2026 Lotus Emira Costs More For Less Power originally appeared on Autoblog.
Updates For 2026 Don't Come Free
Last month, Lotus announced that it was improving the Emira sports car for 2026, finally introducing the 400-horsepower Turbo SE trim after it was first announced in 2024. This will sit alongside the V6 SE and above the Turbo, which replaces the non-SE V6 as the cheapest Emira you can buy. After a year of V6-only options for 2025, U.S. buyers regain access to the four-pot, but that doesn't mean it's any cheaper. In fact, quite the opposite. The 360-hp Emira Turbo entry-level model costs $106,900 for the new model year, while the previous base model, the 2025 V6 in non-SE guise, was only $102,250.
Emira SE Variants
The Emira Turbo SE features a higher-output version of Mercedes-AMG's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, while the Emira V6 SE (now the only way to get more than four cylinders in the Emira) produces the same 400 ponies from a supercharged 3.5-liter V6 borrowed from Toyota. Whichever 400-horse engine you choose, the SE trims offer black 20-inch forged alloy wheels matched by gloss black rocker panels and bumper inserts. They're not identical, however.
Lotus says the suspension and wheel alignment of the V6 SE have been adjusted for improved handling and comfort, while the transmission has been enhanced with a new compression mount that is said to deliver more precise gear changes. This model costs at least $112,900, but as the only way to get an Emira with a manual transmission, it's arguably worth the extra six grand. Speaking of transmissions, the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in the Turbo cars has been revised to deliver quicker shifts, and Lotus has revised the transmission cooling system for more consistent performance. Engine cooling has also been enhanced, and a revised air conditioning system does the same for the cabin.
New Colors And Other Tweaks
The biggest visual changes are to the exterior of the sports car, where buyers can now choose from Eos Green and Purple Haze Metallic. According to a comment on EmiraForum.com, these new colors will each cost $2,950, while Tangerine Orange costs a whopping $7,800. Also on offer (for the V6 model only) is a Racing Line cosmetic package, reportedly starting at $115,900, that provides contrasting colors for the mirror caps, brake calipers, and lower pinstripes (red, yellow, or silver are the options for these three areas), as well as unique badges, gloss black wheels, and interior stitching that matches the chosen exterior accents' color.
2026 Lotus Emira Costs More For Less Power first appeared on Autoblog on Aug 4, 2025
This story was originally reported by Autoblog on Aug 4, 2025, where it first appeared.
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