Lotus has confirmed the 2026 model year Emira lineup for Australia, with the return of a manual V6 option becoming the new flagship.
The 2026 range spans three variants; Emira Turbo, Emira Turbo SE, and the Emira V6 SE. Both turbo versions use a Mercedes-AMG 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder producing 268kW/430Nm and 298kW/480Nm, respectively. They both use an eight-speed dual-clutch auto transmission.
Going for the Turbo SE also adds the Lotus Drivers Pack as standard, bringing sports suspension, a track drive mode, launch control and upgraded brakes. Both turbocharged models also benefit from expanded equipment, new wheel designs, and fresh paint options over the 2025 model, with SE versions gaining additional leather and Alcantara trim.
Returning to the range, the V6 SE swaps the turbo-four for a supercharged 3.5-litre Toyota-sourced V6 producing 298kW. It comes with a six-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip differential as standard, with an automatic gearbox available as an option. Lotus says allocation for the V6 is likely to be more restricted than the turbo variants.
For the first time, every Emira comes with advanced driver assistance features, including autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and fatigue detection, with adaptive cruise control and other functions offered in an optional package.
Lotus says the naming of the models draws from its heritage, with the SE badge historically denoting higher performance and equipment levels across models such as the Esprit Turbo SE, Elan SE, and Europa SE.
An online configurator with full options pricing will launch in August 2025, allowing customers to tailor their orders ahead of deliveries commencing in 2026. Prices start from the following (excluding on-road costs):
2026 Lotus Emira Turbo dual-clutch auto: $207,990
2026 Lotus Emira Turbo SE dual-clutch auto: $223,990
2026 Lotus Emira V6 SE manual: $252,990
