you need to know
Launched in 2021, the Lotus Emira effectively replaced both the Lotus Elise and the Evora as its traditional two-seater sports car. But in terms of refinement and tech, it is a huge leap forward.
The good news is that it retains the ingredients – a petrol engine, a manual gearbox and an old school feel behind the wheel that produces a visceral reaction – that, for traditionalists, make a Lotus a Lotus.
The mid-engined Emira is powered by either a 3.5-litre V6 engine or a 2.0-litre four-cylinder AMG unit that powers the Turbo models, introduced in 2023. The latter is only available with an eight-speed automatic DCT gearbox so if you want a manual – and that's certainly what we'd choose – then the V6 is your only option.
The Emira is the sole 'true' Lotus in the tradition of a two-seater, lightweight sports car. It sits in a totally different space to the Lotus Eletre and Lotus Emeya – excellent EVs as they are. It was scheduled to be replaced in 2027 by an all electric model, co-developed with Alpine, but thankfully Lotus has extended the Emira's life after deciding that there was no market for an EV sports car after all.
That does come with some changes though. Sadly, both the Toyota-sourced V6 and AMG 2.0-litre engine will be no more by 2027 as they are both replaced by a 3.0-litre V6 twin-turbocharged hybrid engine developed by Horse Powertrain – owned by Geely and Renault. Horse engines are already used in Nissan, Renault, Dacia and Mercedes models. Given that Geely also owns Lotus, this is an obvious move.
The new engine is far more powerful with 540PS and comes with an integrated electric motor. Sadly it won't come with a manual gearbox, instead an automatic transmission will be standard. Even the Emira can't withstand the march of low emissions-backed electric power it seems.
With rivals quickly disappearing – since the Emira was launched we've seen both the Porsche 718 Cayman and the Toyota GR Supra disappear from showrooms while the Alpine A110 is soon to follow, although it will be replaced, albeit electrically powered. Lotus's decision to keep the Emira going could mean it has the middle ground between the likes of the Mazda MX-5 and Porsche 911 to itself.
How we tested the Lotus Emira
We spent a week with a Lotus Emira V6 SE finished in the trademark Hethel Yellow. In our humble opinion the best colour just ahead of EOS Green. After all, if you're going to have a sports car, may as well go for something that stands out.
We tested the Emira across lots of different roads, from Bedfordshire country lanes with questionable surfaces to runs up the A1(M) and across the roundabouts and dual carriageways of Milton Keynes. As well testing it in its natural habitat of twisting lanes, we also pressed the Emira into action on the school run to test it's form in stop-start traffic and tight parallel parking. Spoiler alert: school kids love it.
Practicality is not why you buy a sports car like the Emira but we also tested out the small boot and the storage shelf behind the seats, plus of course we spent a lot of time diving into the infotainment system as well as testing the active safety systems.
In a time when everything is being electrified, the Lotus Emira is a tonic to the soulless feel of electric power. This is a car that's engaging, charismatic and simply a joy to drive. Yes you could choose a Porsche 718 Cayman or even a 911, but we guarantee you'll enjoy yourself more in an Emira. |
Is the Lotus Emira a good car?
A good car? The Lotus Emira is an exceptional car. If you still think of Lotus cars as being focused purely on handling at the expense of everything else (mainly comfort...) think again. The Emira is a genuine rival to the Porsche 718 Cayman – which is surely the ultimate praise.
In a time when everything is being electrified, the Lotus Emira is a tonic to the soulless feel of electric power. This is a car that's engaging, charismatic and simply a joy to drive. Yes you could choose a more practical Toyota GR Supra, but we guarantee you'll enjoy yourself more in an Emira.
On the road the Emira is beautifully balanced but what makes this such a great sports car – and such a big step forward from the likes of the Elise – is its everyday usability. Even with a manual gearbox, it's easy to drive in traffic while on the motorway it will settle down to a comfortable cruise.
The driving position is absolutely perfect. Even 6ft-plus drivers will find plenty of legroom while a steering column with plenty of height – and more importantly reach – adjustment means you won't feel squeezed in. The seats are supportive yet still comfortable because this is, after all, no stripped-back racer.
