- Lotus expands the Emira range for 2026 with a base model and sharper V6 SE variant.
- De-tuned Turbo packs 360 hp from a 2.0-liter engine and reaches 62 mph in 4.4 seconds.
- The V6 SE gains retuned suspension, better handling, and red calipers on 20-inch wheels.
The Lotus Emira turns four years old next month, so the company is keeping things fresh by announcing a handful of updates for 2026. This includes an all-new Emira V6 SE as well as more traditional model year updates.
Starting with the Emira V6 SE, it follows in the footsteps of the Turbo SE but features a 3.5-liter V6 engine developing 400 hp (298 kW / 406 PS). It can be connected to a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. This enables the coupe to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.3 seconds.
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While the powertrain carries over from the standard V6, the SE is notable for having a retuned suspension with optimized dampers as well as Tour and Sport settings. There are also subtle wheel alignment adjustments to “provide sharper handling and increased ride comfort.”
The sports car comes standard with a Zinc Grey exterior that features black accents and 20-inch forged alloy wheels that are backed up by red brake calipers. Inside, there’s Alcantara upholstery and sport pedals. The Emira is also highly customizable as there are 15 paint options, four brake caliper finishes, eight wheel designs, and seven interior themes.
Pricing starts at £96,500 in the United Kingdom and €117,500 in Germany. However, there’s no word on US availability as of yet.
Entry-Level Turbo Debuts With 360 HP
Buyers with smaller budgets can check out the new Emira Turbo, which serves as an entry-level model. It starts at £79,500 or €97,500 in Germany.
It’s similar to the Turbo SE as it has a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine sourced from Mercedes-AMG. However, it’s been detuned to produce 360 hp (268 kW / 365 PS). The engine is connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, which enables the model to accelerate from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 4.4 seconds, before hitting a top speed of 171 mph (275 km/h).
Despite its entry-level status, the Emira Turbo comes nicely equipped with 12-way power front seats, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. They’re joined by an assortment of driver assistance systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking, Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Warning, and Fatigue Detection.
Model Year Updates Improve Performance And Comfort
Besides the new trims, the 2026 Emira features an assortment of changes that increase performance as well as comfort. One of the more notable updates is an optimized cooling system with rerouted lines that provide better flow to the transmission oil cooler and radiator. Lotus says this improves cooling, while also reducing weight.
The car isn’t the only thing running cooler as the air conditioner has been recalibrated to “provide a more stable interior climate at high temperatures.” On the flip side, the opening temperature of the engine thermostat has been increased from 149° F (65° C) to 167° F (75° C) to improve heating.
Furthermore, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission has been recalibrated for improved performance. Lotus said the changes allow for “faster shift times, improved shift quality, and smoother interaction between transmission and driver.”
Rounding out the highlights are two new colors known as EOS Green and Purple Haze metallic. The SE variants can also be equipped with a Racing Line design option that adds colorful pinstripes and mirror caps as well as high-gloss black wheels, special badging, and interior upgrades.
