420 Sport officially teased on social media, full reveal on 26 May 2026
- Thread starter hoho
- Start date
we won't know 100% until the configurator is updated
My hot take...
I really like some of the carbon add ons as they're done subtly...front splitter, side skirts and rear spoiler are great IMO. I would look to source them once they're made available. I'd pass on the fender scoops and intake scoops as they look like literal add-ons glued on top.
Sunroof??? LOL. Targa top or go home, Lotus. That sunroof is extremely sad.
i4 with a couple more horsepower? nope
This is the biggest "oh shit moment" reaction from a manufacturer. Toyota V6 is gone and all they have left are these i4s that they can't sell. They're just sitting. They're in the middle of a refresh model year with limited engine options until the Horse is ready for primetime so they had to come up with this marketing gimmick in order to repackage i4s and sell them. That's it. They need to get rid of all the committed i4 engines before the horse comes so they threw on a bunch of carbon pieces already manufactured by Aerie, CT, et al in China, cut a stupid looking hole in the roof to call it a sunroof and tweaked an A/F value in the table to give it 15 more HP and boom, the 420m was born to offload i4s. Got to give it to them, at least they're trying...
But I'll wait for the rear spoiler and side skirts to come to market for the rest of us...
I really like some of the carbon add ons as they're done subtly...front splitter, side skirts and rear spoiler are great IMO. I would look to source them once they're made available. I'd pass on the fender scoops and intake scoops as they look like literal add-ons glued on top.
Sunroof??? LOL. Targa top or go home, Lotus. That sunroof is extremely sad.
i4 with a couple more horsepower? nope
This is the biggest "oh shit moment" reaction from a manufacturer. Toyota V6 is gone and all they have left are these i4s that they can't sell. They're just sitting. They're in the middle of a refresh model year with limited engine options until the Horse is ready for primetime so they had to come up with this marketing gimmick in order to repackage i4s and sell them. That's it. They need to get rid of all the committed i4 engines before the horse comes so they threw on a bunch of carbon pieces already manufactured by Aerie, CT, et al in China, cut a stupid looking hole in the roof to call it a sunroof and tweaked an A/F value in the table to give it 15 more HP and boom, the 420m was born to offload i4s. Got to give it to them, at least they're trying...
But I'll wait for the rear spoiler and side skirts to come to market for the rest of us...
The rest of your comment depicts the opposite but fair critique.
I'm just trying to be a little nice and give them some credit. Maybe towards the engineers and factory workers...not so much towards the true decision makers.
I found this on the GGLC FB group. Great article with detailed insight...
PRESS RELEASE - May 26, 2026
Emira 420 Sport: the lightest and most powerful Emira yet
• A pure expression of the Lotus DNA, with every advancement made in the pursuit of performance: carbon fibre, titanium exhaust, lithium-ion battery, two-way adjustable Multimatic dampers and high-performance tyres.
• 25kg lighter and 25kg more downforce than the Emira Turbo, with the Lightweight Handling Pack, and delivering 420PS, 500Nm and 0–62mph in 3.9 seconds.
• Removable roof panel introduced for the first time on the Emira, available across the full range.
• Emira 420 Sport is available to order now, with customer deliveries expected from August 2026.
Hethel, Norfolk – 26 May 2026
Lotus today introduces the Emira 420 Sport - the most powerful, lightest and most aerodynamically capable Emira ever built.
The Emira 420 Sport sits at the apex of the Emira line-up and has been designed specifically to deliver even more performance both on road, and on track. It reinforces Lotus commitment to preserving its DNA by delivering greater agility, response and driver engagement.
Emira 420 Sport produces 420PS from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, accelerates from 0–62mph in 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 186mph.
With the optional Lightweight Handling Pack, the Emira 420 Sport is 25kg lighter than the Emira Turbo and generates 25kg of additional downforce. A series of aerodynamic revisions improve cooling and track performance without increasing drag.
Lotus is also introducing a removable tinted glass roof panel for the Emira, available now across the full model range.
Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Lotus Group said:
“Emira 420 Sport is proof of our commitment to Focus 2030, and we’re listening to our customers. This is what obsessive engineering looks like. We've built on everything Emira has achieved to date to deliver a car that is even more connected, more intuitive, and more rewarding to drive. It is a car for the drivers.”
More performance, reduced weight
The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces 420PS and 500Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission for faster acceleration and more immediate in-gear response.