For those owners swapping their Evora or Elise for an Emira, the improvements in quality and refinement will be massive. Choosing a Lotus no longer means having to compromise on cabin quality, equipment or comfort.
Reviews for Lotus Emira's top 3 rivals
Lotus Emira handling and engines
Lotus Emira 2026: Handling and ride quality
Thanks to its lightweight aluminium construction and mid-engined design, the Lotus Emira feels nimble and beautifully balanced. We found it easy to get into a groove during our time testing the Emira, the clutch and gearbox are perfecty weighted and it's simply a joy to drive.
There are three different driving modes – Tour, Sport and Track – the latter giving you the most throttle response and loudest exhaust plus the least intrusion from the electronic stability control (ESC). We tried all three modes out but spent most of our time in Sport, Tour being good for the motorway and early morning starts (sorry neighbours).
Push the Emira V6 into a series of bends and you immediately realise that the lateral grip is immense, allowing you to carry speed through corners as it seemingly locks onto your chosen line. Thanks to the mid-engined layout, there's incredible rear-wheel traction when you power out of a turn, helped by the limited slip differential.
Best of all is how communicative it is. Lotus has stuck with a traditional, hydraulically assisted steering rack meaning not just that more natural feel that has disappeared from most cars, but also plenty of information about the road surface beneath the front tyres. Yet it cleverly filters out harsh, unwanted vibrations so you're not left fighting the wheel over bumps.
During our testing on a lot of wide A-roads, we did notice the Emira had the odd tendency to wander and tramline as the tyres follow the grooves in the road. That's not something you experience with a 718 Cayman.
Despite all that power and the short throw of the manual gear lever, the Emira V6 is actually easy to drive in traffic and around town. True, you do have to slow right down for every speed bump, but it copes surprisingly well with rough surfaces and potholes (not deep ones mind). It's also easy to park with front and rear sensors – no cameras here – and light steering at low speeds.
On of our favourite aspects of the Emira is that you don't have to be going fast to enjoy it. Even at moderate speeds it's engaging, while the engine and exhaust provide the drama. For us that's the mark of a good sports car.
Lotus Emira 2026: Engines
There are two engines available in the Lotus Emira – the 3.5-litre V6 and the 2.0-litre Turbo. We tested the V6 SE with the standard manual gearbox. You can get an automatic as an £1800 option and around a third of buyers go for this. But for us, it's got to be the six-speed manual every time.
The Toyota-sourced V6 engine, carried over from the Evora, actually has humble origins, being shared with the Toyota Camry hybrid among others. Of course the Lotus version is very different thanks to an Edelbrock supercharger plus a bespoke intake and exhaust system which pushes power to 405PS with 420Nm of torque peaking at 4200rpm.
The supercharger gives off a characteristic whine which may not be for everyone but we love. Along with the noise of the V6 and the howl from the exhaust, it comes together to produce a wonderful sound that will fill your soul with happiness. It's very hard to resist a prod of the throttle in order to enjoy it even more.
The engine has a highly responsive, mechanical feel and while not quite as fast away from the line compared to the Turbo, it comes into its own as the revs quickly rise and it's wonderfully muscular in the mid range.
Performance does drop away a little before you get to the 6800rpm redline so eager gear changes are needed, although given how delightful the six-speed shift is, that's no hardship.
The other choice is the Mercedes-AMG 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine which is fitted with a single twin-scroll turbocharger. There are two versions – Turbo models have 365PS while Turbo SE models boost this to V6 matching 405PS.
There's no manual gearbox only an eight-speed dual-clutch DCT. This helps make the Turbo SE faster, getting from 0-62mph in 4.0 seconds compared to 4.3 seconds for the V6, with the entry-level Emira Turbo not being that far behind at 4.4 seconds.
Lotus Emira 2026: Safety
The Emira doesn't skimp on safety kit with driver and passenger airbags, curtain airbags and also thorax airbags. It hasn't been tested by Euro NCAP (no Lotus has and it's unlikely that will change) but we have no doubt it would score well.
