Lotus has tweaked the Emira and added a new ‘V6 SE’ top-spec model

Lotus has rejigged its Emira lineup for what feels like the 63rd time this year, adding a new range-topping ‘V6 SE’ and entry-level ‘Turbo’. It means the pre-existing Turbo SE now shifts into the middle ground. Of course.

As the name suggests, the V6 SE will continue to use Toyota’s 3.5-litre supercharged, er, V6. Rated at 400bhp and 310lb ft of torque, it’s good for 0-62mph in 4.3s. To help you do just that, the six-speed manual ‘box gains a new compression mount for slicker shifts.

Elsewhere, Lotus has tweaked the damper calibration and made subtle tweaks to the wheel alignment, sharpening up the handling and improving ride quality as a result.

Aside from the model-specific badging, the V6 will get 20in forged alloys, red brake calipers and a ‘Zing Grey’ paint finish as standard. You’ll also get the option of Lotus’ new ‘Racing Line’ accents, which add a subtle pinstripe to the exterior and colour-matched mirror caps.

Moving on to the Turbo, it’ll pinch the same twin-scroll 2.0-litre four-pot as the Turbo SE, albeit detuned to 360bhp and 317lb ft. Still, it’s just one-tenth off the V6’s 0-62mph time, and tops out at a still respectable 171mph (compared to the V6’s 180mph).

The kit list is healthy too: 10in infotainment screen, 190-watt audio system and 12-way adjustable seats as standard. Plus, a safety suite with technologies like Traffic Sign Recognition, Blind Spot Warning and Fatigue Detection.

Lotus has also made technical improvements to the Emira, such as an optimised heating system for better coolant flow, and a higher engine start-up temperature so it’s better suited to harsh conditions. Basically, it’ll kick into life more easily when British weather does… British weather things.

The V6 SE and Turbo will be available from September, priced at £96,500 and £79,500 respectively.