Colin-on-Cars

 Lotus comeback starts with Emira

It is a name that has been exceedingly quiet for some time but, Lotus is back with its all-new Emira the company says perfectly embodies the ongoing transformation of the Lotus business and brand as well as featuring all the hallmarks expected from a Lotus – striking design, thrilling dynamic performance and outstanding aerodynamics.

Building on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora, the Emira represents a quantum leap forward for Lotus and Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars says: “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 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. That vehicle architecture is wrapped with a design using cues clearly developed from the Evija. Key dimensions of the Emira are length 4 412 mm, width 1 895 mm, height 1 225 mm and wheelbase 2 575 mm. 

Powering the Emira will be a choice of two petrol engines, the 3,5-litre V6 that powered the Exige and Evora and, from summer 2022, the first new Lotus sports car engine for more than a decade makes its debut, with the Emira powered by AMG. The new-to-Lotus AMG unit is a turbo-charged 2,0-litre four-cylinder ‘i4’ from the performance division of Mercedes-Benz. 

Working with Lotus for the first time, AMG has come on board as technical partner on the Emira programme, with some fundamental changes made to the in-line four-cylinder set-up for its Lotus debut. Transverse-mounted and delivering rear-wheel drive, the unit has been modified with a new air intake system and new exhaust to suit the character of the Emira. 

The second engine is more familiar, the 3,5-litre supercharged Toyota V6 that is so loved by drivers of the Exige and Evora. Cars will be available with a manual, automatic and Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT). 

Across the Emira range, power output will between 268 kW and 298 kW at launch, with 0-100km/h acceleration in less than 4,5 seconds and top speeds of up to 290km/h. Maximum torque will be 430 Nm and CO2 emissions will start below 180 g/km. 

Manufacturing will take place at Lotus’ famous home in Hethel, Norfolk, following more than £100-million of new investment in the company’s UK facilities. 

Matt Windle adds: “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.”

 

LOTUS EMIRA RANGE TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Dimensions	Length 4 412 mm; width 1 895 mm (mirrors folded); height 1 225 mm; wheelbase 2 575 mm
Petrol engines	2,0-litre in-line four-cylinder / 3,5-litre V6
Transmissions	Manual, automatic and DCT
Power output	360-400hp
Maximum torque	430 Nm
Acceleration (0-62mph / 0-100km/h)	Less than 4.5 seconds
Top speed	Up to 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.