REVIEW | Lotus Emira First Edition V6 - One Year on: The Good News & The Bad News

[@driven.videos]

Okay, so it seems we’ve ruffled a few Lotus fan feathers. We’ve done our best in this review to point out the honest pros and cons that come with the model. John goes into even greater detail in our written review too over on driven.site Whilst some might be unhappy about the ‘negative points’ raised, these are pointed out as things we noticed in a week with the car and (in johns words) “the kind of things I’d want to know about before spending £82k on a car”. Regardless, thanks for the comments and thank you for watching. Don’t forget to subscribe to the video and perhaps we’ll revisit and address some of the comments in a follow up video with the i4 AMG engined variant. Stay awesome ❤

[@drew699]

The Boxster & Cayman are mid engined, with exhausts directly below the boot floor. Why is there no criticism of the boot content being heated? I’ve never understood the issue with using third party switchgear. Are Ford & Vauxhall stalks really any worse than Volvo? No. Lotus make 1,500 cars per year, Porsche makes 100K. What does the car drive like?

[@femidawodu5514]

@@drew699 😭😭😭😭

[@hl236]

Keep up the journalism integrity. If you don't flag both pros and cons, no matter how small then you won't be that different to media that never say anything that discredits their advertisers.

[@fredericberthou]

C’est simple si vous voulez vraiment profiter de cette voiture et de son châssis et avec son poids actuel , il faut simplement libérer son moteur et vous obtiendrez 470 cv et plus de couple , sinon vous aurez une puissance voiture sous motorisé par rapport au châssis et au poids , vous comprenez ?

[@divertiti]

​@@drew699 Because Boxster and Cayman don't actually heat the contents of the boot. They're actually well designed unlike the Lotus.

[@geargrinds]

With respect, feels odd to review a Lotus and focus more on switch gear and storage than steering feel and chassis dynamics. Also seems unfair to compare a fully-loaded 2023 price to a 2008 Evora starting price. The GT410, the version this car would be closest to spiritually and chronologically, was MORE expensive (85k) than this fully-loaded first edition. Ford switches and all.

[@Tiagocouto12]

Not just that but he also should point inflation as a point for comparison, also in termas of quality is miles ahead of

[@sinuous001]

@@Tiagocouto12 you’re right. bank of england inflation calculator shows 50k in 2008 would be about 77k in 2024.

[@MrAnderson3352]

I also think the same as you. This car is a second sports car. Additionally, I think this style of design is truly amazing at this price.

[@Blas4ublasphemy]

With more power and less weight the Evora is quite appealing used.

[@alistairkittow3648]

To be fair if you watched how slow he was driving it around the Lotus circuit I'm not really sure he knows how to drive a car fast

[@Callabrator]

It really is achingly beautiful and much more special than a Cayman. I personally feel like it’s worth dealing with the quirks to get that.

[@driven.videos]

You’re right. For many, the beauty is all they will ever want or need.

[@Hapkin]

Not just the beauty. It is incredible to drive. Just ask Throttle house that really gave it a fair shake. #caroftheyear. They were also more entertaining reviewing it I might add.

[@rm1626]

the only legit negatives mentioned in my opinion, considering this is meant to be a sports car and not some sort of utility vehicle, are the redline and maybe the ability to rev match...I like throttle house's take on the redline - while its low, it forces you to shift more which turns out to be more engaging/fun - I'm hoping this is true...

[@hamsterbrigade]

Anyone complaining about not getting above 60mph in 2nd gear is probably a Porsche lover who is used to extremely long gears. A lot of people don't like long gears in a manual because it means you don't do much shifting, which is the point of getting a manual for those people; the shifting. Lotus basically chose to prioritize driving experience over 0-60 times. I commend them for that.

[@MrAnderson3352]

wow 👍👍

[@juliuskona3299]

I don't get those people, too. They complained about the gears of the porsche 718 apyder manual being too long.

