The Lotus Emira 3.5 V6, launched in March 2022, represents a pivotal moment for the British sports car manufacturer. It’s the final internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle Lotus will produce, serving as a bridge between the brand’s storied past and its fully electric future. Positioned as the successor to the long-running Elise, Exige, and Evora models, the Emira aims to deliver a more refined and accessible sports car experience while retaining the core Lotus principles of lightweight construction and exceptional handling. This specific 3.5 V6 variant, producing 405 horsepower, is the higher-performance option within the initial Emira lineup, offering a significant step up from the anticipated four-cylinder models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Lotus |
| Model | Emira |
| Generation | Emira |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 V6 (405 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 243 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 290 km/h / 180.2 mph |
| Power | 405 Hp |
| Power per litre | 117.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 420 Nm / 309.78 lb.-ft. |
| Maximum engine speed | 6800 rpm |
| Engine layout | Middle, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 2GR-FE |
| Engine displacement | 3456 cm3 / 210.9 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 94 mm / 3.7 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 83 mm / 3.27 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 151 l / 5.33 cu. ft. |
| Length | 4412 mm / 173.7 in. |
| Width | 1895 mm / 74.61 in. |
| Height | 1225 mm / 48.23 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2575 mm / 101.38 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.349 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Emira 3.5 V6 is the Toyota-sourced 2GR-FE engine. This naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 has a long and respected lineage, appearing in various Toyota and Lexus models. Lotus has paired this engine with a supercharger, significantly boosting its output to 405 horsepower and 309.78 lb.-ft. of torque. The engine features a dual-injection system (direct and port injection) to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery across the rev range. The valvetrain utilizes four valves per cylinder, contributing to the engine’s high-revving nature. The 6-speed manual transmission is sourced from Aisin, chosen for its robust construction and precise shift feel. The engine is mounted longitudinally in a mid-engine configuration, contributing to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The Emira 3.5 V6 delivers a thrilling driving experience. The supercharged V6 provides strong, linear acceleration, with peak torque available from relatively low engine speeds. The manual transmission’s gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s powerband, allowing for quick and engaging shifts. Compared to a potential future four-cylinder variant, the 3.5 V6 offers a more immediate and visceral response, along with a distinctive exhaust note. While the Emira is designed to be more approachable than previous Lotus models, it still retains a firm ride and direct steering feel, characteristic of the brand. The mid-engine layout contributes to exceptional balance and cornering agility. The 0-60 mph time of around 4.1 seconds places it firmly in the performance car category.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Emira 3.5 V6 comes standard with a comprehensive list of features, reflecting its position as the flagship model. Interior appointments include leather and Alcantara upholstery, a modern infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a premium sound system. Standard safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras include a Driver’s Pack (featuring selectable drive modes and launch control), a Convenience Pack (adding parking sensors and a reversing camera), and various cosmetic enhancements. The interior design represents a significant step up in quality and refinement compared to previous Lotus models, with a greater emphasis on comfort and usability.
Chassis & Braking
The Emira utilizes a bonded aluminum chassis, a Lotus hallmark, prioritizing lightweight construction and high torsional rigidity. This contributes significantly to the car’s handling prowess. The suspension features fully independent double wishbones at all four corners, optimized for both on-track performance and road comfort. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The steering system employs a hydraulic rack and pinion, delivering precise and communicative feedback to the driver. The Emira’s relatively low weight (around 3,100 lbs) further enhances its agility and responsiveness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Lotus Emira 3.5 V6 has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Praise has been directed towards its engaging driving dynamics, powerful engine, and improved interior quality. Some reviewers have noted the firm ride as a potential drawback for everyday use. Compared to other sports cars in its price range, such as the Porsche 718 Cayman, the Emira offers a unique blend of performance, handling, and exclusivity. The Emira’s fuel economy is typical for a high-performance sports car, with a WLTP-rated CO2 emission of 243 g/km. Reliability is still being assessed, but the Toyota-sourced engine is known for its durability.
Legacy
The Lotus Emira 3.5 V6 holds a significant place in Lotus’s history as the last ICE-powered vehicle the company will produce. It represents a culmination of decades of sports car engineering expertise. The 2GR-FE engine, already proven in numerous applications, is expected to be a reliable and durable powertrain. On the used car market, the Emira 3.5 V6 is likely to become a sought-after model, particularly among Lotus enthusiasts, as it embodies the brand’s traditional values while offering a modern and refined driving experience. Its status as a “final edition” model will likely contribute to its long-term collectibility.
