Lotus is continuing its legacy of Colin Chapman’s pursuit for performance based on lightness in cars despite it being quite challenging due to the current state of affairs. The 2027 Lotus Emira 420 Sport represents the strongest version of the Lotus Emira ever produced. Not only is it faster, but also creates greater downforce and reduces the weight.
The power continues to come from the turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4, but this one has been uprated to deliver 420 PS output, giving this version its name. For American customers, the figures are rated at 414 hp and 369 lb-ft. The four-potter has more power than the Toyota-powered 3.5-liter supercharged V-6 version by 14 hp and 59 lb-ft. Furthermore, this Emira also gets an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and will have a top speed of 186 mph according to Lotus claims.
However, there are other changes made on top of the power improvements. The 420 Sport sits 5 millimeters lower than the Emira Turbo and also has higher-performance tires, resulting in a retuning of the suspension setup to maximize traction and handling. In terms of aerodynamics, there are enhancements that improve the cooling capacity of both the engine radiator and the brakes without adding extra weight. This results in a 0–60-mph time of 3.7 seconds, compared to 3.8 seconds of the Turbo SE.
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The 2027 Emira 420 Sport will be available with the option of the Lightweight Handling Package that reduces the overall weight by 55 pounds while increasing downforce by 55 pounds, making it 3,208 pounds overall. Other elements of the package include two-way adjustable Multimatic dampers, a titanium exhaust system, a lithium-ion battery (12V), Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, carbon-fiber components, and the Lotus Track Performance app.
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An exterior carbon fiber pack is also an option for customers that would like to have some carbon fiber components on their vehicle but do not require the full handling package. This pack will include front splitter, side sills, wheel-arch vents, side pods, rear spoiler, and diffuser surround that have been replaced with carbon-fiber components.
The Emira 420 Sport will be offered in 16 exterior colors, but the highlight color is Tangelo Orange, which reflects the company’s traditional use of orange on its race cars and road cars for decades.
Interior-wise, the Lotus Emira 420 Sport 2027 sticks with its existing driving-centric design but adds a few elements that are intended to improve comfort and create a bit of drama. These include 12-way adjustable seats, electro-hydraulic power steering system, and redesigned carbon-fiber paddle shifters that have enhanced haptics.
Another feature being introduced by Lotus Emira 420 Sport for 2027 is a removable tinted glass roof panel. It seems to be designed for speedily converting the coupe into an open-air car; the glass will be stored in a protective bag between the rear seats. Two interior appearance packs are included in this model.
One of these is the Carbon Fiber Pack which includes carbon inlays around the logo on the seats, at the center of the steering wheel, and around the driver display. The second pack is Hand Painted Pack which involves a unique Tangelo Orange color used around the center console, steering wheel spoke, gear-lever inner surround, and air vent surrounds.
Starting from $125,000
The extra power comes at an increased cost. The base price of the 2027 Lotus Emira 420 Sport stands at $125,400, which is $10,000 above the V-6 SE model. Ordering for the car is currently open, and its deliveries will start in August.
| 2027 Lotus Emira 420 Sport | |
| BASE PRICE | $125,400 |
| LAYOUT | Mid-engine, RWD, 2-pass, 2-door hatchback |
| ENGINE | 2.0L turbocharged direct-injected DOHC I-4 |
| TRANSMISSION | Eight-speed twin-clutch transmission |
| CURB WEIGHT | 3,208 lb (mfr) |
| WHEELBASE | 101.4 in |
| L x W x H | 173.7 x 74.6 x 48.3 in |
| 0-60 MPH | 3.7 sec (mfr est) |
| EPA FUEL ECON, CITY/HWY/COMB | 18/26/21 mpg (mfr est) |
| EPA RANGE, COMB | 302 miles (MT est) |
| ON SALE | August 2026 |