[@MarkExige410]

Thanks for your review but I can’t help but feel a few negative points are not appropriate, especially the price. If you go to the inflation calculator set up by the Bank of England then you’ll realise £82,000 quid in Sep 2023 equals to £52,000 quid in 2008 so how come £55k to £60k make it great value for money in 2008 while £82k today makes it too expensive? Also, the £75k starting price of Cayman GTS does not account for any optional and we all know the importance of that while a first edition Emira gives you almost every single option available. I agree the driving experience is definitely compromised by the added weight and stringent emission standard but I still think it is a great car and the pros far outweigh the cons.

[@WilliamVillanueva-my6cv]

So true! Porsche all but takes out any and all features and accessories from their cars and you have to "purchase it separately" in the accessories list. If you option it to equal that of the Lotus Emira, it is very possible that you might pay upwards of 90,000!

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

I can configure a GTS to 100k in less time than it takes to finish an espresso, lol

[@hobojon44]

are all the sport cars I like so loud that I can.t stand to ride in them every test drive i hear all I hear is the exhaust

[@LessAiredvanU]

Every time I find something I like I go and find reviews on it, and after a while I start passing over the positive ones saying much the same thing - I need to find a (semi) critical one that points out those things which might, if unknown, detract from the expectations of only reading positive reviews. For that, I think it is an excellent critique; making the conclusion - that the compromises and faults ultimately are exceeded by the driving experience - very worthwhile. Anyone who invests in buying this car will be better prepared. Thank you.

[@yassermoumneh4262]

Considering a sport car, aren’t engine sound and response, steering feeling, breakibg sensation and car balance in corners much more valuable aspects to consider than indicators or booth considerations ? Good news is that there is a booth 😉! This isn’t a compact but a car to travel in the Alps and have fun during Sunday drive. What about driving sensations ?

[@EvoraGT430]

This guy clearly has no clue.

[@divertiti]

The whole point is that this car is shit to live with and not good for a road trip to the alps.

[@dansutherland70]

Firstly, the worst thing about owning an Emira is dealing with Lotus, and the factory team are being as crap as ever. They've clearly lent you an early car which hasn't had the latest (or even the earliest ) updates. Door seals, issues between carplay and audio volume, wireless charging inconsistency are all things covered under the various recalls and software updates. The boot/water issue, I've never had wet luggage, it's a crap bit of design, mostly actually because of the open vent sucking in leaves in the autumn and because it's really hard to get to it to clean it, but if the car is wet I just open the boot slowly. it's not that hard. I forced myself to watch this all so as not to be a viewer angrily typing in opinions before seeing the ending. But the whiny presenting style, combined with the tone of 1980s top gear really grates, an exercise in throwing shade infused with hyperbole (water cascading into the boot) at something in a knowing manner while missing the point of the car entirely, a car many established journalists seem to really like. Barely any mention of the steering, the front end, the grip, the balance on the throttle, just reviews of the ICE and how impractical it might be for shopping. He is right about the gear knob though. The Lotus is a proper drivers car. it's meant to be hard to master, so it's rewarding when you get it right. Drive it in Track - always, unless you're on the motorway, the gearbox is beautiful when you work out how to use it and frustrating when you fluff gears. The engine is tricky, nothing below 2K, but a lovely top end, and really rewarding to run around in a band between 3 and 5k on public roads without doing licence losing speed. The car has faults, The boot lock sticks, Wiper motors seem to be a consumable item, the seat leather wears waaay to easily, the parking sensors have a mind of their own, water puddles on the body in the rear deck where the wings and spoiler intersect causing rapid damage to the worst thing about the car - the abysmal paint quality - and Lotus are utterly, woefully crap at customer service..... but for a UK B-road. it's perfectly sized, powered and setup for an incredible drive. Despite the presenter / author's assertion, the Emira isn't in a competitive market where other cars have fewer moments of truth. In fact it's in a market of one. There's no comparable car at that price point from anyone, not Jaguar (F-type ceased production), not Porsche (Cayman ceased production, a base 911 Carrera is going to cost over £100k), not BMW, not Audi, only perhaps a Corvette comes close on price, but also has a laundry list of moments. There are no other new analogue sports cars for sale that aren't kit cars. but even if there were I'd say the Lotus would still be top of the pile. There's no better analogue drivers car this side of a Singer.

