The Lotus mid-engined looks amazing zipping down Corkscrew.
The official US debut of the 2022 Lotus Emira was made at the WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca. Jenson Button, Formula 1 World Champion, did a lap with the Emira. Button and Emira were both in Monterey for the Monterey Car Week. The new Lotus sports car will be on display and will be revealed at The Quail: A Motorsports Gathering.
Lotus claims that the Emira will feel smoother and more comfortable in use than the Evora GT it replaces. But, this daily usability won’t be at the cost of driving enjoyment. Lotus placed Button behind an Emira prototype, and then put him on the Laguna Seca asphalt. This allowed him to push the car a little through the track’s steep elevation changes and chicanes. Button’s smile is evident even on the terrifying Corkscrew. This off-camber drop was so difficult that the Emira almost slid down it. This is a positive sign for the new Lotus.
The Evora is not available with the Emira. It will come with three transmissions and two engines. The Toyota supercharged carryover 3.5-liter V6 will be available with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic transmission. It delivers approximately 400 horsepower (298 kilowatts). A turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 engine from AMG will be available. It produces approximately 360 horsepower (268 kW) and is mated to a seven speed dual-clutch transmission. The curb weight will be kept to around 3,000 pounds by using lightweight body panels and a bonded aluminum chassis.
The Emira is also stunning to see in person. The Emira’s headlights and hood scuttles are clearly inspired by the all-electric Hypercar. The Emira is slightly wider and shorter than its predecessor, but it looks solid and secure in corners. This allows for greater maneuverability and responsiveness. The beautiful curves of the mid-engined sports car look great with its squat proportions.
The interior of the new Emira is also more comfortable than its predecessor. It features a digital instrument cluster and exposed shift linkage for manual-transmission cars. The new Emira even has a center armrest, something that is rare in modern Lotus.
The 2022 Emira will be available for purchase in the first quarter of next year. However, those who are able to attend Monterey Car Week may have the opportunity to take a peek at it right now. We have some cool video for you.