Lotus Introduces the Emira Turbo SE in the UK: 400 bhp Performance Model

Lotus has launched the Emira Turbo SE in the UK, featuring a 400 bhp turbocharged engine and a 4.0-second 0-62 mph time. Discover details on specs, design, and availability.

Lotus has officially expanded its Emira lineup with the introduction of the Emira Turbo SE, which is now available in the UK market. This marks a significant milestone for the British automaker, as it brings its most powerful four-cylinder sports car to its home audience. Priced at £89,500, the Turbo SE offers a compelling mix of performance, design, and engineering, reinforcing Lotus's commitment to high-performance petrol-powered vehicles before the brand transitions fully to electrification.

The Emira Turbo SE leads the newly revised lineup, standing out as the fastest and most powerful Emira ever produced. Under the hood, it houses a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, delivering an impressive 400 bhp—a 40 bhp increase over the standard Emira Turbo. Thanks to its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, the car accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.0 seconds, with a top speed of 180 mph (290 km/h).

To enhance its on-road performance, the Turbo SE comes equipped with the Lotus Drivers Pack, which includes a sports-tuned suspension, upgraded brakes, and a Launch Control system that optimizes acceleration from a standstill. These refinements ensure that the Turbo SE delivers a dynamic and exhilarating driving experience, staying true to Lotus's racing heritage.

Lotus has ensured that the Emira Turbo SE is not just about performance but also about presence. The model features a Zinc Grey exterior, 20-inch V-Spoke Satin Grey wheels, and aggressive black detailing that highlight its bold character. Red brake calipers complete the high-performance aesthetic, making it a visually striking addition to the Emira lineup.

Inside, the Turbo SE boasts a premium Alcantara-trimmed cabin with black accents, reinforcing its track-inspired focus while maintaining everyday comfort. The combination of high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures a refined yet athletic driving environment.

Alongside the Turbo SE, Lotus is introducing two additional Emira variants to the UK market:

• Emira Turbo – Powered by the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, but with a reduced output of 360 bhp. This model offers a slightly more accessible entry point into the turbocharged Emira range.
• Emira V6 – Retaining the 3.5-liter supercharged V6 engine, this version continues to deliver 400 bhp and remains available with either a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission, and a limited-slip differential (for the manual version).

This strategic update replaces the previous First Edition models and offers buyers a refreshed selection with enhanced performance and new customization options.

The Turbo SE name carries historical significance for Lotus, as it references some of the brand’s most iconic models. The "Turbo" moniker is a nod to the legendary 1980 Esprit Turbo, while "SE" has been historically used by Lotus to designate enhanced-performance models, dating back to the Type 14 Elite.

With the Emira Turbo SE now available in the UK, Lotus enthusiasts finally have access to the highest-performing four-cylinder version of the Emira. Previously, the model had been confirmed for Asian, Middle Eastern, and African markets, but this launch represents a major step in making the Turbo SE more widely accessible.

While there is no official confirmation on whether this updated Emira lineup will be introduced to North America or other European markets, strong demand for the model suggests that Lotus may consider broader availability in the future.

The Emira Turbo SE is more than just another high-performance model—it is a significant moment in Lotus's evolution. With the company moving towards an all-electric future, this could be one of the last great combustion-engine sports cars from the brand. The Turbo SE represents a celebration of Lotus's petrol-powered heritage, offering a thrilling final chapter before the marque fully embraces electric performance.

For UK buyers, this launch provides an opportunity to own a piece of Lotus history—a fast, beautifully engineered, and distinctly British sports car that embodies everything the brand stands for.

Source: carsuk.net