The Lotus Emira is Lotus's final gasoline-powered sports car, arriving as electric vehicles dominate future plans. It aims to capture the essence of traditional sports car driving with its lightweight design and driver-focused mechanics. The car offers two engine options: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder from Mercedes-AMG producing 360 hp, and a 3.5-liter supercharged V6 from Toyota delivering 400 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The V6 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds.
The Emira distinguishes itself with a direct, mechanical feel, emphasizing hydraulic steering and an engaging connection to the road. This contrasts with the more refined, digital experience of many modern sports cars. While praised for its handling, grip, and powerful engine, some reviewers noted minor issues and quirks, such as a stiff ride, occasional build quality concerns like a broken shift linkage during testing, and tough over-the-shoulder visibility.
The V6 Emira, with a starting price around $94,960 for the First Edition, competes with cars like the Porsche 718 Cayman GTS 4.0, which shares a similar price point. The Emira is seen as a deliberate choice for enthusiasts seeking a raw driving experience, prioritizing character and engagement over absolute refinement, embodying the brand's long-standing philosophy of lightweight performance. Its existence represents a brief moment to savor a final internal combustion model before Lotus fully transitions to electric offerings under its ownership by Geely Holding Group.
