The Lotus Emira stands as a monumental offering from the British automaker Lotus Cars, marking the end of an era as the brand’s final internal combustion engine (ICE) sports car. Launched globally in 2021 and introduced to the Indian market in January 2025, the Emira blends the raw, driver-focused ethos that Lotus is renowned for with modern design and technology. It replaces iconic models like the Elise, Exige, and Evora, aiming to deliver a thrilling yet refined driving experience. With its sleek, supercar-inspired styling, cutting-edge engineering, and two potent engine options, the Emira appeals to enthusiasts who crave performance without sacrificing everyday usability. Available in select markets with a variety of trims and configurations, this mid-engine marvel has quickly garnered attention for its lightweight construction, precise handling, and competitive positioning against giants like the Porsche 718 Cayman and Chevrolet Corvette.
The Emira is more than just a car—it’s a celebration of Lotus’ heritage, distilled into a machine that promises to captivate drivers on both the road and the track. Whether you’re navigating the bustling streets of metro cities or carving through winding highways, the Emira offers a unique proposition: a sports car that’s as exhilarating as it is approachable. In this detailed overview, we’ll explore its technical specifications, variants, pricing in major Indian metro cities, and how it stacks up against its rivals.
Technical Specifications
The Lotus Emira comes with two distinct powertrain options, each tailored to deliver a unique driving experience. Below is a comprehensive table of its technical specifications, compiled from sources like CarDekho, ZigWheels, and CarWale, reflecting the latest available data as of March 17, 2025.
| Specification | Emira Turbo (2.0L) | Emira V6 (3.5L) |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 2.0L Turbocharged Inline-4 (Mercedes-AMG) | 3.5L Supercharged V6 (Toyota-sourced) |
| Displacement | 1998 cc | 3498 cc |
| Max Power | 360 bhp @ 6600 rpm | 400 bhp @ 6800 rpm |
| Max Torque | 430 Nm @ 3000-5500 rpm | 420 Nm @ 3500 rpm (Manual) / 430 Nm (Auto) |
| Transmission | 8-speed Dual-Clutch Automatic (DCT) | 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) |
| Cylinders | 4 | 6 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol | Petrol |
| Top Speed | 290 kmph (Turbo SE variant) | 283 kmph |
| 0-100 kmph | 4.4 seconds (Base) / 4.0 seconds (Turbo SE) | 4.3 seconds (Manual) / 4.2 seconds (Auto) |
| Length | 4412 mm | 4412 mm |
| Width | 1895 mm | 1895 mm |
| Height | 1225 mm | 1225 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2575 mm | 2575 mm |
| Kerb Weight | 1405 kg (approx.) | 1446 kg (Manual) / 1486 kg (Auto) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 liters | 55 liters |
| Suspension (Front) | Double Wishbone, Coil Springs | Double Wishbone, Coil Springs |
| Suspension (Rear) | Multi-link, Coil Springs | Multi-link, Coil Springs |
| Brakes (Front/Rear) | Ventilated Discs (Cross-drilled option) | Ventilated Discs (Cross-drilled option) |
| Tyres | Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport | Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | 2 |
Note: Specifications may vary slightly based on market-specific configurations and optional packages like the Lotus Drivers Pack.
Variants
The Lotus Emira is offered in multiple variants globally, with India currently receiving a streamlined lineup. Below is a table summarizing the available variants, focusing on the Indian market as of March 2025.
| Variant | Engine | Transmission | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emira Turbo | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 | 8-speed DCT | Base model, AMG-sourced engine, sport suspension |
| Emira Turbo SE | 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 | 8-speed DCT | Enhanced power (400 bhp), Lotus Drivers Pack, premium design elements |
| Emira V6 | 3.5L Supercharged V6 | 6-speed Manual / 6-speed Auto | Higher torque, manual option, premium interior |
In India, the Emira V6 with both manual and automatic transmissions has been launched, while the Turbo SE was introduced globally in March 2025, with potential availability in India later this year. The base Turbo variant is expected to follow as a more affordable option.
