Lotus enthusiasts in the United States will finally get the chance to drive the highly anticipated Lotus Emira sports car, as it is set to arrive in the third quarter of 2023. This comes two years after its initial debut, creating a sense of anticipation among car enthusiasts. To add to the excitement, Lotus has launched a configurator on its U.S. website, allowing customers to customize their own Emira to their heart’s desire.
However, there is a slight change in pricing compared to the initial announcement. The first version to hit the U.S. market will be the Emira First Edition, which will come equipped with a powerful V-6 engine. This version carries a starting price of $105,400, reflecting the exclusivity and performance-oriented nature of the car. Customers who prefer a standard 4-cylinder engine can opt for the Emira First Edition, which will arrive in the first quarter of 2024 at a slightly lower starting price of $99,900.
It’s worth noting that these prices do not include destination charges. Despite the slight increase in price, the Emira First Edition comes loaded with additional features and enhancements. These include 12-way adjustable seats, luxurious Nappa and Alcantara trim, a premium KEF sound system, and the coveted Lotus Drivers Pack. The Drivers Pack adds a track mode for the stability control, along with the option to choose between Tour or Sport suspension settings. Additionally, customers can select between Goodyear Eagle F1 Supersport or Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, further enhancing the car’s performance capabilities.
Those who are willing to forego the First Edition treatment can expect more affordable options. Lotus is likely to offer Emira models without the First Edition embellishments at lower starting prices, allowing more enthusiasts to join the Lotus family.
Under the Emira’s sleek and aerodynamic hood, there are two engine options available. The 4-cylinder variant boasts a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine sourced from Mercedes-Benz AMG, offering a thrilling 360 horsepower. This engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and precise gear changes.
For those seeking even more power and performance, the Emira also offers a V-6 engine option. Based on a Toyota engine, this supercharged 3.5-liter V-6 delivers an impressive 400 horsepower. The V-6 comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, providing a more engaging and connected driving experience. Customers also have the option to upgrade to a 6-speed automatic transmission for an additional cost of $2,150.
The Emira represents the end of an era for Lotus, as it is the last car from the legendary British automaker to be equipped with an internal combustion engine. As the automotive industry shifts towards electric powertrains, Lotus has plans to introduce the Eletre electric SUV to the U.S. market in 2024. With up to 905 horsepower on offer, the Eletre is set to continue Lotus’ tradition of delivering exhilarating performance and driving dynamics for future electric vehicle enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Lotus Emira’s arrival in the U.S. market in 2023 is highly anticipated by sports car enthusiasts. While there has been a slight increase in pricing, the Emira First Edition comes packed with features and enhancements to justify the higher cost. Furthermore, the availability of a configurator allows customers to personalize their Emira and make it truly unique to their preferences. With its sleek design, powerful engine options, and the promise of future electric offerings, Lotus continues to push the boundaries of performance and innovation in the automotive industry.