QUANTUM LEAP

Building on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora, Lotus’ last internal combustion engine sportscar, the Emira, represents a milestone moment for the Hethel brand

The Emira is available with a choice of two engine options, a modified version of Mercedes-amg’s 2,0-litre turbocharged four-pot, mated to AMG’S DCT, and a 3,5-litre supercharged V6 sourced originally from a Toyota Camry, which can be had with either a manual or automatic cog swapper. Power output ranges between 268 kw and 298 kw, with 430 N.m sent to the rear axle. Lotus maintains this will deliver a zero to 100 km/h sprint time of less than 4,5 seconds and a top speed of 290 km/h.

According to the Hethelbased firm, the Emira has a wider track than any recent Lotus road car. This enhances stability, delivers exceptional road-holding and a low centre of gravity.

Two chassis settings are available: Tour and Sport. Set to the former and the Emira’s chassis is tuned for comfortable everyday use. Available with the optional Drivers Pack, Sport mode features a stiffer suspension setup, like Lotuses of old.

As standard, the Emira is fitted with a set of 20-inch alloys. The wheels are wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 rubber.

The Emira’s cabin design is still driver focused but it’s also the most user friendly and comfortable in the firm’s history. The interior features a centrally mounted 10,25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, replete with Apple Carplay and Android Auto and satellite navigation, and a digital instrumentation panel. Lotus says the seats have been designed for exceptional lateral support for highspeed cornering and total comfort for long-distance journeys.

The Lotus Emira measures 4 412 mm nose to tail, 1 895 mm wide and 1 225 mm tall. Wheelbase length is 2 575 mm. According to the British sportscar manufacturer, “in its lightest form”, the Emira tips the scales at 1 405 kg.