The Lightweight Handling Pack delivers improved agility and responsiveness, and includes two-way adjustable Multimatic dampers, a titanium exhaust, a lithium-ion battery, carbon fibre components and a dedicated Lotus Track Performance app to measure and record your lap times.
Upgraded aerodynamic and cooling
Exterior updates include a new front splitter, revised front vents, extended side sills, larger air intakes, a lip spoiler and a louvred tailgate. These changes result in airflow to the outboard ra§diators increasing by 15 percent, to the central radiator by 14 percent, and brake cooling improves by 10 percent, as well as exhaust valve airflow increasing by 30%. With these upgrades, drivers are able to experience more consistent performance in demanding conditions, particularly on track. The updates also subtly reference Lotus’ design heritage, echoing cues seen on cars such as the Esprit Turbo.
Chassis and driver focus engagement
The Emira 420 Sport builds on Lotus’ reputation for steering precision and chassis balance. A 5mm lower ride height, combined with revised suspension settings and high-performance tyres, enhances control and feedback.
The bonded aluminium chassis and double wishbone suspension deliver the blend of ride comfort and handling precision that defines the Emira, while electro-hydraulic power steering provides detailed feedback to the driver.
Inside, the cabin is designed to support both road and track driving, with 12-way adjustable seats, a driver-focused layout and intuitive controls. New carbon fibre gearshift paddles combine with updated haptics for added responsiveness and engagement.
Gavin Kershaw, Director of Attributes at Lotus Cars said:
“Emira is globally renowned for its ride and handling – it has been tuned to absorb, settle and communicate, working in harmony with a steering system that remains pure. With the 420 Sport, we've taken that foundation and pushed it further. Adjustable dampers, increased downforce, sharper responses, reduced roll - every detail obsessively engineered to put the driver more in control.”
Enhanced personalisation
The Emira 420 Sport is now available with an optional exterior carbon fibre pack. This includes the front splitter, side sills, wheel arch vents, side pods, rear spoiler and diffuser surround.
Drivers now have a choice of nine-wheel designs and finishes including a new 20-inch 15-spoke forged alloy wheels finished in satin dark grey.
The colour palette is vibrant and extensive, with 16 choices to select from. Unique to the Emira 420 Sport is Tangelo Orange, a vivid and expressive colour that continues a long tradition of Lotus Orange paints.
Two new optional packs for the Emira 420 Sport cabin are available:
• The Carbon Fibre Pack changes the driver display surround with unique geometry; the centre spoke on the steering wheel and the logo surround in the seat back.
• A Hand Painted Pack uses the Tangelo Orange launch colour to add highlights throughout the cabin, including the centre console, steering wheel spoke, gear lever inner and air vent surrounds.
Exhilarating open-air driving from Lotus
A removable tinted glass roof panel is available for the first time on the Emira. Inspired by the Esprit, the panel is designed for quick removal and stores behind the seats in a protective bag, allowing drivers to switch easily between coupé and open-top configurations. Lotus’ underlying architecture ensures dynamic performance remains unchanged.
The feature is now available across all Emira variants.
Pricing and availability
Emira 420 Sport is available to order now, with customer deliveries expected from August 2026.
Country MRSPS starting price*
Europe €129,900
United Kingdom £105,900
United States $122,900
PRESS RELEASE - May 26, 2026
Emira 420 Sport: the lightest and most powerful Emira yet
• A pure expression of the Lotus DNA, with every advancement made in the pursuit of performance: carbon fibre, titanium exhaust, lithium-ion battery, two-way adjustable Multimatic dampers and high-performance tyres.
• 25kg lighter and 25kg more downforce than the Emira Turbo, with the Lightweight Handling Pack, and delivering 420PS, 500Nm and 0–62mph in 3.9 seconds.
• Removable roof panel introduced for the first time on the Emira, available across the full range.
• Emira 420 Sport is available to order now, with customer deliveries expected from August 2026.
Hethel, Norfolk – 26 May 2026
Lotus today introduces the Emira 420 Sport - the most powerful, lightest and most aerodynamically capable Emira ever built.
The Emira 420 Sport sits at the apex of the Emira line-up and has been designed specifically to deliver even more performance both on road, and on track. It reinforces Lotus commitment to preserving its DNA by delivering greater agility, response and driver engagement.
Emira 420 Sport produces 420PS from a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, accelerates from 0–62mph in 3.9 seconds and reaches a top speed of 186mph.
With the optional Lightweight Handling Pack, the Emira 420 Sport is 25kg lighter than the Emira Turbo and generates 25kg of additional downforce. A series of aerodynamic revisions improve cooling and track performance without increasing drag.
