The automotive world is witnessing something truly special with the arrival of the Lotus Emira. This isn’t just another sports car joining an already crowded market – it’s the final chapter in Lotus’s petrol-powered legacy, and what a spectacular send-off it promises to be.
The Last Dance for Internal Combustion
As the automotive industry rapidly shifts toward electrification, the Emira stands as Lotus’s final tribute to the internal combustion engine. But rather than feeling like a relic, this sports car represents everything the brand has learned about creating the perfect driving machine. It’s a car that honors tradition while embracing modernity.
Two Hearts, One Soul
The Emira offers drivers a choice between two compelling powertrains, both delivering an impressive 400 horsepower. The first option is a tried-and-tested 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine sourced from Toyota, the same unit that powered the beloved Evora. This engine pairs beautifully with either a six-speed manual transmission for purists or a six-speed automatic for those who prefer convenience.
The second option brings a touch of German engineering with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine from Mercedes-AMG. This modern powerplant delivers not only 400 horsepower but also an impressive 354 pound-feet of torque, channeled through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Design That Stops Traffic
Walking up to an Emira parked on any street will quickly teach you about the power of exceptional design. This car doesn’t just look expensive – it looks exotic. The stunning bodywork takes clear inspiration from Lotus’s Evija hypercar, featuring dramatic air intakes, sculpted surfaces, and proportions that make it appear larger and more valuable than its actual footprint suggests.
The cab-forward stance and wide hips give the Emira serious road presence, while every vent and intake serves a functional purpose. Those dramatic hood cuts aren’t just for show – they extract hot air from the cooling system, while the side intakes feed the mid-mounted engine with fresh air.
Interior Revolution
Previous Lotus sports cars were notorious for their spartan, sometimes dated interiors. The Emira changes that narrative completely. Step inside, and you’re greeted by a cabin that feels genuinely premium, with soft leather surfaces, real metal detailing, and a level of fit and finish that rivals much more expensive competitors.
Technology That Actually Works
The centerpiece of the interior is a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Behind the wheel, drivers enjoy a beautiful 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster that provides all necessary information in a clear, attractive format. Physical controls for climate functions ensure you’re not hunting through menu systems while driving.
The seats deserve special mention – they’re not only supportive enough for spirited driving but comfortable enough for genuine daily use. This represents a major step forward for Lotus, making the Emira practical in ways previous models simply weren’t.
Engineering Excellence
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 3.5L Supercharged V6 / 2.0L Turbo 4-cyl |
| Power Output | 400 hp (both engines) |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft (V6) / 354 lb-ft (4-cyl) |
| Transmission | 6-speed Manual, 6-speed Auto, 8-speed DCT |
| 0-60 mph | 4.3 seconds (V6 Manual) |
| Dimensions | 4412mm L x 1895mm W x 1225mm H |
| Weight | Approximately 3,200 lbs |
| Fuel Economy | 16 city / 24 highway (V6 Manual) |
The Lotus Touch
What truly sets the Emira apart from its competitors isn’t just the specifications on paper – it’s how everything comes together. The car uses hydraulic power steering instead of electric systems, providing unfiltered feedback that connects you directly to the road surface. This old-school approach to steering feel is becoming increasingly rare in modern sports cars.
The chassis itself is built around Lotus’s proven aluminum architecture, providing exceptional rigidity while keeping weight in check. The weight distribution of 39/61 front-to-rear ensures balanced handling characteristics that reward skilled drivers while remaining manageable for everyday use.
Daily Driver Capabilities
Unlike previous Lotus models that required significant compromises for daily use, the Emira has been designed from the ground up to be genuinely practical. The entry and exit process no longer requires yoga-level flexibility, thanks to redesigned door openings and lower sills. Storage space, while still limited by sports car standards, includes useful areas like door bins that can accommodate water bottles and twin cup holders in the center console.
Real-World Performance
On the road, the Emira delivers exactly what you’d expect from a modern Lotus – exceptional handling balance, precise steering, and an engaging driving experience that makes even mundane journeys feel special. The suspension can be ordered in either Touring or Sports configurations, allowing buyers to prioritize comfort or track-focused performance based on their intended use.
The driving experience emphasizes involvement over outright speed. While the Emira is certainly quick enough to satisfy most drivers, its real strength lies in how it communicates with the person behind the wheel. Every input feels meaningful, every corner becomes an opportunity for enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Lotus Emira reliable for daily driving?
A: Yes, the Emira has been designed specifically to be more practical and reliable than previous Lotus models, with improved build quality and modern technology.
Q: How does the Emira compare to a Porsche Cayman?
A: The Emira offers similar performance with more exotic styling and hydraulic steering feel, though the Porsche may have better resale value and dealer network.
Q: When will Lotus stop making the Emira?
A: As Lotus’s final petrol-powered car, production will continue for several years, but an exact end date hasn’t been announced as the company transitions to electric vehicles.
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