Lotus has launched not one, but two new Emira variants. The 400bhp V6 SE will serve as a new flagship, while the Turbo becomes the new entry-level model. The duo also ushers in engineering changes for the 2026MY car, with all Emiras benefitting from revised dampers and wheel alignment. Lotus promises greater ride comfort and sharper turn-in from the changes. As before, two suspension options are available: Tour is calibrated for everyday use, while Sport leans towards track use.

Cooling has been improved thanks to rerouted weight-saving pipework, with flow to the transmission oil cooler and the main radiators enhanced. While drivers may not notice this, they’ll certainly be aware of the revisions to the gearboxes. The eight-speed twin-clutch automatic has been recalibrated to offer faster shift times, while the six-speed manual promises more precise gear changes thanks to a new compression mount.

The Emira Turbo opens the range with a 2.0-litre M139 engine from Mercedes-AMG behind the passenger cabin. The four-cylinder unit features one twin-scroll turbocharger, and a 200bar piezo direct and port fuel injection system. It develops 360bhp at 6,800rpm and 317lb-ft (430Nm), propelling the car from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds, and on to a top speed of 171mph. 

The new Turbo and its more powerful Turbo SE stablemate use a revised version of the 8-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission, which has been recalibrated to offer faster shift times, and smoother interaction between the driver and the gearbox. Silver 20” cast alloy wheels feature at each corner, leaving the factory with Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport tyres wrapped around them. Inside, the two-piece seats are clad in black technical fabric as standard, with a nappa leather steering wheel ahead of the driver. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto can run wirelessly on the central infotainment display.

At the other end of the Emira range is the V6 SE. The flagship powertrain is a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 sourced from Toyota, making 400bhp at 6,500rpm, and 310lb-ft (420Nm). A choice of 6-speed automatic or LSD-equipped manual transmissions are available, with the latter offering the quicker 0-62mph time of 4.3 seconds, and a higher top speed of 180mph.

The SE model gains the Lotus Drivers Pack, comprising a Track Mode ESP setting, launch control, and switchable exhaust system. Black exterior badges, forged alloy wheels, Alcantara upholstery, and aluminium pedals come as standard.

The Emira has spawned plenty of special editions since its introduction, and the 2026 model continues this trend, with the Racing Line models for the V6 SE, and the recently introduced 400bhp Turbo SE. This adds colour coordinated brake callipers, mirrors, and pinstripes in silver, green, or red. The contrast stitching in the cabin, and the 12 o’clock marker on the steering wheel match the choice of exterior detailing. A Racing Line badge features on the dashboard, matching the one found by the rear window.

The final additions to the refreshed line-up are new 15-spoke wheels, and a pair of new exterior colours: EOS Green, and Purple Haze metallic, with the vivid hues available at additional cost. 

The updated Emira model range can be configured and ordered now, with deliveries commencing in September 2025. Pricing begins at £79,500 for the Turbo, £89,500 for the Turbo SE, and £96,500 for the V6 SE. The Racing Line models add £3,000 to the list prices before options.

Rumours have long circulated regarding the demise of the Toyota sourced V6 and the manual transmission option, with the AMG engine taking centre stage, but the new V6 SE proves there is life in the current powertrain offering yet.