Do You Think This Is The Last Of Its Kind? A First Drive Review Of The Lotus Emira

Given Lotus's shift to EVs and hybrids, the Emira may be the company's final vehicle. Does it, however, live up to the tradition?

Highlights?

• The last of the brand's appropriate ICE cars is the Lotus Emira.
• The mid-engined sports vehicle has a 4-cylinder engine from AMG.
• In India, the Lotus Emira costs Rs. 3.22 crore.

Lotus is renowned for its rich history in motorsport, particularly Formula One, and for using the lessons learned to create legendary sports vehicles. Sports vehicles with a reputation for innovation and design include the Elise, Exige, and Evora. The Lotus Emira, a small, mid-engine sports vehicle that debuted in 2022, is carrying on that tradition today. However, the automobile has now arrived in India, and I just had the opportunity to spend some time with it, which is why you are reading this right now.

Currently, the Emira is unique not only because it is Lotus's first mid-engined sports vehicle in India, but also because it may be the last of its kind. As you can see, Lotus, like many other manufacturers, has embraced the notion of an electrified future and will be transitioning to hybrid and electric vehicles under the direction of China's Geely Auto. Yes, that is depressing, but that future is still a ways off, so let's speak about the automobile that might rank among the top exotics available in India right now.

Dynamics & Drive?

Now, you have to get behind the wheel of the Emira in order to really enjoy and appreciate it. You are in the center of all the activity in the automobile! The car's chassis is so well-designed that it reacts instantly to even the smallest steering movements, and the engine for the backseat passenger sings you a lovely symphony. Regarding the steering, it provides you with so much information that you are aware of every situation the vehicle is going through.

Indeed, the Emira is a superb handling device that is accurate, direct, and crisp. It seems easy to change lanes at triple-digit speeds, and I promise that you will feel like an expert even if you aren't. It's rooted, steady, and you feel like you're one with the vehicle, which is undoubtedly a pleasant sensation.

You could be thinking that since you've talked so much about handling, you have to give up comfort throughout the trip. Not really, though. Yes, it is rather stiff, but it's not unpleasant because it's a sports vehicle. Generally speaking, the ride is smooth and well-balanced, but I must inform you that this vehicle only has passive suspension; you must select between a sports pack and a touring pack at the time of rental.

Performance & Powertrain?

A 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine from AMG is parked behind me. The same engine that is said to as the most powerful inline-4-cylinder series production engine in the world. The motor has been tweaked for the Emira, though, and instead of 400 horsepower, you get a decent 360 horsepower. The torque output has also been reduced from 500 Nm to 430 Nm. Is it a negative thing, though?

The Emira definitely doesn't give you that impression when you're driving. It feels strong, eager, and prepared to strike. Yes, there is a significant turbo lag in the low rpm, and it doesn't jump off the line right away. However, the turbo starts up as soon as you surpass 2000 rpm, and the engine seems much more alive and sensitive to your throttle inputs.

The engine can go well above 7000 rpm and remain there for as long as you like. It has a lot of oomph. It like being pushed hard, so if you want to get the most out of the Emira, you'll need to do that. The 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which effectively transfers power to the back wheels, is what unifies everything. It's smooth and sophisticated, albeit the transitions might have been a little faster. Additionally, there are paddle shifters available if you would prefer to hold the controls in your hands.

Styling & Design?

The Emira maintains its heritage while visually reminding you of its forebears. Sports cars are all over that low-slung design with sharp lines and curved haunches. Although it has some of the distinctive Lotus elements, it also has an Italian flair. Particularly when viewed from the rear three-quarters perspective, with the elevated tail portion and the sloping glass back. Doesn't it do something that originated in Maranello? And I mean it when I say that.

The 20-inch ultra-lightweight diamond-turned wheels enhance the vehicle's road presence, and the fully automated headlights really look good. However, those lovely, circular twin exhausts are what really catch my attention. Although there is a tiny trunk area that may fit a few overnight guests, there isn't any frunk here, so that's that.

Features & Cabin?

Regarding the inside, the Emira has every feature you might want in a sports vehicle with two seats. Paddle shifters, a slot flat-bottom steering wheel with buttons for several in-car features, and two sporty bucket seats. Since it's a contemporary vehicle, it does include a touchscreen—a good one at that—a digital instrument cluster that can display G-Force, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a reversing camera.

Rain-sensing wipers, auto-dimming mirrors, and power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support are all extra conveniences. But even though Lotus has a heating feature—which is almost useless in India—you do not get cooled seats, which is a major letdown in a place like India. Lotus also gives you a number of pack alternatives so you may alter the cabin's appearance and feel to suit your preferences.

Cost & Conclusion?

The elephant in the room has to be addressed. Just the basic price of the Lotus Emira is Rs. 3.22 crore (ex-showroom India). The on-road pricing will be far higher than Rs. 4 crore when all those extra creature conveniences are included. However, is that amount appropriate for a four-cylinder sports car?

The Lotus Emira is the epitome of a sports vehicle; in fact, I'll go so far as to refer to it as a little supercar. The pricing, however, definitely places it in that range. And that's the main lesson to be learned here. You see, the Emira in India is about two or three times more expensive than the international markets. Additionally, it is priced more like a 911 in India, even though it would compete with something like a Porsche Cayman on a worldwide scale. But there's one thing you must keep in mind.