Lotus Emira set for India launch in 2024

Lotus started its India innings with the Eletre SUV, but has already announced its second model for our market – the Emira sportscar. The Lotus Emira will be brought to a new Lotus-specific Exclusive Motors showroom in April 2024 in New Delhi. Interestingly, the Emira is Lotus’ first all-new series-production car in over a decade, and is also the last internal combustion engine sportscar to come from the brand.

Lotus Emira powertrain

The Emira for India will get three powertrain options – an AMG-sourced 360hp, 2.0-litre, four-cylinder turbo-petrol unit paired to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic and a Toyota-sourced 400hp, 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine that comes with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic. Power is sent to the rear wheels in all configurations.

At its lightest, the Emira weighs 1,405kg, and in its quickest avatar, the sportscar is claimed to be capable of sprinting from 0-100kph in less than 4.5 seconds, and continue on to a top speed of 290kph.

Lotus Emira exterior design

There’s no hiding the immense influence the Evija hypercar has had on the design of the Emira, especially at the front – those vertical LED headlights and the hood scoops are reminiscent of the hypercar. Other defining characteristics include the prominent air intakes, short overhangs and bulky haunches.

Those 20-inch alloys wrapped in Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport rubber fill the wheel arches well. At the rear, the flat C-shaped LED light clusters are linked by an LED brake light, which sit well above the rear vents and the dual exhaust.

Lotus Emira interior

One notable, readily apparent point, particularly when compared to Lotus cars of old, is the quality of materials and the fit and finish that's improved significantly. The cabin looks modern – courtesy the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen (with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) – and quite sporty. The flat-bottomed steering wheel with neat controls, the centre console and the side AC vents are among the bits that get a sporty metallic detailing, and this contrasts with the stitching and overall dark grey and black theme.

Again, unlike forbearers like the Exige and Evora, there’s more thought given to practicality in the Emira. There are cup holders, a slot to put your smartphone between them, and even bottle holders in the doors that can accommodate 500ml bottles. The armrest between the seats also has USB and 12V ports for powering small electronics. Although there's 208 litres behind the seats, the 151-litre boot may not be enough for luggage.

Lotus Emira features

The Emira’s feature set is also decently comprehensive with highlights including keyless go, automatic wipers, powered wing mirrors, optional front parking sensors (rear are standard), and an auto-dimming rear view mirror. The Emira also gets a 10-channel KE sound and four airbags, along with ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control, anti-collision system, fatigue alert, road sign information, vehicle speed limiter, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert and lane change assist. You can opt for launch control with the Lotus Drivers Pack.

Lotus Emira price and rivals

Lotus is expected to price the Emira under Rs 3 crore, ex-showroom, when it arrives next year after the showroom opens. However, higher-spec versions of rivals like the Porsche 718 Cayman and the Jaguar F-Type Coupe, with the 5.0-litre V8, are expected to undercut the Lotus.