It has a whole load of active safety systems (get ready for a dull list) including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Warning, Lane Change Assist, Lane Departure Warning, Fatigue detection, Adaptive Brake Assist, Secondary Collision Mitigation, Corner Brake Control (CBC) and Corner Stability Control (CSC).
Deep breath... There's also Drag Torque Control (DTC), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Yaw Moment Control (YMC), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control and Integrated Traction Control. Phew.
The good news is that thanks to a 'quick panel' on the centre screen you can quickly-ish turn most of the annoying ones (we're looking at you lane change assist...) without having to dive into lots of menus.
Lotus Emira 2026: Towing
If you're buying an Emira and want to tow with it, you probably need to ask yourself some serious questions. That's what the Land Rover Defender is for...
Lotus Emira interior
Lotus Emira 2026: Practicality
Let's face it, you're not buying a two-seater sports car if you want practicality but even in this niche, there are some that are better than others.
The Lotus Emira makes a decent attempt at practicality with a 151-litre boot just behind the engine. You can get a small suitcase in there or a reasonable amount of shopping, just don't plan any trips to B&Q. Usefully there's also a space behind the seats (which tip forward) which adds an extra 208 litres of carrying space. You can actually get two standard carry-on flight cases behind here plus it's useful for coats.
Unlike a 718 Cayman, there's no frunk in the Lotus. The space under the bonnet isn't designed to be accessed regularly and houses big fans for cooling and ancillaries such as the washer fluid and brake fluid reservoirs.
In the cabin there are two cupholders but if you choose a manual, you'll find anything they are right in the way when you want to change gear. You can get a metal water bottle in the door pockets though and there's a usefully deep storage cubby under the armrest.
We also like the little rubberised slot for your phone underneath the infotainment screen, although it's a shame it doesn't have wireless charging. There are however 2 USB-A ports and a USB-C connector.
Lotus Emira 2026: Quality and finish
This is one area where Lotus has clearly focused on. Comparing the Emira with rivals such as the Alpine A110 and Porsche 718 Cayman, it's genuinely on par in terms of the finish and the materials used. That's not something that could be said of the Evora.
Indeed, we didn't find any loose trim or hear any squeaks or rattles during our test, while there's a real precision to everything you touch. The whole thing feels really well made while the doors close with a reassuring thud. There's no worrying about leaky window seals here.
The white ambient lighting helps brighten the cabin at night while V6 models get an exposed gearchange mechanism which we think is a delightful detail. The column stalks will be familiar to Volvo owners but that's no bad thing and we're so pleased to see proper air-conditioning controls.
The flat bottomed steering wheel is a little thick for our liking but it's still lovely to hold, while on automatic models you get quality-feeling metal paddle shifters.
Lotus Emira 2026: Infotainment
Rather than a big iPad style screen, the Lotus Emira sticks to a smaller display (it's 10.25 inches if that matters to you) that's reasonably well integrated into the dash. Rather oddly it is angled towards the passenger rather than the driver.
The system is simply laid out and easy to use with everything logically labelled and easy to find. That said, we found it quite dark and lacking in contrast in bright sunshine, making it hard to see at a glance. It's better when connected to Apple CarPlay which we found spot on. Android Auto is also included as standard.
We've heard reports from owners of phone connection issues but during our week of testing – and connecting several phones – we didn't experience any issues or lag. In fact it was far better than many other systems we've tested.
We did struggle to get DAB to work, although that may be our semi-rural location but it's rarely an issue in other cars we test. So no Radio 4 Extra for us. On the plus side the 'quick panel' is great, allowing you to switch off things like lane keep assist easily without having to dive into lots of menus.
There's a 190W seven-speaker audio system which delivers crisp sound although we prefer the music off and the windows open. This is a Lotus after all...
