Vehicle Overview
The 2021 Lotus Emira V6 First Edition is a sports coupé that represents the final internal-combustion model from Lotus, blending lightweight agility with modern performance. Launched in 2021, this 2-door coupé in First Edition trim features a Toyota-sourced supercharged V6 and Lotus’s signature chassis tuning.
| Segment | Sports coupé |
| Body Style | 2-door coupé |
| Model Year | 2021 |
| Trim | V6 First Edition |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive, 6-speed manual (optional 6-speed automatic) |
Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5 L supercharged V6 |
| Power | 406 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 317 lb-ft @ 3,500–5,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual (optional 6-spd auto) |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive (RWD) |
| 0–60 mph | 4.3 seconds |
| Top Speed | 181 mph |
| Curb Weight | 1,395 kg (3,075 lb)** |
| Wheelbase | 2,575 mm (101.4 in) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 4,412 × 1,880 × 1,225 mm |
| Boot Capacity | 220 L |
| Fuel Economy | 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (est.) |
Exterior Design
The Emira fuses sleek GT proportions with aggressive aero cues:
Sharp LED headlights and a low-slung nose for a purposeful stance
Sculpted side intakes and integrated rear diffuser to manage airflow
Flush door handles and carbon-fibre rear spoiler (optional)
19″ forged alloy wheels standard; 20″ forged options available
| Colour options | Solar Yellow, Storm Grey, Charcoal Grey |
Interior, Comfort & Materials
A driver-focused cockpit blending comfort and function:
| Seats | Sports buckets upholstered in Alcantara® & leather with contrast stitching |
| Trim | Aluminum and carbon-fibre accents on dash and door panels |
| Space | Generous headroom; snug lateral support for spirited driving |
| Storage | Glovebox, small centre console bin, and door pockets |
Features & Infotainment
Modern tech wrapped in minimalist style
| Infotainment | 10.25″ touchscreen with navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Audio | 6-speaker Alpine® system; optional 10-speaker upgrade |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth®, USB-C ports, Wi-Fi hotspot |
| Climate | Dual-zone automatic with rapid defrost |
| Convenience | Keyless start, rear-view camera, front/rear parking sensors |
Safety & Ratings
Comprehensive suite for modern sports driving
ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control
| Airbags | Front, side-thorax for driver and passenger |
| Chassis aids | Lotus Traction Control, Launch Control |
| Brakes | Brembo® 4-piston front calipers with ventilated discs |
Driving Performance
Pure Lotus agility and response
| Acceleration | 0–60 mph in 4.3 s with brisk V6 thrust |
| Handling | Lightweight bonded-aluminum chassis and double-wishbone suspension front and rear |
| Steering | Electric power-assist tuned for razor-sharp feedback |
| Drive Modes | Tour, Sport, Race adjust throttle, steering, and stability intervention |
Fuel Efficiency
Balanced sport and economy
| Real-World | Low-20s mpg city; high-20s mpg highway |
| Fuel Tank | 60 L (~15.8 gal) for ~350 mile combined range |
Practicality & Everyday Usability
Track capability with daily usability
| Boot space | 220 L, suitable for weekend bags |
| Ingress/Egress | Low seating height; wide-opening doors ease access |
| Visibility | Large glasshouse and optional 360° camera system |
Warranty & Maintenance
Lotus support for exclusive ownership
| Basic Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 mi |
| Powertrain Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 mi |
| Roadside Assist | 3 years included |
| Service Intervals | 12 months / 12,000 mi |
Price & Value for Money
Pure-bred sports coupé value
| US MSRP | From $92,500 (V6 First Edition) |
Key Options
Automatic transmission (+$6,000)
Carbon-fibre exterior pack (+$7,500)
Leather & Alcantara upgrade (+$3,500)
| Value Note | Offers superior handling and exclusivity vs. pricier European rivals |
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | 0–60 mph | Boot (L) | From Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lotus Emira V6 (2021) | 4.3 s | 220 | $92,500 |
| Porsche 718 Cayman S | 4.0 s | 150 | $70,000 |
| Alpine A110 Pure | 4.5 s | 110 | $67,000 |
| Audi TT RS | 3.6 s | 305 | $73,000 |
Pros & Cons
Pros
Exhilarating V6 with distinctive supercharger whine
Unmatched chassis balance and steering precision
Lightweight construction yields superior agility
Unique styling and limited production exclusivity
Cons
Minimal cargo space for longer trips
Firm ride in Race mode on rough roads
Service intervals require specialized Lotus care
Overall Rating
4.5 / 5 stars
We award it 4.5 / 5 for its pure Lotus driving experience, performance, and exclusivity in the sports coupé segment.
Final Verdict
The 2021 Lotus Emira V6 First Edition is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a driver-focused coupé with supercar-level agility, exotic styling, and a last hurrah for Lotus’s internal-combustion heritage.
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Pros & cons
- More engaging than a normal family car
- Strong road presence and driver appeal
- Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
- Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
- Performance versions can be expensive to insure and maintain
Final verdict
The Emira is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting strong driver appeal and performance-focused character. |
| Body style | Performance Car |
| Powertrain focus | Petrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.