When the Lotus Emira launched, we classified it as a bit of a mixed bag. We praised it for its tech-happy interior and the AMG powertrain is definitely a plus but, at the same time, there’s a little too much of that typical Lotus DNA – especially for a vehicle that marks the end of Lotus’ gas-powered lineup forever. We recently learned how much the Lotus Emira will cost and, while the flagship, V6-powered Emira First Edition will command a wallet-hitting price that nudges beyond six figures, the entry-level model is much more affordable, putting in the company of some strange competition.

Buying A Lotus Emira Instead of a BMW M4 – The Next Trend?

2021 Lotus Emira
Lotus

The Lotus Emira is quite an interesting package. It rides on top of a brand-new chassis that was built specifically to accommodate Toyota’s 2GR-FE 3.5-liter V-6 and an all-new engine: an AMG four-cylinder. In fact, it’s the very same 2.0-liter four-cylinder that powers the Mercedes-AMG A45. At launch, this engine will make 360 horsepower but, down the road, more powerful versions will be launched and could even reach the same 421 horsepower offered in the AMG A45 S. Torque specs so far are unknown for the AMG unit, however, we do know that it will be mated to a dual-clutch transmission and power will be sent exclusively to the rear wheels.

But wait, I’m talking about competing with the M4. The M4’s 3.0-liter inline-six offers between 473 and 503 horsepower, a sprint to 60 mph in just over four seconds, and a top speed capped at 155 mph. The Emira is said to hit the same benchmark in around 4.4-4.5 seconds and will top out at 180 mph. Surely, I can’t be serious about the Emira being an M4 competitor, right?

I’m actually dead serious. First of all, we’re talking about a mid-engine Lotus, so you already know it’ll be able to handle its own in the bends. On top of that, the Emira will weigh in at around 3,000 pounds, so I’m willing to bet this thing is going to be phenomenal to drive. That weight, by the way, is also significantly lighter than the M4, which tips the scales at close to 4,000 pounds.

So, to sum it up, the Emira brings AMG power, significantly less weight, supercar styling, and – the best part yet – a starting price of $77,300 when it lands in the U.S. in 2022. The Base BMW M4? It starts at $71,800 – not far off from the Lotus. Sure, the BMW M4 will take the Emira in a straight line any day of the week, but the Emira will be more exotic, engaging, lighter, and nimble. Call me crazy, but I bet the Emira is going to pose a decent threat to the M4.