Lotus Emira value for money
Lotus Emira 2026: Prices
These are the current prices for the Lotus Emira (as of May 2026) although given that prices change often, check the Lotus site to make sure you have the most up to date Lotus Emira prices.
| Emira Turbo | £79,500 |
| Emira Turbo SE | £89,500 |
| Emira Turbo SE Racing Line | £92,500 |
| Emira V6 SE | £96,500 |
| Emira V6 SE Racing Line | £99,500 |
If you're looking at a used example, there are lots of well cared for examples with low miles available. A quick look on AutoTrader shows that prices start at around £57,000 (as of May 2026) while a budget of around £65k will give you lots of choice of mainly First Edition models – both V6 and Turbo.
Is the Lotus Emira good value compared with rivals?
When it comes to sport cars of this ilk, the notion of 'value' is more than just equipment levels and power outputs. Buy a Lotus Emira and you're getting something that's much rarer than the competition and arguably more special. It's also guaranteed to hold its value well.
Lotus launched the Emira to much fanfare with a promised starting price of £59,995. However, when it finally came to market, First Edition models were priced at £71,995 due to rising inflation and spec changes.
Around the same time you could get a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 for £76,500 or GTS 4.0 for £64,500. We like the Lotus a lot but we'd spend a long time mulling over whether to choose one over the exceptional Cayman GT4. Can't we just have both?
Meanwhile you can get an Alpine A110 GTS in 2026 for £70,340 although that's from stock as new orders have ceased. At that money we'd chose the Emira every time.
Lotus Emira 2026: Reliability and running costs
You're unlikely to be buying a Lotus Emira if running costs are top of your priority list, so don't be surprised that it sits in the top Group 50 for insurance. As for VED tax, it costs the standard £200 a year while all models have to pay the expensive car supplement – currently an extra £440 on top – from years two to six.
If you're buying new, don't forget the first tax payment when the car is first registered. This is based on emissions and for the Emira it means an extra £3420 for the Turbo and a hefty £5690 for the V6 due to its 258g/km of CO2.
Fuel economy for the V6 is 25-27mpg but of course start to enjoy all that power on a regular basis (and why wouldn't you) and you'll be seeing 18-20mpg. You'll want to use high octane premium petrol, too.
The 2.0-litre Turbo models are a bit more efficient, with an official figure of 30.7 mpg. Meanwhile, Lotus servicing isn't cheap, but this is also the case for its rivals.
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The Emira range in 2026 is made up of the Emira Turbo, Emira Turbo SE and Emira V6 SE.
The Lotus Emira Turbo gets:
- Two driving modes – Tour and Sport
- Integrated rear spoiler
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Co-driver pack
- Enhanced exhaust sound generation
- Touring chassis
- 20-inch lightweight cast alloy wheels
- Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tyres
- 4-piston brake calipers with ventilated single-piece discs
- Cruise control
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Integrated Vehicle Dynamics Control
- Electronic parking brake
- Integrated Traction Control
- Steering column with manual reach and height adjustment
- Electric 12-way adjustable seats with memory
- Keyless start
- Interior ambient lighting in white
- Single-zone climate control
- Air quality sensor with particle filter
- 1 x USB-C and 2 x USB-A connectors
- 10.25" landscape orientation multimedia touchscreen
- 12.3" TFT driver instrument display
- 190W seven-speaker audio system
- Heated and electrically adjustable folding side mirrors
- Driver and passenger airbags
- Curtain airbags
- Thorax airbags
- Alarm & immobiliser
- Clear stone chip protection
The Lotus Emira Turbo SE adds:
- Three driving modes – Tour, Sport and Track
- Launch control
- Sport-tuned Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Sport chassis
- 20-inch ultra-lightweight forged alloy wheels
Move up to the Lotus Emira V6 SE and you get:
- Lotus Driver's pack with sports suspension
- Black Alcantara interior with Grey stitching
- Exposed manual gearchange mechanism
Racing Line models add:
- Hand painted lower pinstripe in one of three colours
- Door mirror housings in matching colour
- Alcantara interior with stitching in matching colour
- Badges with matching colour accent
- 20-inch V-spoke ultra-lightweight Gloss Black alloy wheels
Model History
- June 2025: Lotus adds Emira V6 SE and Emira Turbo
- May 2025: Lotus launches Emira Clark Edition
- March 2025: Lotus revises Emira line-up with Turbo SE model
- July 2023: Lotus launches Emira Turbo
- March 2022: Lotus Emira First Edition launched
- September 2021: Lotus confirms full specification of Emira V6 First Edition
June 2025
Lotus adds Emira V6 SE and Emira Turbo
Lotus unveils the all-new Emira V6 SE, the latest addition to the Emira line-up. The new model joins the existing range, which already includes the Turbo SE.
