Lotus unleashes emira 420 sport: the fastest four-cylinder production car
Lotus has thrown down the gauntlet to the supercar establishment with the unveiling of the Emira 420 Sport, a track-focused variant that elevates the already impressive Emira to a whole new level of performance. This isn't just a trim level; it's a statement – a defiant roar from a brand that refuses to abandon the visceral thrill of internal combustion while the world rushes towards electric power.
A lineage of pure driving purity
The 420 Sport isn't merely the latest iteration of the Emira; it’s a direct descendant of a legendary lineage. Lotus reserves the “Sport” moniker for its purest, lightest road cars—models like the iconic Esprit Sport 300 and the Elise Sport 220. This latest addition proudly joins that esteemed family, representing the quintessential Lotus ethos of driving dynamics and lightweight engineering.
What sets the 420 Sport apart is its relentless pursuit of performance. It sits atop the Emira range, meticulously engineered to deliver superior agility, sharper responses, and an unparalleled connection between driver and machine. It's a car designed to be savored on exhilarating roads and to excel on the circuit.
Mercedes-amg power, lotus precision
At the heart of this beast lies a familiar yet potent engine: the Mercedes-AMG M139, a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. While known across various models from the three-pointed star, here it unleashes a formidable 420 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque – a significant 16 horsepower bump over the Emira Turbo SE and a substantial 56 horsepower increase over the standard Emira Turbo. This power is channeled to the rear wheels via an expertly calibrated eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, ensuring lightning-fast shifts and seamless acceleration.
The numbers speak for themselves. The Emira 420 Sport rockets from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) in a blistering 3.9 seconds, reaches 124 mph (200 km/h) in just 12.47 seconds, and blasts through the quarter-mile in 11.91 seconds, achieving a top speed of 186 mph (300 km/h). Those are figures typically associated with much more expensive machinery.
But it's not just about straight-line speed. Lotus has meticulously tuned every component of the powertrain for immediate response, linear power delivery, and precise control. The result is a car that's as rewarding on a twisty backroad as it is effective on the track.
The lightweight handling pack: sharpening the edge
For those seeking an even more focused driving experience, the optional Lotus Lightweight Handling Pack further refines the Emira’s already impressive capabilities. This package incorporates Multimatic two-way adjustable dampers, a titanium exhaust system, a rear carbon fiber lid with ventilation louvers, and a lithium-ion battery. The combined effect is a 25 kg (55 lbs) reduction in weight and an additional 25 kg (55 lbs) of downforce – a recipe for enhanced grip, precision, and agility.
The two-way adjustable dampers, in particular, are a standout feature. Utilizing spool valve technology, they independently calibrate compression and rebound damping, granting Lotus engineers unparalleled control over the suspension’s behavior. This advanced architecture delivers exceptionally consistent damping performance, maintaining precise control even under high-frequency loads—something traditional systems struggle with. The result is a suspension setup that balances adjustable body control with ride comfort – a hallmark of the Lotus experience.
Price and availability
The Lotus Emira 420 Sport commands a premium, priced above the Emira Turbo, Turbo SE, and V6 SE. It’s currently available in Spain, with a starting price of €132,500. First deliveries are slated to begin in August. Adding to the appeal, the rest of the Emira range in 2024 will also offer a new removable glass roof option, expanding customization possibilities for buyers.
For those seeking to truly unlock the Emira 420 Sport’s potential on track, the Lotus Track Pro app provides lap timing, predictive times, and synchronized video and telemetry analysis—a digital co-driver to help hone your skills. This isn't just a car; it’s an invitation to experience driving in its purest, most exhilarating form.