Having debuted for the 2024 model year, the Emira is set to be the last internal-combustion car Lotus ever builds, and the brand is working to keep the ICE age engaging while it lasts. Previously, the model line consisted of the self-explanatory Emira V6 and lower-priced Emira Turbo SE (powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder sourced from Mercedes-AMG). For 2026, these elements are being combined to create two new additions to the family, the V6 SE and the just-plain Turbo.
Related: 2024 Lotus Emira Review: Why Haven’t You Ordered Yours Yet?
Bottom Up
The new entry-level Turbo forfeits the SE’s upgraded suspension, and the AMG four-cylinder’s output is dialed down from the SE’s 400 horsepower to 360 hp. An eight-speed dual-clutch automatic remains the only transmission choice.
The Emira V6 SE’s output does not increase over the standard V6’s 400 hp, but it does benefit from new suspension damper calibrations and a tweaked wheel alignment for sharper handling and increased ride comfort — neither of which was lacking. The standard six-speed manual transmission also gets revised mounting for greater shifter precision. The V6 SE includes red brake calipers and Lotus’s Extended Black Pack, which adds black exhaust tips, exterior badging and lower-body aero elements.
Full-Line Improvements
Lotus also cooked up some enhancements for the whole Emira family, including a refined cooling system that lets the engine run hotter and air conditioning that should keep the interior cooler in hot weather. The dual-clutch transmission is recalibrated for faster and smoother shifts, as well.
Now that there are SE variants with both engines, there are twice as many potential buyers for the new Racing Line design package, which is available only on the Emira SE. It includes a lower-body pinstripe in yellow, red or silver with matching brake calipers, side mirror housings and accent stitching in the interior, gloss-black wheels, and black and silver Lotus badges.
Release Date and Pricing
The 2026 Lotus Emira goes on sale in September. Pricing will be announced closer to launch.
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