The turbocharged 2.0-liter Emira produces 360 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque.
British automaker Lotus has confirmed the arrival of the four-cylinder Emira, an entry-level model that will be sold alongside the lustier V6 derivative. We've known for some time that the latest Lotus sports car would receive an AMG-sourced, turbocharged four-pot.
It's the same motor that does duty in the '35' and '45' lines of AMG performance cars and produces 360 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. That's not far off the 400 hp offered up by the Toyota-sourced 3.5-liter V6. Despite the compact powerplant, the four-pot Emira needs just 4.4 seconds to reach 62 mph and hit a 180 mph top speed.
Unlike the V6, which is offered as a manual or conventional automatic, the 2.0-liter Emira receives AMG's eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, which provides even quicker gear changes than its V6-powered counterpart.
According to Gavan Kershaw, Lotus' Director of Vehicle Attributes and Product Integrity, the Emira 2.0-liter has received special suspension tuning to deliver excellent body control.
“We've [also] calibrated engine and transmission mapping, in tandem with the Drive Modes, to create a refined and relaxed character in Tour, and with incredible launch performance, superb driveability, even quicker throttle response and kickdown in Sport and Track. We’ve also taken the opportunity to refine how the powertrain is linked to the traction and stability control systems to deliver the high-performance feel and connection that Lotus drivers expect.”
With the more compact engine, Lotus engineers were able to design a new lightweight cast aluminum rear subframe to improve the chassis structure. As a result, the company has managed to save 26.5 lbs compared to the steel assembly used in the V6 Emira.
In conjunction with the arrival of the turbocharged Emira, the US configurator has been updated to include the newcomer. Currently, only the First Edition is available. The four-cylinder model weighs in at $99,900. undercutting the V6 by $5,500. Two chassis options are available; Touring and Sports.
The former is tuned for everyday use and provides a more comfortable setup while still providing a sporty feel. The Sports chassis has a stiffer suspension setup that should appeal to keen drivers who want to press on at high speed.
Both models are available with a total of 13 exterior colors, including Hethel Yellow, Seneca Blue, and Dark Verdant. All these shades are no-cost options, but you will have to fork out $1,400 for the Black Pack, which includes black-painted roof panels, badges, and side mirror caps, among other things.
There's just one wheel design – Ultra-Lightweight V-spoked Forged alloys – but it can be specified in three distinct finishes: Gloss Black, Diamond Cut, and Silver. There are also three brake caliper finishes: silver, red, and yellow.
A variety of upholstery options are up for grabs, including more traditional leathers and sportier Alcantara finishes. Several steering wheel designs are also provided, but you must pay $530 to upgrade from the standard leather-wrapped item. Aside from a vehicle tracker ($690), there's not much else to choose from.
“With the four-cylinder Emira joining the range, we're adding a new dimension to the car's breadth of capability and appeal, offering new levels of efficiency and accessibility while continuing to offer all the performance and agility that our customers expect,” said Mike Johnstone, Group Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer for Lotus.
The Emira will be assembled exclusively at Lotus' Chapman Production Centre in Hethel.
Keyword: AMG-Powered Lotus Emira Arrives With $99,900 Price Tag