At the same time, Lotus introduces a number of refinements across the Emira range. These include two new colours - EOS Green and Purple Haze metallic - and further optimisation of the cooling and transmission. In addition to the new Emira V6 SE and Turbo SE, the Emira Turbo joins the line-up as the entry point to the model range.
Emira V6 SE
The new Emira V6 SE builds on the pure driving pleasure Lotus is known for. The six-cylinder powertrain of the Emira remains unchanged: a supercharged 3.5-litre V6 engine with 400 hp, mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with LSD (Limited Slip Differential) as standard or an optional automatic transmission, allowing for a 0-62 mph sprint in 4.3 seconds.
The V6 has been refined for even more emotional engagement, including the introduction of a new compression mount for the manual gearbox, resulting in more precise gear changes.
Also, optimised damper calibration and subtle adjustments in wheel alignment provide sharper handling and increased ride comfort. The car has two defined chassis and suspension settings.
Tour is tuned for everyday road use, delivering the optimum blend of Lotus dynamic performance and handling with a more comfortable ride. Sports provides a slightly stiffer suspension set-up for enhanced dynamic capability and feel. Hydraulic steering provides excellent feedback for the driver.
The Emira V6 SE is finished in Zinc Grey as standard and sets itself apart with exclusive features such as specific V6 SE badges, the extended Black Pack, 20-inch forged alloy wheels, red brake callipers and a luxurious interior finished with alcantara and sport pedals. The Emira V6 SE stands out with a high degree of personalisation, featuring 15 exterior colours and seven interior themes.
This is complemented by a choice of four brake calliper finishes and eight wheel designs, allowing for a uniquely tailored expression of the car’s character. Prices for the Emira V6 SE start at £96.500.
Simultaneously with the introduction of the V6 SE, Lotus provides the existing Emira models with a series of technical enhancements that improve both track performance and daily driving comfort.
The cooling system has been optimised by routing the coolant lines differently, providing better flow to both the transmission oil cooler and the main cooling radiator.
This results in more cooling and lower vehicle weight. In addition, the air-conditioning control system has been recalibrated to provide a more stable interior climate at high temperatures, and the opening temperature of the engine thermostat has been increased from 65°C to 75°C, improving heating and performance under severe conditions.
Finally, the Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) has been recalibrated, resulting in faster shift times, improved shift quality and smoother interaction between transmission and driver.
Emira Turbo
The Emira Turbo marks the entry point to the Emira lineup, designed for everyday usability while preserving the unmistakable Lotus driving thrill.
It is powered by the same 4-cylinder twin-scroll turbo engine and 8-speed DCT gearbox as found in the Turbo SE, both sourced from technology partner AMG and achieves a 0-62 mph sprint in 4.4 seconds. The Emira Turbo features both Tour- and Sport driving modes, and high-performance components such as double wishbones, an integrated rear spoiler and electro-hydraulic power steering.
Externally, the Emira Turbo stands out with Turbo badges, yellow-black Lotus emblems and satin silver details. The Emira Turbo is available to order from £79.500.
Racing Line
Finally, Lotus launches the Racing Line. For enthusiasts who want to give their Emira an extra sporty look, Lotus introduces the Racing Line design option, available on the Turbo SE and V6 SE. Racing Line adds a subtle, lower pinstripe in yellow, red or silver, perfectly matched to the colour of the brake callipers - the mirror caps get the same accent colour.
