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.