Lotus, having made its entry into the Indian market with the Eletre SUV, is set to introduce its second model, the Emira sports car. Scheduled to be showcased at a new Lotus-specific Exclusive Motors showroom in New Delhi in April 2024, the Emira stands out as Lotus' inaugural entirely new series-production car in over a decade. Notably, it marks the brand's final foray into the realm of internal combustion engine sports cars.
Lotus Emira Powertrain Options
For the Indian market, the Lotus Emira will present three powertrain options and these include a 360hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine sourced from AMG, mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. Additionally, a Toyota-sourced 400hp, 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine will be available offering the choice of a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission. All configurations will feature rear-wheel drive. The Emira, at its lightest, weighs 1,405kg. In its fastest iteration, the sports car boasts a sprint time of less than 4.5 seconds for 0-100kph acceleration and a top speed of 290kph.
Lotus Emira Exterior Design
Drawing inspiration heavily from the design language of the Lotus Evija hypercar, the Emira exhibits distinct characteristics, notably the vertical LED headlights and hood scoops reminiscent of its hypercar counterpart. Notable features include prominent air intakes, short overhangs, and robust haunches, and the wheel arches are filled with 20-inch alloys wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport rubber. At the rear, the flat C-shaped LED light clusters are connected by an LED brake light, positioned above the rear vents and the dual exhaust.
Lotus Emira Interior
Compared to previous Lotus models, the Emira showcases a significant improvement in the quality of materials and fit and finish. The modern cabin incorporates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Sporty metallic detailing is evident in the flat-bottomed steering wheel, controls, center console, and side AC vents, contrasting with the overall dark grey and black theme. Practicality is given due consideration, with cup holders, a smartphone slot, bottle holders in the doors, and USB and 12V ports in the armrest. Despite 208 liters of space behind the seats, the 151-liter boot might pose limitations for luggage.
Lotus Emira Features
The Emira boasts a comprehensive feature set, including keyless go, automatic wipers, powered wing mirrors, optional front parking sensors (rear sensors are standard), and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. Safety features include a 10-channel KE sound system, four airbags, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, anti-collision system, fatigue alert, road sign information, device speed limiter, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane change assistance. The Lotus Drivers Pack offers the option to include launch control.
Lotus Emira Price and Competition
Expected to be priced under Rs 3 crore, ex-showroom, the Lotus Emira is anticipated to be available in the Indian market next year following the showroom launch. However, rival models, particularly higher-spec versions of competitors like the Porsche 718 Cayman and the Jaguar F-Type Coupe featuring the 5.0-litre V8 engine, are expected to offer competitive pricing against the Lotus offering.