The same state-of-the-art design, astonishing performance, and benchmark ride and handling are all now available fuelled by a second powertrain. Under the hood of the newly announced Emira First Edition hides a formidable 2.0-litre inline-four AMG engine—and this turbocharged version of our award-winning sports car delivers everything you would expect from the last-ever petrol-powered Lotus.

Coined the most accomplished Lotus ever made, the Emira has been causing a stir since its arrival two years ago. The addition of the four-cylinder engine adds a rather unexpected twist. Supplied by technical partner AMG – the performance division of Mercedes-Benz – the 2-litre unit is the world’s most powerful four-cylinder in series production. Capable of 0-62mph (0-100km/h) in 4.4 seconds and a searing maximum speed of 171mph (275 km/h), the inline-4 engine is the perfect partner for the Emira’s lightweight, stiff chassis structure. Developing a stomach churning 360bhp, it also has the highest specific power output in the Emira range.

Highly-specced as standard, with personalisation options to satisfy any wish, the Emira First Edition is the epitome of driver-focused luxury. Available with a Tour or Sport chassis for a more purpose-driven configuration, it features a twin-scroll turbocharger, combined direct and port fuel injection system and a variable valvetrain for incredible performance, maximum comfort and remarkable fuel economy. Its eight-speed dual-clutch transmission means drivers can opt for the reward of full manual control or the comfort of automatic gear changes. And did we mention she is also breathtakingly beautiful?

“The Emira V6 has already proved incredibly successful, with many thousands of orders received from around the world. Now, with the four-cylinder Emira joining the range, we’re adding a new dimension to the car’s breadth of capability and appeal, offering new levels of efficiency and accessibility while continuing to offer all the performance and agility that our customers expect.”

Mike Johnstone, Group Vice-President and Chief Commercial Officer, Lotus.