Racing Line badges with a matching accent, high-gloss black wheels and a black and silver exterior logo complete the dynamic look. Inside, it is further enhanced by a special interior badge and stitching in the chosen accent colour, creating a perfect match.
May 2025
Lotus launches Emira Clark Edition
Lotus honours one of the greatest drivers of all time with the introduction of the Emira Clark Edition, in collaboration with the Jim Clark Trust. This exclusive model, limited to just 60 cars for selected markets, will make its world debut leading at the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix.
The body is finished in Clark Racing Green with a contrasting black roof, silver mirrors and an iconic yellow racing stripe flared around the front end, inspired by Clark’s 1965 Indianapolis 500-winning Type 38.
A machined aluminium fuel filler cap with a blue anodised centre and yellow exhaust pipes further enhance the exclusive look. A hand-painted yellow pinstripe picks out the Emira swage line, complemented by Clark Edition branding on the doors inspired by the Clark logo used on his racing cars.
The interior exudes pure motorsport and nostalgia. The sports seats’ asymmetrical finish is reminiscent of the red-trimmed Lotus racing cars Clark drove in 1965 and emphasise the driver-focused nature of the Emira Clark Edition with a driver's seat upholstered in red leather and Alcantara, while the passenger seat is upholstered in black leather and Alcantara.
The Emira Clark Edition also has a sixties-style wooden gear knob and special commemorative Jim Clark badging featuring Clark’s personalised tartan from Lochcarron, Scotland. Additional details complement the interior, including a Jim Clark signature on the dashboard and Team Lotus detailing on the seats.
Every Emira Clark Edition will have numbered carbon fibre treadplates (1 of 60) adding to the exclusive feel of this very limited edition. Each customer will also receive a bespoke hand-crafted leather holdall with unique Clark Edition details.
The Emira Clark Edition is based on the Lotus Emira V6 and combines the brand’s sporting performance with a stylish tribute to the Scottish racing legend and his Lotus racing cars.
The Emira Clark Edition pricing will be £115,000 in the UK.
March 2025
Lotus revises Emira line-up with Turbo SE model
Lotus revamped its Emira line-up to include the new, more powerful Emira Turbo SE next to the Emira V6.
The Emira Turbo SE not only reflects the 2-litre turbocharged in-line four-cylinder engine but is also a tribute to an era in which the turbo was first implemented. Specifically in 1980, with the launch of the Turbo Esprit, which was one of the early production sports cars to use this technology.
Further, the Emira Turbo SE refers to an era when SE was originally an optional ‘Special Equipment’ package, first introduced on the Type 14 Elite. It was also used with the Type 26 Elan, Elan SE Turbo, Lotus Cortina and the Elan S3, Elan S4 and Plus 2.
In addition, Lotus has historically used the SE designation to identify higher output and more standard equipment, with the Esprit Turbo SE, Excel SE, Elan SE and the Europa SE as examples of that philosophy.
To stay true to the Lotus ‘SE’ naming, the Emira Turbo SE adopts ‘SE’ to reflect increased levels of performance and equipment.
Powered by a 4-cylinder variable geometry turbocharged engine with an 8-speed DCT gearbox, both sourced from technology partner AMG, the Emira Turbo SE has an output that has increased to 400 bhp (+40 bhp), with a torque increase of 50 Nm to 480 Nm.
The new performance figures equate to a higher top speed of 180 mph (+11 mph) and an even faster acceleration time 0-62 mph in just 4.0 seconds.
SE: Special Equipment
The Emira Turbo SE comes with the Lotus Drivers Pack as standard including Sports suspension settings, uprated cross drilled and ventilated two-piece brake discs and launch control as standard. In addition to performance enhancements the Emira Turbo SE also features a variety of core design features.
These include newly finished 20” V-spoke forged Satin Grey wheels as standard as well as Zinc Grey paint, Alcantara headliner, red brake callipers, new ‘Emira Turbo SE’ badging, new black Lotus branding and black Lotus badging and tailpipes.