Lotus is also introducing a removable tinted glass roof panel for the Emira, available now across the full model range.
Qingfeng Feng, CEO, Lotus Group said:
“Emira 420 Sport is proof of our commitment to Focus 2030, and we’re listening to our customers. This is what obsessive engineering looks like. We've built on everything Emira has achieved to date to deliver a car that is even more connected, more intuitive, and more rewarding to drive. It is a car for the drivers.”
More performance, reduced weight
The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine produces 420PS and 500Nm of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission for faster acceleration and more immediate in-gear response.
The Lightweight Handling Pack delivers improved agility and responsiveness, and includes two-way adjustable Multimatic dampers, a titanium exhaust, a lithium-ion battery, carbon fibre components and a dedicated Lotus Track Performance app to measure and record your lap times.
Upgraded aerodynamic and cooling
Exterior updates include a new front splitter, revised front vents, extended side sills, larger air intakes, a lip spoiler and a louvred tailgate. These changes result in airflow to the outboard ra§diators increasing by 15 percent, to the central radiator by 14 percent, and brake cooling improves by 10 percent, as well as exhaust valve airflow increasing by 30%. With these upgrades, drivers are able to experience more consistent performance in demanding conditions, particularly on track. The updates also subtly reference Lotus’ design heritage, echoing cues seen on cars such as the Esprit Turbo.
Chassis and driver focus engagement
The Emira 420 Sport builds on Lotus’ reputation for steering precision and chassis balance. A 5mm lower ride height, combined with revised suspension settings and high-performance tyres, enhances control and feedback.
The bonded aluminium chassis and double wishbone suspension deliver the blend of ride comfort and handling precision that defines the Emira, while electro-hydraulic power steering provides detailed feedback to the driver.
Inside, the cabin is designed to support both road and track driving, with 12-way adjustable seats, a driver-focused layout and intuitive controls. New carbon fibre gearshift paddles combine with updated haptics for added responsiveness and engagement.
Gavin Kershaw, Director of Attributes at Lotus Cars said:
“Emira is globally renowned for its ride and handling – it has been tuned to absorb, settle and communicate, working in harmony with a steering system that remains pure. With the 420 Sport, we've taken that foundation and pushed it further. Adjustable dampers, increased downforce, sharper responses, reduced roll - every detail obsessively engineered to put the driver more in control.”
Enhanced personalisation
The Emira 420 Sport is now available with an optional exterior carbon fibre pack. This includes the front splitter, side sills, wheel arch vents, side pods, rear spoiler and diffuser surround.
Drivers now have a choice of nine-wheel designs and finishes including a new 20-inch 15-spoke forged alloy wheels finished in satin dark grey.
The colour palette is vibrant and extensive, with 16 choices to select from. Unique to the Emira 420 Sport is Tangelo Orange, a vivid and expressive colour that continues a long tradition of Lotus Orange paints.
Two new optional packs for the Emira 420 Sport cabin are available:
• The Carbon Fibre Pack changes the driver display surround with unique geometry; the centre spoke on the steering wheel and the logo surround in the seat back.
• A Hand Painted Pack uses the Tangelo Orange launch colour to add highlights throughout the cabin, including the centre console, steering wheel spoke, gear lever inner and air vent surrounds.
Exhilarating open-air driving from Lotus
A removable tinted glass roof panel is available for the first time on the Emira. Inspired by the Esprit, the panel is designed for quick removal and stores behind the seats in a protective bag, allowing drivers to switch easily between coupé and open-top configurations. Lotus’ underlying architecture ensures dynamic performance remains unchanged.
The feature is now available across all Emira variants.
Pricing and availability
Emira 420 Sport is available to order now, with customer deliveries expected from August 2026.
Country MRSPS starting price*
Europe €129,900
United Kingdom £105,900
United States $122,900
No option for carbon fibre doors or rear quarter panels - damn!
Another good detailed article on all the options. I like who they are pushing the "Bespoke" Porsche-like approach...
www.thelotusforums.com
Lotus Reveals the Emira 420 Sport: The Lightest and Most Powerful Iteration Yet - TLF - Everything Lotus
Lotus Technology Inc. has officially announced the introduction of the Emira 420 Sport, positioning it at the absolute apex of the Emira lineup. Engineered specifically to bridge the gap between road and circuit, the new model introduces significant enhancements in power, aerodynamic efficiency...
www.thelotusforums.com
Did they add weight somewhere? It feels like the carbon hatch, titanium exhaust, and Li-ion battery should net savings of more than 25kg? The glass roof is optional so I'm assuming that wasn't part of their headline weight savings statement
2027 V6? Do you mean the Horse V6 Hybrid? That's not coming until 2028 is it?
I'm guessing this 420 sport is a few cosmetics just to tide us over until the 2028 model.