[@rayjoedef]

so in other words, you agree with his review....😁

[@Xolition]

Y u mad tho

[@drummerdoingstuff5020]

Well said, they can’t all be capable of comprehension.

[@fzr1000981]

Keep hearing about garbage paint which is not good on a $100k car

[@ms8742]

Caymans are everywhere. This car is much more unique in every way and that alone is why it is a better buy than a Cayman. No one looks twice at a Cayman. Everyone looks at this car.

[@49100CHP]

Correct! My best friend ( lucky for me) has no kids and lots of $. He has a Audi TT series 2 - turbo awd in red, 2009 Porsche Boxster 6 cylinder - black, 2017 Mercedes C43 AMG Coupe - twin turbo awd - metallic blue , 2022 Ford Mustang GT - California Special - grabber (almost Fluor) blue , and in the last 4 weeks a 2023 Lotus Emira : First Edition in Yellow with Black roof. I have driven all except the Emira. He advises, for looks, the Emira is Ferrari like in the admiration and respect from other drivers. The Porsche is ignored or frowned upon. Just another Porsche.

[@Jay-xr3sb]

Depends if u need a pat on the back

[@ms8742]

@@Jay-xr3sb It's nice to have a car that isn't common everywhere.

[@Jay-xr3sb]

@@ms8742 you need validation, I get it. It's cool if someone confused your car for a ferrari

[@ms8742]

@@Jay-xr3sb I don't need validation. It's great to have a car that looks this good and is not common and checks all the boxes, mid enging, manual, etc. It's that simple.

[@tomindenver1331]

Thanks for sharing your impressions, John. As one of those long-time Lotus fans, none of your negatives would put me off the car. In December of 2004, I test drove an S2 Elise. I had spent a lot of time racing karts and I always said my dream car would be a larger kart. But I still remarked at how small the air bag in the steering wheel was. "Yeah," said the salesman along for the ride. "That's so they'll be able to identify you by your dental records." He then reminded me why it was so small-weight. Same for the weak AC, the pitiful radio and the complete lack of a limited slip. By the time we returned to the dealership, I was hooked-none of that mattered. 18 years later, I still have my Bordeaux Red Elise and have done more mods and track days than I can count. And, except for snowy days, it's my daily driver, too. We Lotus people are weird. I'd absolutely consider a beautiful Emira, once I can no longer climb into (or out of) my Elise.

[@kenyattamoses5316]

I don't really think people buy a lotus with the same mindset as buying a kid hauling SUV daily driver. In my opinion I think you missed the whole point of the car. And while comparing it to mass production cars from manufactures with seemingly endless funding seems logical, I can't help but feel that all car journalists miss the point when reviewing this car. In my opinion the Emira doesn't have any direct competition. It's a car that's unique in it's own way. If you want something that seems to have great build quality and are plentiful then go for those other brands. However, if you want an exclusive hand built sports car that focuses on the joy of driving for the same pricing as the other massed produced vehicles then I think we have a winner. To me this car is special in a way that modern sports cars with more financial support can't be. Enjoy these days because both the Evora and Emira will be legends that we watch on KZbin in a decade or so. And yes I've driven the Evora and Emira and love them both.

[@jtothepmusic]

This review is about 10% valid. Most of it seems to try and make an issue of something that is not an issue at all (in my experience). Plus, you could have bought a Cayman knowing that it is a great car and probably cheaper but the fact that it just looks like a Cayman is exactly why I bought an Emira. You could easily turn this whole video around and say wow - what a bargain, its a car that drives brilliantly and looks like it should cost £200k. It's the whole experience that matters and I think the Emira delivers it pretty well.