The new Lotus Emira Turbo SE can now be ordered with prices starting from £89,500
July 2023
Lotus launches Emira Turbo
Lotus introduced four-cylinder engine which features state-of-the-art technologies to deliver incredible performance and remarkable efficiency. Supplied by technical partner Mercedes-AMG, the all-aluminium, turbocharged 2.0-litre unit is based on the world’s most powerful four-cylinder in series production.
Badged for launch as the Emira First Edition, it has been further developed by Lotus with new intake and exhaust systems, plus a bespoke calibration matched to new transmission shift-mapping.
Developing 360bhp (365PS) and 430Nm, this makes it a perfect match to the Emira’s lightweight, strong, stiff, bonded and extruded aluminium chassis structure and aligns to the Lotus ethos of delivering higher performance by reducing mass.
It’s also fitting that, as the final mainstream combustion engine Lotus two-seater, the Emira is the most powerful four-cylinder from Lotus in a rich bloodline of iconic models including the Elise, Esprit, Europa, Elan and Elite. And, at 180bhp/litre, it also has the highest specific power output in the Emira range.
Like the renowned 400bhp supercharged V6, the four-cylinder car delivers all the performance and responsiveness that drivers expect – 0-62mph in just 4.4 seconds and a 180mph maximum speed – while bringing its own unique character to the Emira range. That character is enhanced by the inherent day-to-day usability and comfort of the smooth and rapid shifting dual-clutch transmission.
March 2022
Lotus Emira First Edition launched
The new four-cylinder Emira is powered by a bespoke version of AMG’s M139 direct injection engine. It is manufactured specifically for the Lotus Emira, and includes hardware changes to aid mid-mounted integration and new software to give it a true Lotus character.
It is the world’s most powerful four-cylinder engine homologated for road use (up to 208bhp / litre), widely regarded as the world’s best i4 unit and has an enviable reputation for reliability.
Using cutting-edge technology, it delivers outstanding performance for comparatively low emissions. The twin-scroll turbocharger with roller bearings is optimised for fast spool-up and minimum lag. The exhaust system is designed by Lotus and unique to the Emira.
Key to its appeal is the standard-fit eight-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with paddleshift – a first for Lotus. Gavan Kershaw, Director, Vehicle Attributes, Lotus, said: “It’s a bespoke rear-wheel drive variant of the transmission developed by Lotus in collaboration with AMG. On top of that, the gearshift strategy has been defined by the Hethel team as part of the car’s performance attributes. It is unique to the Emira and optimised for the best blend of outstanding driving engagement and performance, fuel consumption and emissions.”
Delivering 360bhp, the car features a unique engine bay cover and C-pillar badging. As with the Emira V6 First Edition, the i4 version offers a high level of standard equipment and is available with a variety of ‘no-cost’ optional finishes and materials to enable customers to tailor the car to their own style. A number of additional cost options add an extra touch of personalisation.
The car rides on 20-inch ultra-lightweight V-spoke forged alloy wheels. They’re diamond-cut to create a premium two-tone finish, though silver or gloss black versions are available as a no-cost option. Two-piece brake discs – with branded calipers in either red, black, yellow or silver – are part of the First Edition spec, plus a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The car comes in one of six vibrant paint colours: Seneca Blue, Magma Red, Hethel Yellow, Dark Verdant, Shadow Grey and Nimbus Grey.
Exterior details include LED lights all round, a titanium exhaust finisher, heated power-fold door mirrors and rear parking sensors. The Lower Black Pack is fitted as standard, which means the front bumper air blades, front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser are all in finished in gloss black.
There are seven interior colour choices, all available at no extra cost. They are red, black, grey and tan Nappa leather, as well as black Alcantara with either red, yellow or grey stitching. Satin chrome trim finishers, white interior mood lighting and Lotus-branded sill kick plates complete the premium look.
The Emira First Edition costs £71,995.
The entry level four-cylinder Emira will, as previously revealed, cost £59,995.
The entry level Emira V6 will be launched in January 2023 and will cost £64,995.
