Lotus unveils all-new mid-engined Emira sports car

If you’re looking for something new to pin up onto your vision wall – introducing the Lotus Emira.

The first all-new Lotus sports car designed and ready for production under the Vision80 strategy which is Lotus’ transformation as it heads toward the 80th anniversary of the company in 2028.

A classic Lotus as a mid-engined sports car, with a choice of two petrol engines. One is new to Lotus, and is a 2.0 litre turbo from AMG, as well as the 3.5 litre supercharged V6 used in the Exige and Evora.

Between 360 and 400hp, hitting 0-100 in 4.5 seconds, topping out at 290km/h.

No Aussie prices as yet, but this is a $110,000+ car – but heck, look at it.

If you’ve ever driven a Lotus, you know they are built to be driven, Lotus say the Emira follows that pedigree to the letter, but adds practicality, comfort, function and technology.

Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars commented: “The Emira is a game-changer for Lotus. It stands as a beacon of everything we have achieved to date in the transformation of the business, the embodiment of our progress. It is a highly significant milestone on our path to becoming a truly global performance car brand.” 

The AMG engine is a big deal for Lotus, with AMG as a technical partner, with the in-line four-cylinder transverse mounted to deliver rear-wheel-drive with a new air intake system and exhaust.

The Lotus Emira will be manufactured at Lotus’ Norfolk factory, after a 100 million pound investment in facilities in the UK.

Matt Windle added: “The Lotus Emira is the most accomplished Lotus road car ever to roll through the Hethel factory gates. Beautifully proportioned with a stunning design inspired by the Evija all-electric hypercar, it’s the perfect package. The Emira is a junior supercar with all the thrills and head-turning characteristics found in the greatest Lotus cars, but at the same time is an everyday sports car that’s high on comfort and functionality, packed with the latest technology demanded by the discerning driver.” 

More than anything, it’s stunning.

Price range	Starting at less than £60,000 (less than €72,000)
Dimensions	Length 4,412mm; width 1,895mm (mirrors folded); height 1,225mm; wheelbase 2,575mm
Petrol engines	2.0-litre in-line four-cylinder / 3.5-litre V6
Transmissions	Manual, automatic and DCT
Power output	360-400hp
Maximum torque	430Nm
Acceleration  (0-62mph / 0-100km/h)	Less than 4.5 seconds
Top speed	Up to 180mph (290km/h)
CO2 emissions	Start below 180g/km
EU DIN kerb weight	1,405kg in its lightest form
Connectivity and infotainment	10.25-inch touch-screen; integrated navigation*; Apple CarPlay / Android Auto; KEF Uni-Q premium audio system  * not available in all markets
Key technology and features	Keyless-go; cruise control; rain-sensing wipers; electric folding door mirrors; powered seats; all-LES exterior lights; adaptive cruise control; anti-collision system; fatigue alert; road sign information; vehicle speed limiter; lane departure warning; rear cross traffic alert; lane change assist.