Lotus Emira

The 2025 Lotus Emira offers a choice of two distinct powertrains, both designed for exhilarating performance: 2.0-litre AMG-sourced Four-Cylinder Turbo: This engine, derived from Mercedes-AMG, produces approximately 360 bhp and 430 Nm of torque. It is paired exclusively with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This variant offers sharp, responsive performance with modern efficiency. 3.5-litre Supercharged V6: This Toyota-sourced V6 engine, a familiar unit from previous Lotus models, produces approximately 400 bhp and 430 Nm of torque. It is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic.

Both engines deliver strong acceleration, with the V6 manual capable of reaching 0-100 km/h in approximately 4.3 seconds, and the AMG 2.0L in around 4.4 seconds. The supercharged V6 offers a linear power delivery and a unique, visceral sound, while the AMG turbo provides sharp, instant response. In real-world driving, both powertrains deliver thrilling performance, making highway overtakes instantaneous and spirited driving immensely rewarding. Fuel economy, while not the primary focus, will be around 8-10 kmpl in mixed driving conditions, varying with driving style. The rear-wheel-drive layout ensures a pure sports car feel.

Ride and Handling

The 2025 Lotus Emira is engineered to deliver an exceptional ride and handling experience, staying true to Lotus's legendary reputation for dynamic prowess. It features a sophisticated suspension setup, designed to provide precise control and engaging feedback. While the ride is inherently firm, typical for a sports car, it is surprisingly compliant for daily use, managing to absorb most road imperfections without being overly harsh, though very broken Indian roads will still be felt.

Handling is razor-sharp and incredibly agile, with direct and communicative steering that provides unparalleled feedback to the driver. The lightweight construction and optimized weight distribution contribute to its nimble feel and exceptional cornering ability. Body roll is minimal, even during aggressive maneuvers, instilling immense confidence in the driver. Panic braking performance is outstanding, with powerful brakes providing immense stopping power and consistent pedal feel. The overall ride and handling balance is a masterclass in sports car dynamics, offering an exhilarating and immersive driving experience that connects the driver directly to the road.

The interior of the 2025 Lotus Emira marks a significant step up in terms of quality, technology, and ergonomics for Lotus. The cabin is strictly driver-focused, yet offers a more premium and comfortable environment than previous Lotus models. It features high-quality materials such as Nappa leather, Alcantara, and metallic accents, creating a sporty yet refined ambiance. The dashboard incorporates a digital instrument cluster and a central touchscreen infotainment system.

Seating is for two occupants in a traditional sports car layout, with supportive bucket seats that hold the occupants firmly during spirited driving. Rear seating is not applicable. Cargo space is limited, typical for a mid-engine sports car; there's a small boot behind the engine (approximately 208 litres) and a storage area behind the seats (approximately 12 litres), sufficient for a couple of soft bags or a small carry-on. Features like dual-zone automatic climate control and ambient lighting contribute to the cabin experience. The fit and finish are a considerable improvement for Lotus, aiming for a more premium feel while retaining the lightweight philosophy.

Infotainment

The infotainment system in the 2025 Lotus Emira is a modern setup, a significant upgrade for the brand. It features a 10.25-inch central touchscreen display for primary functions, which is intuitive and responsive. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone integration for navigation, media, and communication.

A separate 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster provides customizable driving information, including performance metrics. The system includes integrated navigation and supports voice control for hands-free operation. Lotus Connect services are expected to offer connected car features, though specific details for India will be confirmed closer to launch. The focus is on providing essential smart features and ease of use for the driver without distracting from the primary driving experience. A premium KEF audio system is available, delivering high-fidelity sound.

The exterior design of the 2025 Lotus Emira is a masterpiece of modern sports car aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the hypercar Evija. The front fascia features sharp, aggressive lines, prominent air intakes, and sleek LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights, giving it an unmistakable, low-slung presence. The sculpted bonnet and pronounced wheel arches contribute to its muscular stance.

The side profile is characterized by its dramatic mid-engine proportions, with large air scoops behind the doors feeding the engine. The flowing lines and compact dimensions emphasize its agility. Large, lightweight alloy wheels (expected to be 20-inch, with various finishes) perfectly fill the wheel wells, enhancing its dynamic appeal. The rear design is equally striking, with slim, horizontally oriented LED taillights, a prominent diffuser, and twin exhaust outlets. Dimensions are approximately 4,412 mm in length, 1,895 mm in width, and 1,225 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,575 mm. Color options are expected to include a range of vibrant and classic sports car hues.

Safety in the 2025 Lotus Emira focuses on providing fundamental protection and driver assistance for a high-performance sports car. While dedicated crash test ratings like BNCAP or Euro NCAP are not typically conducted for such low-volume, specialized vehicles, Lotus engineers the Emira with a strong, lightweight bonded aluminum chassis designed to provide excellent structural rigidity and occupant protection.

The 2025 Emira will come equipped with essential passive and active safety features. Standard passive safety is expected to include multiple airbags (likely 4 or more), ABS with EBD, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The vehicle's low center of gravity and inherent agility contribute to its active safety, allowing the driver to avoid hazards effectively. Active safety features, while not a full suite of advanced ADAS found in luxury sedans, are expected to include adaptive cruise control, anti-collision system, lane departure warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The overall safety offering prioritizes driver control and fundamental protection.

The 2025 Lotus Emira competes in the niche segment of pure driver-focused sports cars in India, facing rivals that offer varying blends of performance and luxury. Its primary competitors include the Porsche 718 Cayman and the Alpine A110 (if available in India).

The Porsche 718 Cayman is renowned for its precision engineering, balanced chassis, and engaging driving dynamics, often considered the benchmark in the segment. The Emira differentiates itself with its more exotic, Evija-inspired design, the option of a supercharged V6 engine with a manual gearbox for a more analogue feel, and a unique British sports car heritage. The Alpine A110 offers an ultra-lightweight, nimble experience with a focus on agility and a distinctive French design. The Emira counters with more power, a more luxurious interior, and a broader appeal in terms of usability.

For the Indian buyer who prioritizes a pure, unadulterated driving experience, stunning exotic looks, and a connection to the road that few modern cars can offer, the 2025 Lotus Emira represents the overall best performer. While the Cayman offers clinical precision, the Emira's blend of emotional design, powerful engines, and engaging dynamics makes it a compelling value proposition for the true driving enthusiast.

The 2025 Lotus Emira is a significant and highly desirable sports car for the Indian market. It successfully blends Lotus's legendary focus on driving dynamics with a stunning new design and a more refined, technologically advanced interior. The choice of potent engines, especially the supercharged V6 with a manual gearbox, offers an unparalleled analogue driving experience.

For buyers in India seeking a pure driver-focused sports car that offers exhilarating performance, breathtaking design, and a direct connection to the road, the 2025 Lotus Emira is undoubtedly worth the investment. Its appeal lies in its ability to deliver an uncompromised sports car experience while offering a level of usability not seen in previous Lotus models. The V6 manual variant would likely be the best pick for enthusiasts seeking the most visceral and engaging driving experience.