[@alistairkittow3648]

By the time you add all the options that come on the lotus to the Porsche it will cost just as much if not more

[@neilturner6749]

Am baffled by the reviewers comments about faults with the Evora at launch being ok because it was a £50,000 car being acceptable, but not on a new Emira at £80,000, implying Lotus had tried to move the car up the price ladder without sufficiently improving quality to match. Well £50k in 2008 with 15yrs inflation is now £77k in 2023, so the asking price is almost identical in relative terms, completely negating that argument.

[@jimmyjt16]

I too was baffled by that comment. This guy has totally discounted inflation in his reason for not liking this car. Strange review.

[@EvoraGT430]

Was going to say exactly the same thing. This guy clearly has no understanding of compound interest.

[@tony57racing4]

So right, and he said thats there is many cars you could get insted... whats that?

[@cjscorah]

It's the same price as the Evora was in 2008, if you apply RPI adjustment

[@vitoarminio1]

Will gladly pay that price for the first car Ive drooled over in quite some time (in my price range) Even if Porsche is a better car and cheaper - it looks too much like the same car did a dozen years ago. You see it and think Who Cares? Cant wait for my Emira. Gladly pay MSRP to be the first in my neighborhood to turn heads for quite some time to come

[@nickb-]

Two comments: (1) It's a bit strange to review a Lotus and barely talk about the driving dynamics. (2) No one gets out of a Porsche dealership with a Cayman GTS without spending 10k+ on options. The Emira FE is loaded with every option, and literally not a penny extra to spend.

[@driven.videos]

Thanks for watching and commenting. Fair point on the options list, you’re right, the Porsche would certainly be a fair chunk more with a list of options.

[@ixD9]

Here in the US, a Cayman GTS 4.0 with minimal options easily breaks the $100-110k range, and the waiting list is so long that the dealers want $15k "market adjustment" on top of that, so you're looking at a $120k Cayman. The Emira V6 6MT FE is $105k basically loaded. Much different equation here.

[@meenboli]

Ok - I have one on order March 2024 build. While I don't disagree with your criticisms at the start of your review - I have a different view on them. The boot - gets warm - so what? I won't be shopping for food in it - and if I do, I'll put it behind the seat. It's not why I'm buying the car, and also won't be for many other people. The phone connectivity niggles I'm sure will be pretty annoying, but I had all the same issues with my 2018 Audi S6 - which drove me daft. The price - I look at it 2 ways - there's likely to be around 7000 1st editions (from what I've read - don't quote me!) - which makes the car fairly rare and desirable. Also, comparing it to the Exige being 50k in 2008, to 80k now, well, an Audi S6 was £50k in 2008, and £84k now, so what's the difference? Things have gone up! But, I also see that it's got a Toyota engine, and it's hard to see where the money is. Then I remind myself it's hand built in low volumes - and it's staggering beautiful - worth every penny in my eyes. Mine will live in the garage, and come out on a sunny day so the boot lid filling with water won't be a problem. My dad's Lexus LS400 used to have exactly the same problem - remember those? the 'perfect' saloon from the 90s I agree, the front speaker grille should be made out of a matte finish - I'll have to live with that. Good review though, with a good style and just the right hint of humour 👌 Remember - it's a Lotus - it's meant for fun, not B&Q and Asda. 😉

[@charlesrogers8420]

My only complaint….. it’s designed to be a daily driver, so I expect modern safety feature like blind spot monitoring. The rest of the car is phenomenal. Keep up the great work Lotus.

[@billshoe22191]

Love the honesty in this review. Greatly appreciate you pointing out the faults of the vehicle instead of catering to the manufacturer so that they are happy. Keep up the great work

[@vetteseller5]

I drive a 1971 Corvette Stingray, and currently waiting on my Emira build. No matter how you slice it, this car is great. People that complain should ride the bus for a year, then get into this Lotus. All you'll have is praise. I can tell you about all the quirks on my 71, but what for.

[@kev851]

Really fabulous supercar Lotus Emira!!

