Discover the new Lotus Emira 420 Sport—boosted to 414 hp, 25 kg lighter, and sharper than ever. Learn specs, pricing, and availability now.
British sports‑car legend Lotus has rolled out a fresh version of its Emira line: the Emira 420 Sport. While the automotive world pivots toward electrification, Lotus stays true to its combustion‑engine heritage, delivering a machine that’s both more powerful and lighter than its predecessors.
Engine and performance gains
The heart of the 420 Sport remains the twin‑turbocharged 2.0‑litre unit from Mercedes‑AMG, but Lotus has retuned it for a noticeable jump in output. Peak power now hits 414 hp—up 54 hp from the standard Emira Turbo and 14 hp over the Turbo SE launched in August. Torque climbs to 500 Nm, 70 Nm more than the Turbo and 20 Nm above the Turbo SE.
Paired with an eight‑speed dual‑clutch gearbox, the powertrain shaves the 0‑100 km/h sprint to 3.9 seconds, a half‑second faster than the Turbo and a tenth of a second quicker than the Turbo SE. Top speed is capped at a respectable 300 km/h.
Lightweight handling pack
Lotus embraces its “lighter is faster” mantra through the optional Lightweight Handling Pack. Engineers stripped 25 kg from the chassis, bringing curb weight down to 1,430 kg. The same package adds another 25 kg of aerodynamic downforce, improving grip without compromising agility.
Aerodynamics and design tweaks
Beyond raw weight, the 420 Sport benefits from a suite of aero upgrades: a revised front splitter, rear diffuser, and a new rear wing that together boost stability at high speed. A standout feature is the optional removable glass roof—more of a sleek, retractable sunroof than a full‑convertible—allowing drivers to enjoy open‑air thrills while keeping structural rigidity.
The car sits 5 mm lower than the standard Emira thanks to a revised suspension setup, giving it a more planted stance. Inside, changes are subtle: a carbon‑fiber shift knob replaces the previous design, while the cabin retains its driver‑focused layout.
Pricing and availability
In the United States, the Emira 420 Sport starts at $122,900, roughly $16,000 above the Turbo SE’s $106,900 base price. Lotus plans to begin deliveries in August, targeting enthusiasts who crave traditional sports‑car dynamics in an era dominated by electric powertrains.
Final thoughts
The new Lotus Emira 420 Sport proves that there’s still a passionate market for high‑revving, lightweight gasoline sports cars. With a potent AMG engine, refined aerodynamics, and a focus on shedding unnecessary mass, it delivers an engaging driving experience that feels both modern and unmistakably Lotus.