Lotus has refreshed its only gas-powered coupe in the lineup: The Emira, making it faster on the road and around the track.
As you probably know, the model has lately been available with a 2,0-liter four-cylinder engine sourced from Mercedes-AMG. It was turbocharged to 406 PS (400 hp / 299 kW) and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque. The facelift version outputs 420 PS (414 hp / 309 kW) along with 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque, and generates an extra 25 kilos (55 pounds) of downforce at higher accelerations.
As a result, the new Emira now uses its eight-speed semi-auto transmission to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 seconds, down 0.1 s from the old version. It’s also marginally faster in terms of top speed, going all the way to 299 km/h (185 mph) as opposed to 291 km/h (180 mph).
Those who desire a bit extra may opt for a package called Lightweight Handling, which includes Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, a titanium alloy exhaust system, adjustable Multimatic shocks and a lightweight battery. Together, these upgrades make the car 25 kg (55 lbs) lighter.
Compared to the pre-facelift version (see video), the new Emira flaunts a more aggressive front splitter, larger air intakes in the bumper, aerodynamic side skirts and ventilated wheel arches. Prices in UK start from £106,000.