The Emira Turbo SE revives a historic naming convention from Lotus’ past. The Turbo designation dates back to 1980, when Lotus introduced the Turbo Esprit, one of the early production sportscars to adopt forced induction. The SE badge, originally signifying ‘Special Equipment’, has been used across various Lotus models – including the Elan, Cortina, Esprit and Europa – to denote versions with more power and additional features. Staying true to that philosophy, the Emira Turbo SE offers a blend of increased performance and upgraded equipment.

The Emira Turbo SE features an AMG-sourced 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Power has been increased to 298 kW (up 30 kW from the standard model), while peak torque is up by 50 N.m (to 480 N.m). These changes result in a top speed of 290 km/h, an 18 km/h improvement, and a quicker 0-100 km/h sprint time of 4.0 seconds. The Turbo SE also includes Lotus’ Drivers Pack as standard. This package adds sportier suspension settings, uprated ventilated brake discs and launch control. Cosmetic updates include 20-inch Satin Grey forged alloy wheels, Zinc Grey paint, red brake callipers, black Lotus badging and black tailpipes.

The Emira V6 remains in the line-up and features a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 producing 298 kW. The six-pot model is available with either a six-speed manual or, as an option, automatic gearbox with the same number of cogs. Performance highlights include a limited-slip differential for manual variants, cross-drilled brake discs and Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperSport tyres.