Ngl, I don't think this is a hot take at all...I agree with you that the 420 Sport exists to offload the i4s they likely have committed to before the Horse transition, but I don't think it's an "oh shit" moment...
i4 sales will never catch up to V6 sales and Lotus knows this (that's why it's not necessarily 'oh shit') but if you talk to a few dealers they're receiving a lot more inquiries/interest on the i4s over the V6 in the past year so Lotus is merely taking advantage of this sentiment to accelerate i4 sales...the effort to essentially rebadge with an i4 is probably far less than also doing it with the V6 (which they probably don't have as many lying around like they do AMGs anyway).
I also hope they make some of the aero bits available for sale separately as i'd definitely pick up the front splitter and rear lip, the other pieces are a meh for me (and given the price I got my '24 i4 FE at I would not have justified the add-ons of the 420 Sport to warrant almost an additional $30k USD, just no lol).
I'm also very interested to learn more about the adjustable dampers + li-on battery though.
After reading all the details, "my hot take" is the following...
The mark-up to what the base Turbo costs essentially covers the same amount we would spend to get all of the aftermarket crap that several of us have added (including a "light tune") yet we have it with a full factory warranty. So, for a much as we like to complain as Lotus owners, I actually think this is a deal when you consider you get it all straight from Lotus, warranty included and largely get to spec it as you want.
Now if they would just cut the green wire from the factory, man they would sell millions...
The mark-up to what the base Turbo costs essentially covers the same amount we would spend to get all of the aftermarket crap that several of us have added (including a "light tune") yet we have it with a full factory warranty. So, for a much as we like to complain as Lotus owners, I actually think this is a deal when you consider you get it all straight from Lotus, warranty included and largely get to spec it as you want.
Now if they would just cut the green wire from the factory, man they would sell millions...
This mirrors my thoughts as well. Will be awaiting the configurator update.
I get the sentiment but some of us got really good deals on our i4 Emiras, it's not as cut and dry as that unless people are out there really dropping essentially $30k on aftermarket aero bits and a tune (the difference i'd be paying for a 420 Sport over how much I got my FE with 1800 miles on it for).
I get why they rebadged to offload the i4s and reset with a new base price, because it's a lot more tempting to those who don't ALREADY own an Emira, but realistically how many of those people were left and just waiting for some aero bits to be pushed over the edge to drop $122k+ for the i4 at this juncture?
I like the idea behind the 420 Sport, don't get me wrong, but it doesn't seem enticing enough to trade in an existing i4 if you're already an owner and also seems like a bad value proposition when we're getting an entirely new engine next year with more power and likely these aero mods carrying over.
This edition seems like bait for people that want to FOMO over 'bespoke' variants and then get the exact same feeling next year when it's time to think about switching to the Hybrid.
As did I. In fact, I'm on my second i4 (don't ask about the first), both purchased new at ridiculous pricing (thanks to patience and relentless negotiation...). With that said, this will absolutely bring in some that were on the sideline given the advantages previously mentioned. In fact, true Lotus aficionados know that this is part of every Lotus product life cycle (release a tricked out version at the end). There's a whole population of Lotus enthusiasts that specifically wait for this at the end.
So yeah, I think they'll move a few...
I agree they'll still move some but also, those 'aficionados' you're referring to are or were likely waiting for a manual 'Final' edition of an Emira, not a 420 Sport variant of the i4.
So after checking all the details, I am a bit torn. In generell the car looks quiet good, but too busy. I like the louvre but hate the fenders and skirts, it just looks tacky, like they just slaped on some aftermarket parts, the more the better… and it is absolutely beyond me that lotus is selling the 420 Sport without a proper seat option.
In the end, i can sleep well and take delivery of my V6 SE manual tomorrow, cant wait!
In the end, i can sleep well and take delivery of my V6 SE manual tomorrow, cant wait!
Congrats! You won't be disappointed with your choice. I drove both powertrains when shopping for this car among others and the V6 manual was my #1 reason to buy this car. i4 was fine but there are many cars out there with that type of powertrain that are better than the Emira for me. There was nothing special about it. a manual with that beautiful supercharger sound out of that Yota engine, however, WAS special. And I don't think it's just my opinion on that, just look at the sales numbers.
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