Lotus Emira's Ultra-Realistic Configurator Is Like A Video Game

Set to replace the Elise, Exige, and the Evora, the Lotus Emira has a lot weighing on its shoulders. It has to appeal to the die-hard Lotus fans - who value lightness and agility over everything else - and convince Porsche and Jaguar buyers that the brand really can produce a sports car that can be used every day. While previously, Lotus had a simple configurator for the new sports car, today it launched a new ultra-realistic version, showcasing more design options, placing the car in several settings, and even creating a custom video of your build.

Currently, just one engine option is available from Spring - the 400-horsepower 3.5-liter supercharged V6, sourced from Toyota and tuned by Yamaha. The V6 has a base price of $93,900. The website notes the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (from Mercedes-AMG) will only be made available from Autumn of this year. Both are First Edition derivatives, with the Base model arriving in 2023, with a price tag of $74,900.

A six-speed automatic transmission is available on the V6 for an additional $2,150. As standard, the Emira receives a six-speed manual with a Torsen limited-slip differential. Two chassis setups are also available (Touring and Sports) although neither are cost options. The latter does give you access to high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires in place of the standard Goodyear Eagle F1s, however.

A total of six colors are available with the First Edition - Seneca Blue, Nimbus Gray, Shadow Gray, Dark Verdant, Hethel Yellow, and Magma Red (pictured) - while three rims choices will be on offer. Brake calipers can also be color-matched, with Lotus painting them one of four shades: black, silver, red or yellow. For $1,400 extra, the British carmaker will fit the Emira with a Black Pack, which gives it a gloss black roof panel, mirror caps, side sills, and front splitter, among other things.