Price in Metro Cities
The Lotus Emira commands a premium price, reflecting its status as a high-performance sports car. Below is a table of its on-road prices in major Indian metro cities, based on ex-showroom prices from CarDekho and ZigWheels, adjusted for RTO, insurance, and taxes as of March 17, 2025.
| City | Ex-Showroom Price (₹) | On-Road Price (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 3.22 Crore | 3.70 – 3.71 Crore |
| Mumbai | 3.22 Crore | 3.75 – 3.80 Crore |
| Bangalore | 3.22 Crore | 3.78 – 3.82 Crore |
| Chennai | 3.22 Crore | 3.76 – 3.80 Crore |
| Kolkata | 3.22 Crore | 3.72 – 3.75 Crore |
Note: On-road prices include RTO charges, insurance, and TCS (Tax Collected at Source). Prices may vary slightly based on optional extras and dealership offers.
About the Lotus Emira
Design and Styling
The Lotus Emira is a visual masterpiece, drawing inspiration from the brand’s all-electric hypercar, the Evija. Its sculpted bodywork features sharp, aerodynamic lines and a cab-forward stance that exudes aggression and elegance. The front fascia boasts sleek LED headlights and prominent air intakes, while the rear showcases a diffuser and quad exhaust tips (on the V6) that amplify its sporty character. Available in 13 vibrant colors—ranging from Hethel Yellow to Magma Red—the Emira turns heads wherever it goes. The 20-inch V-spoke forged wheels, standard on higher trims like the Turbo SE, add a touch of sophistication, while the low-slung 1225 mm height emphasizes its track-ready posture.
Inside, the Emira marks a significant leap forward for Lotus in terms of quality and comfort. The cockpit is driver-centric, featuring a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Premium materials like Nappa leather and Alcantara adorn the seats and steering wheel, elevating the cabin’s ambiance. While storage is limited—typical of a mid-engine layout—the Emira offers a small rear trunk and space behind the seats for a carry-on bag, making it surprisingly practical for a sports car.
Performance and Handling
At the heart of the Lotus Emira lies its performance pedigree, a hallmark of the Lotus brand. The 2.0L Turbo Inline-4, sourced from Mercedes-AMG, delivers 360 bhp in the base trim, with the Turbo SE variant boosting output to 400 bhp and 480 Nm of torque. Paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, it achieves a 0-100 kmph sprint in as little as 4.0 seconds and a top speed of 290 kmph. The 3.5L Supercharged V6, a Toyota-derived unit tuned by Lotus, produces 400 bhp and up to 430 Nm, offering a choice between a visceral 6-speed manual or a smooth 6-speed automatic. Its acceleration is equally impressive, clocking 4.3 seconds (manual) or 4.2 seconds (auto) to 100 kmph.
What sets the Emira apart is its handling. Lotus has retained its signature hydraulic steering system, shunning electric alternatives for unparalleled feedback and precision. The lightweight aluminum chassis, combined with double-wishbone suspension front and rear, ensures exceptional agility. The optional Lotus Drivers Pack adds sports suspension, cross-drilled brakes, and launch control, making it a track-day favorite. Aerodynamics play a crucial role, with the Emira generating substantial downforce to maintain stability at high speeds. Whether on a twisty mountain road or a city street, the Emira’s balance and responsiveness are unrivaled in its class.
Technology and Features
The Lotus Emira embraces modernity without losing its analog soul. The infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though some reviewers note occasional lag. A 10-speaker audio system delivers crisp sound, while ambient lighting enhances the cabin’s mood. Safety features include rear parking sensors (standard), optional front sensors, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and collision mitigation assist. However, it lacks a sunroof or four-wheel drive, staying true to its purist roots.
The Emira’s engineering extends to its practicality. With a 55-liter fuel tank, it offers decent range for a sports car, though fuel efficiency isn’t its forte—expect around 8-10 kmpl in real-world conditions. The car’s compact dimensions (4412 mm long, 1895 mm wide) make it manageable in urban environments, a rarity for a mid-engine design.
