The Lotus Emira 420 Sport arrives as the most powerful four‑cylinder model in the Emira lineup, boasting 416 bhp and a top speed of 186 mph.
Powertrain and Performance Gains
Lotus uses Mercedes‑AMG’s M139 2.0‑litre turbocharged inline‑four in all three Emira variants, but the 420 Sport pushes output to 416 bhp and torque to 369 lb‑ft, a 15 lb‑ft increase over the Turbo SE. It accelerates to 62 mph in 3.9 seconds, making it the quickest Emira to date. Lotus claims the car now holds the title of fastest four‑cylinder vehicle worldwide.
The engine pairs with an eight‑speed dual‑clutch transmission that has been retuned. In everyday driving, the gearbox manages shifts smoothly, while the larger, longer‑travel shift paddles give a more engaging feel for spirited use.
Track‑Focused Enhancements
Beyond the power bump, the 420 Sport adds an extended front splitter, a rear lip spoiler, slatted rear glass, and larger air intakes that increase radiator flow by up to 15 percent. The car sits 5 mm lower than the standard Emira, and a new Lightweight Handling Pack trims weight to 1,430 kg, 16 kg lighter than the base Turbo.
The pack includes a titanium exhaust, a lighter lithium‑ion battery, carbon‑fiber components, Michelin PS Cup 2 tyres, and Multimatic spool‑valve dampers adjustable through 11 clicks. Optional 20‑inch forged wheels further reduce unsprung mass. They also contribute to the overall sports car feel.
Inside, enlarged carbon‑fiber shift paddles replace the previous metal ones, and an ’80s‑style detachable glass roof panel offers a near‑targa experience for an extra £5,000. The roof stows behind the seats, appealing to U.S. buyers who favor a convertible feel.
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While the chassis is notably stiff—more so than the Turbo SE—the Multimatic dampers handle rough roads without losing composure.
Despite its track‑oriented setup, the Emira retains a premium cabin. The detachable roof panel brightens the interior, and the overall fit and finish surpass previous Lotus models.
In everyday use, the stiff suspension may become tiring on uneven roads, and the flat, industrial tone of the M139 engine lacks the character of the optional V6.
Nonetheless, the car’s torque delivery and near‑instantaneous turbo response provide ample excitement for most scenarios.
Overall, the Lotus Emira 420 Sport stands as the most track‑ready Emira yet, delivering a blend of raw performance and lightweight engineering that will appeal to enthusiasts willing to accept a firmer ride for the sake of lap‑time gains.
