Amsterdam – British sports car manufacturer Lotus has redefined its Emira line-up with the unveiling of the all-new Emira Turbo SE, a high-performance flagship that takes the model’s capabilities to new heights. Alongside the updated Emira V6, the Emira Turbo SE replaces the previous First Editions, offering enhanced power, improved aerodynamics, and cutting-edge technology—all while staying true to Lotus’s ethos of driver-focused engineering.
A Name Reborn: The Legacy of Turbo SE
The Emira Turbo SE name harks back to Lotus’s rich heritage, drawing inspiration from iconic models such as the Turbo Esprit of 1980, one of the pioneering production sports cars to adopt turbocharging technology. The ‘SE’ (Special Equipment) badge also has historical significance, having been used on legendary Lotus models including the Type 14 Elite, Lotus Cortina, and Esprit Turbo SE, signifying higher performance and premium specifications.
Enhanced Performance: Turbocharged Precision
Under the hood, the Emira Turbo SE is powered by a cutting-edge 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine, sourced from AMG and paired with an advanced 8-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT). With an output increase to 400bhp (+40bhp) and torque raised to 480Nm (+50Nm), this lightweight sports car achieves a blistering 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in just 4.0 seconds, with a top speed of 290 km/h (180 mph). This makes it the fastest Emira ever produced, setting a new benchmark in Lotus’s sports car lineage.
Designed for Performance: SE Special Upgrades
Staying true to the ‘SE’ designation, the Emira Turbo SE features an array of performance-enhancing and design upgrades:
- Lotus Drivers Pack as standard, including sportier suspension tuning
- Cross-drilled and ventilated two-piece brake discs for enhanced stopping power
- Launch control for optimised acceleration
- 20-inch V-spoke forged Satin Grey wheels
- Zinc Grey paint finish, exclusive to the SE variant
- Alcantara headliner and red brake calipers for a sportier aesthetic
- New black Lotus badging and ‘Emira Turbo SE’ insignia
Emira V6: The Alternative Powerhouse
For those seeking a more traditional Lotus driving experience, the Emira V6 remains an option. It continues to feature a 3.5-liter supercharged V6 producing 400bhp, available with a six-speed manual (with a limited-slip differential) or an optional six-speed automatic. The V6 model retains the dynamic handling characteristics expected from Lotus, with performance-focused enhancements such as Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport tyres and an aerodynamically refined design.
Pricing for the Emira Turbo SE starts at €109,490, while the Emira V6 is available from €112,490.
Hethel’s Engineering Excellence: The 10,000th Emira Milestone
Manufactured in Lotus’s state-of-the-art facility in Hethel, UK, the Emira continues the brand’s legacy of precision engineering. The 10,000th Emira has rolled off the production line, marking a significant milestone as the fastest-produced model in Lotus’s history. With Hethel’s production capacity now at 5,000 cars per year, Lotus has surpassed the total number of Esprit models ever built—achieved in under four years.
“The Emira is the most accomplished Lotus road car ever produced,” says Matt Windle, Group VP & Managing Director of Lotus Cars. “It blends breathtaking design, cutting-edge technology, and exhilarating performance, making it the perfect modern sports car for driving enthusiasts.”
Available Now: The Future of Lotus Performance
The all-new Lotus Emira Turbo SE is available to order now, with showroom debuts set for April 2025. With its combination of increased power, aggressive styling, and motorsport-inspired technology, the Emira Turbo SE cements Lotus’s position as a leader in lightweight, high-performance sports cars.