Driving Experience
Driving the Lotus Emira is an event. The V6’s sonorous exhaust note fills the cabin, especially with the manual gearbox, where the exposed linkage adds a mechanical charm. The Turbo variants, with their AMG powerplant, offer a punchier mid-range and a refined DCT shift that rivals the best in the business. On the road, the firm suspension can feel stiff over potholes—a trade-off for its corner-carving prowess—but the Touring suspension option softens the ride for daily use. The steering is a standout, delivering telepathic communication between driver and road, a trait that’s increasingly rare in modern sports cars.
On the track, the Emira shines. Its low center of gravity and near-perfect weight distribution (roughly 43:57 front-to-rear) allow it to dance through corners with confidence. The brakes, while grabby at low speeds, provide immense stopping power under hard use. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a weekend enthusiast, the Emira rewards skill and engagement, living up to Lotus’ “For The Drivers” philosophy.
Market Positioning and Availability
In India, the Lotus Emira targets affluent buyers in metro cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, where supercar culture is thriving. Launched alongside the electric Emeya in January 2025, it’s distributed through select dealerships under Lotus’ parent company, Geely. The initial focus has been on the V6 variant, with the Turbo SE expected to broaden its appeal later in 2025. Globally, the Emira has faced production delays due to supply chain issues, but Lotus is ramping up output at its Hethel, UK facility to meet demand.
Close Competitors
The Lotus Emira enters a fiercely competitive segment, squaring off against established players. Here’s how it compares to its closest rivals:
Porsche 718 Cayman
The Porsche 718 Cayman is the Emira’s primary benchmark. Priced from ₹1.48 Crore (ex-showroom) in India, the base Cayman offers a 2.0L turbo flat-4 with 300 bhp, while the GTS 4.0 variant ups the ante to 394 bhp. The Cayman’s mid-engine layout and razor-sharp handling mirror the Emira’s strengths, but its electric steering lacks the hydraulic feel of the Lotus. Porsche’s interior is more luxurious and tech-laden, and its resale value is unmatched. However, the Emira undercuts the Cayman GTS in price and offers a manual option across its V6 range, appealing to purists.
Chevrolet Corvette Stingray
The Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, now in its C8 generation, brings American muscle to the mid-engine fray. Starting at around ₹2.5 Crore (estimated landed cost in India), it boasts a 6.2L V8 with 495 bhp, outpacing the Emira in raw power. Its 0-100 kmph time of 3.0 seconds leaves the Lotus behind, but the Corvette’s heavier 1530 kg kerb weight dulls its agility compared to the Emira’s nimble 1405-1486 kg. The Corvette offers more cargo space and a removable targa top, but its handling, while impressive, doesn’t match the Lotus’ finesse.
Alpine A110
The Alpine A110, priced at approximately ₹1.5 Crore globally (not officially available in India), is a lightweight rival at 1100 kg. Its 1.8L turbo-4 delivers 252 bhp in the base trim, with the A110S pushing 300 bhp. The Alpine’s featherweight construction rivals Lotus’ ethos, but its smaller engine lacks the Emira’s punch. The A110 excels in agility and offers a plush ride, but its limited brand presence and lack of a manual option cede ground to the Emira’s versatility.
Verdict on Competition
The Lotus Emira carves a niche between the clinical precision of the Porsche 718 Cayman, the brute force of the Chevrolet Corvette, and the featherlight charm of the Alpine A110. It’s not the fastest or most luxurious, but its blend of analog driving thrills, modern refinement, and competitive pricing makes it a compelling choice for enthusiasts seeking a pure sports car experience.
Final Thoughts!
The Lotus Emira is a fitting swan song for Lotus’ ICE legacy, blending heritage with innovation. Its striking design, potent engines, and razor-sharp handling make it a standout in the sports car realm. Priced between ₹3.70-3.82 Crore (on-road) in Indian metro cities, it’s a premium yet attainable option for those who prioritize driving pleasure over outright luxury. With variants like the Turbo SE and V6 catering to different tastes, the Emira offers versatility rare in its class. Against rivals like the Porsche 718 Cayman and Chevrolet Corvette, it holds its own with a unique character—lightweight, engaging, and unapologetically driver-focused. For anyone in Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore dreaming of a machine that stirs the soul, the Lotus Emira is a worthy contender.
