Lotus Turns The Emira Into A Sharper 414-HP Track Weapon

Lotus has never really believed in leaving well enough alone. The Emira was already quick, sharp, and dramatic, but apparently that still wasn’t enough. So now there’s the new Emira 420 Sport, a version that turns the dial further toward noise, grip, and track-day obsession.

The biggest surprise sits behind the seats. Instead of the old supercharged Toyota V6, Lotus continues backing the AMG-derived 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder. Here, it develops 414 hp and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque, sent exclusively to the rear wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.

Performance gains are small on paper, with 0-62 mph dropping to 3.9 seconds, but Lotus clearly cared more about sharpening responses than chasing headline numbers.

That philosophy shows up everywhere else. Buyers can add a Lightweight Handling Pack that strips out 55 lbs while adding serious hardware like adjustable Multimatic dampers, Michelin Cup 2 tires, a titanium exhaust, and a lightweight battery. It’s the sort of option list that tells you exactly who Lotus built this car for.

Visually, the 420 Sport looks more intense. There’s a deeper front splitter, larger cooling openings, extra vents around the wheel arches, and a louvred rear panel inspired by the old Esprit Turbo. Lotus says the aerodynamic revisions generate more downforce without adding drag, though honestly, the rear louvres probably matter just as much because they look cool.

Pricing starts at £105,900 in the UK and $122,900 in the U.S. In a world where performance cars keep getting bigger, heavier, and more digital, the Lotus still feels refreshingly old-school. Compact, rear-wheel drive, and built around the driver first, not touchscreen menus or software gimmicks.