The 2024 Lotus Emira First Edition immediately telegraphs its intentions with the phrase “For the Drivers” etched onto its key fob. While such pronouncements can often be marketing hyperbole, in the case of the Emira, it rings true. After spending time behind the wheel, it becomes clear that Lotus has prioritized the driving experience in this latest sports car.
Beneath the Emira First Edition’s sculpted hood lies a departure from Lotus’s traditional Toyota-sourced V6 engines. Instead, this model features a potent Mercedes-AMG turbocharged four-cylinder, producing a robust 360 horsepower. This AMG powerplant is paired with a responsive 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. While a Toyota V6 remains an option for Emira buyers, offering a choice of a 6-speed manual or automatic, the four-cylinder variant presents a compelling alternative.
The four-cylinder Emira is positioned as the entry-level option, coming in at a slightly more accessible price point than the V6. It also boasts a minor weight advantage, being approximately 30 pounds lighter. Interestingly, the I4 engine delivers a touch more torque, generating 317 lb-ft, compared to the V6.
Striking Design, Inside and Out
Lotus has traditionally favored understated elegance in their designs. However, the Emira takes a bolder approach, drawing visual inspiration from the marque’s flagship Evija hypercar. Its dimensions position it as slightly larger than the Alfa Romeo 4C, yet more compact than a Chevrolet Corvette. Notably, the Emira’s overall size and specifications closely align with the Porsche 718 Cayman, a key competitor in the sports car segment.
While aesthetic preferences are subjective, the Emira undeniably possesses a distinct and “special” presence, particularly when contrasted with the more ubiquitous Cayman, especially in markets like California. The wheel and tire combination further enhances its visual appeal, featuring 245/35/R20 tires at the front and substantial 295/30/R20s at the rear. The test vehicle was equipped with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, indicative of its performance-oriented nature.
Stepping inside the Emira reveals a cabin that blends Lotus’s sporting heritage with a touch of modern luxury. Keen observers will notice shared components with Volvo, a result of both brands being under the Geely automotive group umbrella. This parts sharing is seamlessly integrated, elevating the Emira’s interior to a new level of refinement for Lotus. The materials are tactile and feel premium, marking a significant step forward in interior quality for the brand.
The Emira’s infotainment and instrumentation are managed through a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch TFT driver display. These systems are functional and responsive, incorporating standard features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Audiophiles will appreciate the optional 10-channel, 560-watt premium audio system developed in collaboration with KEF Audio.
The Emira’s seating represents a significant improvement in comfort compared to previous Lotus models. The 12-way adjustable, heated seats are upholstered in Napa leather and offer a good balance of support and comfort, accommodating larger occupants effectively. While perhaps not as plush as a Corvette’s seats or as aggressively bolstered as a 718 Cayman’s, they strike a comfortable middle ground. Even taller drivers around 6’1″ will find ample headroom and legroom in the Emira.
Practicality and Minor Quirks
Despite its focus on driving pleasure, the Emira does present some compromises in practicality. Storage space is limited, with the primary cargo area located behind the engine. This placement means items stored in the 5.3-cubic-feet compartment are exposed to engine heat. A parcel shelf behind the seats offers some space for smaller items, and a hidden shelf beneath the center console provides additional storage.
The placement of the cellphone storage, situated just below the climate controls, is somewhat awkward. Accessing a phone in this location can be challenging, particularly when parked. A more convenient solution is the side net located next to the lower storage area, which also provides access to the sole USB-C connection.
While the four-cylinder AMG engine is a technological marvel, some enthusiasts may prefer the visual drama of an exposed engine bay. Although the engine is visible under a glass panel, it is partially concealed by a plastic shroud, unlike the more visually appealing V6 option. Furthermore, the aural character of the turbocharged four-cylinder, while exciting with its blow-off valve and burbling exhaust, can become somewhat intrusive during highway driving or in stop-and-go traffic.
The Emira’s gear selection, utilizing buttons for Park and double taps for Drive and Reverse, can occasionally be less intuitive than traditional lever-based systems. The system can sometimes default to neutral, requiring drivers to visually confirm gear selection on the screen, especially when maneuvering in tight spaces.
Driving Dynamics – A True Lotus Experience
Where the Emira truly shines is in its driving dynamics. The double-wishbone suspension, featuring Eibach springs and Bilstein dampers, delivers a firm yet surprisingly compliant ride. The powerful brakes, equipped with 4-piston AP-Racing calipers, offer exceptional stopping power and resist fade even under demanding use. The electro-hydraulic steering system is a standout feature, providing exceptional feedback and precision, reminiscent of classic driver-focused sports cars. It’s a system that legendary drivers like Jim Clark and Graham Hill would likely appreciate for its purity and responsiveness.
In conclusion, the Lotus Emira First Edition successfully captures the essence of a driver’s car, blending engaging performance with a more refined and comfortable experience than previous Lotus models. Priced around $99,900, the Emira occupies an appealing space in the market, bridging the gap between mainstream sports cars and more exclusive exotics. It delivers a driving experience that genuinely lives up to the “For the Drivers” inscription, making it a compelling option for enthusiasts seeking a focused and rewarding sports car.
