Like it or not, the Emira is the only sports car made by Lotus. Replacing the illustrious Elise, Exige and Evora was always going to be controversial, but the more dailyable model has still received plaudits for retaining a decent chunk of the character that the previous range had in droves. The 2025 range includes the Turbo SE, an improved version of the previous base model, as well as the V6 that the Emira was initially only available with.
More Than Just a Name Change
The new Lotus Emira Turbo SE features a few tangible upgrades over the previous four-cylinder variant. The highly-strung AMG-derived engine gains 40 horses, taking the total to 400hp. Torque is also increased to a hefty 480Nm.
Paired with an 8-speed DCT gearbox, the Lotus Emira Turbo SE can reach 62mph from standstill in 4 seconds and it gains an extra 11mph of top-end speed, taking its peak to 180mph.
Aside from the barmy engine, the updated model receives some more upgrades. The Lotus Drivers Pack is standard, adding Sports suspension settings, uprated brakes and launch control.
There’s also a host of included design features, such as 20-inch forged Satin Grey wheels, Zinc Grey paint, red brake calipers and black exterior details.
The result of these changes is a price increase of £8,000, resulting in a base price of £89,500. This is particularly punchy, making it one of the most expensive four-pots on the market as only a few AMGs that share the same engine are dearer.
The V6 Model is Not Entirely Left Out
The V6 isn’t the headline variant, but it still receives a few improvements. Fortunately, the option of a six-speed manual is still available, although the power output of 400hp remains unchanged.
The V6 gets the same uprated brakes as the Turbo SE, stickier tyres, Touring suspension and a limited-slip differential in manual cars. Design-wise, the interior features more black fabric and new model branding.
The cost of this new model? £92,500 before options, another price rise.
Part of a Wider Expansion
Recently the 10,000th Emira rolled off the production line at the Hethel factory. While insignificant in the wider automotive market, it represents a big shift for Lotus.
Following an investment exceeding £100 million, the annual capacity of the plant sits at 5000 cars per year, over three times what it was a decade ago. Lotus boasts that the Emira has already outsold the Espirit, a car that was on sale for more than three decades.