[@ric7576]

Just drove one of these, Porsche 718 GTS 4.0 and Jaguar F type P450. All in the space of 2 weeks. This was least practical. Most comfortable was the Jag. But this was by far the best to drive. Most fun BY FAR. Regular British B Roads and some A roads. By FAR the best of all. No idea what smack you are talking about the gear shift BTW, no worse than Porsche, in fact I’d go as far to say better. As for the “trunk” I’m not sure this is a car geared up to doing you weekly trip to ASDA. It’s a sports car. Lame review.

[@andrewrossnagel9433]

You're pointing out Lotus' biggest flaw without realizing it. They have horrible qc, especially with this car. Lotus is like a box of chocolate ect. Combine the uncertainty of build quality with the certainty that Lotus will be slow to address/fix the issues may they arise. This is a huge turn off to potential buyers. Me being one of them.

[@dlj1285]

It’s hilarious how NOT objective folks can be about the objects of their desires when folks say critical things about them. All you need to do is research this car and there are an absolute ton of issues being reported…You and other posters on here are almost acting like this guy is the first to report issues. It’s undeniable there are problems. They will probably sort most of the problems as time goes on, but I took this car off my list. It’s nice, but it’s not worth the hassle with these problems and the fact that I have no dealer close by (another problem when buying a lotus)…Makes no sense to bother. If I had a dealer, maybe, be even then I’m not sure it would be worth the hassles until it’s reported that generally the quality problems are sorted.

[@SimonHough-hz8wp]

What a miserable bloke. Its something unique. When I go shopping, I take a prius.

[@dlj1285]

@@SimonHough-hz8wp Why, because you’ve been offended by some facts and reality? Someone says a few things counter to your biased delusions and he’s miserable. Got it.

[@Rex_Racer]

I heard that they lowered the rev limit to prevent valve float (was this an issue in the Evora?). Why did Lotus not just install stronger valve springs and let it rev???

[@snowandlightsmusic]

this was a great review that i think is extra applicable because lotus have specifically marketed this car as 'one car to do everything' rather than 'this is a rich persons 4th car that they only track twice a year'. and that makes a HUGE difference in whether buyers will be willing to put up with the issues he raised. someone who has multiple cars and infrequently drive this likely would, but someone who only owns this and one other car might not. so its important for people to know.

[@omranmkv]

I like this review, Lotus lover here but at least he mentioned all the downsides of the cars in his opinion. it's your choice now

[@benlofthouse5206]

Having owned one for 6 months some of the points are valid (water in boot, generally falls on the engine, which is fine, but if you open it fast it can go into the boot) but in my view the review underplays the fun the car is on your average road. It’s not meant to be a drag race rev limit beast, and I find it is a bit scary at the top end of the revs on country roads. I liked it because you do have to change gears (I have driven Porsche 911s and most of the time you can stay in 3rd from 30- 90) to get the best out of it and it feels raw. The boot fits my golf cubs (albeit in a small carry bag) with no problem, which a lot of other sports car didn’t (who wants to do the shopping run in a small low sports car). In my view it is a bang up to date ‘old car’. People are paying fortunes for restomods with v6 and manual. The gear box is fine in the middle gears but if I could change something I would concede the 2nd 3rd can be tricky.

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

Just from experiences with Exiges, they feel like the need a stronger centering spring for left-right. Does it still have a sloppy lateral feel in neutral?

[@alistairkittow3648]

My Audi S5 empties water in the boot if you open it to fast as well

[@bng2679]

I have done a test drive one (V6 M sport) in this summer. I have to be honestly say, 1) The shift knob feel very good to me, there were no sharp point and it is close to steering 2) I didn't find any issue with the rev limiter. IMHO, you will have to completely missed the shifting point to hit it which I think you did in the video. 3) Pedals position feel great to me, roomy by not too far (Shoes US8/EUR41 ). The steering, shifting feeling is great, very mechanical/connected which what I like. I would say this is a driver car (fun to drive), GTS 4.0 easier to drive to the limit because of all electronic (for those every second count). But GTS and Emira is completely different species - feel totally different, can't really compare. I would prefer GT4 on Nurburgring but Emira on a canyon/fun track day. Overall a very good review!

