Lotus Emira Turbo SE Review
The 2026 Lotus Emira Turbo SE is turning heads with its blend of lightweight British engineering and AMG-sourced turbocharged power. Reviewers note that while it feels almost like a Mercedes-AMG experiment, the Emira retains distinctly Lotus character through sharp steering, a communicative chassis, and focus on driver engagement over brute force. It's positioned as a compelling option for those seeking a modern sports car with classic handling feel.
- The Emira Turbo SE is powered by a Mercedes-AMG M139 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine tuned to produce 400 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. - This model sits between the entry-level 365-horsepower Emira Turbo and the flagship 400-horsepower supercharged V6 SE, which offers the option of a manual gearbox. - The Turbo SE can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 4.0 seconds and has a top speed of 181 mph, making it the world's fastest four-cylinder production car. - The Emira is the final Lotus model to be powered solely by an internal combustion engine, replacing the brand's previous Elise, Exige, and Evora models. - By December 2024, Lotus had produced its 10,000th Emira, making it the fastest-produced model in the company's history—a milestone that took the iconic Esprit 28 years to reach. - Although the Emira is the last gasoline-only model, Lotus has shifted its future strategy from an all-electric plan to developing "Hyper Hybrid" technology, with a plug-in hybrid Emira reportedly planned for 2027.