September 2021
Lotus confirms full specification of Emira V6 First Edition
Lotus has confirmed the price and full specification of the all-new Emira V6 First Edition. The car, fully loaded with a host of desirable technology, infotainment and comfort features plus unique badging, costs £75,995.
The price in major European markets has also been released, including in Germany where the car is €95,995. Prices in other international markets, including USA and China, will be released in the coming weeks. Production of the Emira V6 First Edition will start in the spring, with the ‘i4’ four-cylinder First Edition arriving in the autumn.
Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars, commented: “The Emira is the most accomplished Lotus we've ever made, and to celebrate and reward our keenest early customers, we want to make the first cars extra special to own. The features have been carefully selected by our design team to make for a truly special and distinct First Edition.”
The Emira is an all-new mid-engine premium sports car that perfectly embodies the ongoing transformation of the Lotus business and brand. It features all the hallmarks that the automotive world has come to expect from a Lotus – striking design, thrilling dynamic performance delivering best-in-class ride and handling, outstanding aerodynamics and an unrivalled experience ‘For The Drivers’.
Building on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora, the Emira represents a quantum leap forward for Lotus. Those instantly recognisable brand signatures and core values have been combined with a paradigm shift in levels of practicality, comfort, functionality and technology. The Emira has been developed on a new lightweight bonded aluminium chassis – technology pioneered by Lotus and which remains an intrinsic part of the company’s sports car DNA.
Powering the V6 First Edition is the much-loved and Lotus-honed 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, mid-mounted behind the two seats. Developing 400hp, it’s mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with a visible gearchange mechanism and hydraulic power-assisted steering.
The car rides on 20-inch ultra-lightweight V-spoke forged alloy wheels. They’re diamond cut to create a premium two-tone finish, though silver or gloss black versions are available as a no-cost option. Two-piece brake discs with branded calipers are part of the First Edition spec, plus a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).
The First Edition comes in one of six vibrant paint colours: Seneca Blue – which was seen at the car’s launch in July – plus Magma Red, Hethel Yellow, Dark Verdant, Shadow Grey and Nimbus Grey. More colours will be available during 2022.
Exterior details include LED lights all round, a titanium exhaust finisher, heated power-fold door mirrors and rear parking sensors. The Lower Black Pack is fitted as standard, which means the front bumper air blades, front splitter, side sills and rear diffuser are all in finished in gloss black.
There are seven interior colour choices, all available at no extra cost. They are red, black, grey and tan Nappa leather, as well as black Alcantara with either red, yellow or grey stitching. Satin chrome trim finishers, white interior mood lighting and Lotus-branded sill kick plates complete the premium look.
The heated seats feature 12-way adjustability and two memory presets linked to the door mirrors (driver’s seat only). Climate control, cruise control, keyless start and selectable drive modes are all included.
Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and satellite navigation (in selected markets) are integrated into the Emira V6 First Edition, supported by Bluetooth and USB/12v sockets. The 10-channel/340W premium audio system has been developed in partnership with respected British brand KEF and includes DAB digital radio. All functions are accessed through a 10.25-inch centrally mounted touch-screen, with driver feedback through a 12.3-inch TFT instrument cluster ahead of the multi-function steering wheel.
Three more option packs are fitted as standard to the car, making four in total. The Drivers Pack gives customer the choice of Tour or Sport suspension with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tyres, or Sport suspension with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.
The Design Pack adds privacy glass, sports pedals, a black Alcantara headliner, and the choice of black, red, yellow or silver painted brake callipers. Lotus-branded footwell mats are also included. The Convenience Pack adds front parking sensors, rear reversing camera, rain-sensing wipers with aero blades, auto-dimming mirrors and a rear luggage storage net.
Options available at extra cost include a six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shift (£1,800 / €2,600 in Germany); and the Black Pack, which colours the roof, cantrails, mirror backs, rear Lotus badge and exhaust finisher (£1,200 / €1,370 in Germany).
Production of the Lotus Emira V6 First Edition will start in the spring, with the ‘i4’ four-cylinder First Edition arriving later in the autumn. An entry level Emira – priced from £59,995 – will be available during 2023.