[@mattsurrey6138]

Despite the complaining, I'm sold on this. Short gears I get to use on my local b-roads (unlike my old manual 911 992 GTS), enough power to give you smiles but not driving bans, rare car (Porsches are everywhere), gearbox I can master, storage for just my overnight bag, some attractively priced 2nd hand cars, great sounding engine (unlike the Alpine), seems cheap to insure and run compared to others (F-Type insurance lol), has an elegance above anything from BMW or Audi. Only other car I can think comes close on the 2nd hand market is the LC500 but thats a very different car.

[@ajvillanueva38]

Real sports car drivers would testify otherwise, with the Emira having just won 1st and 2nd in the Macau Grand Prix. Watching 'til the end, the way he changed gears explains everything about all his complaints. By the way, Emira is not designed for groceries and luggages.

[@earthstick]

I think you will find all cars have gone up in price in the last 15 years. Since furlough, we are experiencing massive inflation. Some items at the supermarket are up 100%. I was surprised at how well priced the car was when it was launched compared to other sports cars.

[@pwolsey42]

Whoever was doing your drone photography - pay them whatever they want. Stunning work!

[@driven.videos]

That’s Luke (themediacowboy on insta) he does much of our other filming and editing too. We’ll pass on the love!

[@MrMightyytau]

As an Evora 400 owner, to be honest the only thing I like about the Elmira is its looks. Full stop. Your 6'1", I'm 5'7" I have to move the seats to get in and out, the Emera seats are electric read slow to move, The Emira seats are to big for me and not a restraining enough, Did I mention I don't like Digital dashes and the ALPINE Double din head unit is upgrade-able. Who put cup holder under your elbow, fine in an auto useless in a manual, only good upgrade was the EVAC controls are in a better place. To me the last real LOTUS was the previous generation of cars.

[@paultune1696]

Not a great review in my opinion and what was the teaser about a cheaper version at the end all about? We've all known about the 2 litre AMG engined cars and the base editions since it was launched, although inflation has meant they will also be nowhere near launch price. I have an Emira, it's a stunningly beautiful car and well worth the money and the few little quirks for what is probably one of the last real driver's cars.

[@driven.videos]

Lotus has openly explained to customers that the editions coming later (after 1st edition) will be priced lower. Have a chat with your dealer and see what they advise.

[@paultune1696]

@driven.videos I already own one and am a fan even though it's the first Lotus I've ever owned. I don't think I could justify buying a second one to the wife though, even if it was a cheaper base edition 2 litre one, which is still likely to be £70k plus once they get round to making them!

[@Oakley-y9i]

This guy is being far to critical about things that are irrelevant when you are buying a sports car, he is not even reviewing the car honestly. There are far to many things I could correct him on, one of the main ones is, yes the cayman has a front and rear storage but it doesn’t have storage behind the seats so basically it’s the same, of course however if your tall good luck in the cayman. When your thinking of buying a sports car, the size of the boot or the speaker glare in the front screen is really not on your mind. I own both a Porsche 911 and a Emira and they are both brilliant cars in there own way. I love an honest review about any car but this is just a childish dig at a company that has developed an awesome car. Also while I remember, a bit worried why he wants to stick a sock over the gear stick !!!!!

[@keithshayle7027]

The Lotus looks fantastic, the Porsche at best looks boring and at worst pig ugly!

