The most powerful and lightest Emira yet arrives shortly.
Hardcore variant reveal planned for coming weeks.
Emira secured in lineup for years forward.

Lotus unveiled its 'Focus 2030' strategy today, spotlighting a new V8 supercar dubbed 'Type 135' for 2028, yet an enhanced sports car steals the immediate show. The Geely-backed brand prepares to launch a refined Emira soon. Details on specs are scarce, but it promises to be the strongest and lightest iteration so far.

Since its 2022 debut, the Emira pairs a turbocharged 2.0-liter AMG-sourced inline-four with a supercharged 3.5-liter Toyota V6. Lotus stays mum on the powerplant, fueling guesses that Norfolk engineers tuned an existing unit. Or perhaps they opted for something fresh?

During last year's earnings call, CEO Qingfeng Feng noted exploring V8 viability. Time will tell if approval came through. A green light could mean the Emira adopts a version of the V8 earmarked for Lotus's debut supercar. Curiously, this shift might stem from the V6's struggles meeting Euro 7 standards.

Potential AMG V8 Emira?

Scratch-building a big engine seems improbable; sourcing from partners fits better. Mercedes-AMG's fresh V8 could slot in neatly. The CEO's public nod implies the bay, built for four- and six-cylinders, accommodates it.

No plug-in hybrid likely, as weight loss is key - batteries would counter that. Note the V6 model's 1,458 kilograms (3,214 pounds) in Europe; the four-cylinder tips lighter.

Share your thoughts!

Emira's Future Locked In

A V8 adds heft, but Lotus experts can trim elsewhere. Beyond specs, the British roadster's path looks solid - 'Emira continuity confirmed.' Once eyed as the last gas-powered offering before a 2028 all-EV shift, plans evolved.

Full electrification scrapped; the Emira endures long-term. Even the Eletre SUV, meant pure EV, gains a Chinese PHEV with 2.0-liter four-cylinder as 'Lotus For Me.' The 939-hp version hits Europe in late 2026, name TBD.

Our Verdict: Few pure sports cars linger, so Lotus protecting the Emira delights. Extra power minus weight amps appeal for this mid-engine coupe. A straight V8 slots it as a budget foe to McLaren and Ferrari exotics.

Existing engine or not, excitement builds for Lotus elevating the Emira after four years.