[@davidbrearey4147]

A guy that cannot change gears fast enough to drive it properly, has the ordacity to blame the car, WOW. It wasn't a review, it was a it was a sabotage review of a fantastic car. !!!!! 😉😉😉😉😉

[@Slowster]

Interesting review. It does look like it’s a review that will upset quite a few people. I do think the Emira is a very nice car. It offers a great alternative for those who don’t want to drive “another Cayman/Porsche” like everyone else does. Lotus gave it respectable specs like hydraulic steering and double wishbone suspension, along with a more exotic supercar look. It all boils down to whether the drivers like the drive. Drive one yourself and decide whether the experience lives up to expectations. Many things need to go in synergy to work. A Civic with a $15k set of Brembos doesn’t mean the brakes will feel awesome nor have amazing braking. I think a lot of the reviews done by journalists just rave about everything they drive. There are certainly disappointments and pleasant surprises I got after driving one versus what I have read/watched online. It’s not a car that would appeal to typical Porsche-fanatics, nor the general public, as it really is geared towards a particular crowd. There are reasons why some rave about Emira, while there are reasons why Porsche lovers keep buying Porkers. That said. This is not an Exige at all. It’s very much an Evora that’s refreshed with more refinement.

[@lotuselise140]

Hi Guys just go to Harry's Garage Review of this motor, 100% better. He knows what he is talking about.

[@JohnStowers]

This is like a laptop review with a small amount of mediocre driving.

[@robertsmith9373]

Funny he didn't hit the rev limiter once on the Circuit!???

[@JasonPorter]

Yep, seemed to basically boil down to "I want longer gearing because I'm accustomed to that in my Porsche." I think very few enthusiast drivers would agree with him. I'm frustrated by the unnecessarily long gears in the manual 718 Cayman 4.0, for example... that car would be SO much better with shorter gearing in the first 4 gears.

[@ajvillanueva38]

Exactly!

[@alunjones2550]

It really isn't fair to compare the Emira's price to a Caymans'. Low volume, niche manufacturers like Lotus, TVR and Caterham have always been more costly in relation to what you get, less reliable, less sorted in terms of ergonomics and fit and finish but that's because they don't have 2'000 engineers analysing every last detail to the n'th degree. You also say the Evora was realistic in 2008 at £50k but the Emira isn't at £82k. According to the Bank of England inflation calculator £50k in 2008 now equates to £77890, so I think with all the improvements, the extra £5k over inflation isn't too bad. The only unforgivable design cock-up is the water spilling into the boot. Lotus should never have let that slip through testing.

[@thelittlefamily7173]

Inflation adjusted, 50k in 2008 is worth 72k today.

[@filoniz]

Wait for Caterham EV or just get 4 cylinder AMG. You are the kind of reviewer that saves us the trouble and money. Thanks!

[@ballerblocks]

If you really dont like the car great, go buy yourself a Ferrari and suffer in silence. Its a sports car and not a family car.

[@MrAnderson3352]

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍😂😂

[@alistairkittow3648]

You could tell right from the start he didn't want to like it

[@divertiti]

If you don't like the video, great. Move on and be silent.

[@ballerblocks]

@@divertiti you are triggered, god help you.

[@divertiti]

@@ballerblocks You're the one who left the comment crying about the reviewer's opinion, the only triggered person is you

[@zerotoux]

I drove the emira and it’s a gorgeous car. But I agree with the 6800 redline complaint, it really does ruin, not the flow, but the full fun potential. The engine noise is not as great as the Evora GT but it’s the same engine? If it went to 7500 that’d be the sweet spot, but other than that, most points are pretty nitpicky because I see this as a weekend car, not a daily.

[@_Ben4810]

Save yourself 28 minutes of your life...The cons/''compromises'' in this somewhat weak ''why I'm struggling overall to give this car a positive review'' were as follows:- 1. Boot size/capacity & it's heat deterrent capabilities (''fresh groceries & frozen food''....) 2. Lack of a frunk 3. Water holding at base of rear window panel 4. Indicator stalks occasionally not self-cancelling & position of indicator lights on dash display 5. Car's wi-fi occasionally not automatically linking Bluetooth to Apple CarPlay 6. Audio system volume remains quiet after sat-nav voice kicks-in 7. Sunlight reflection from dashboard audio speaker 8. Tops of door windows not fully sealing 9. Moaning about £82k price of car (& the usual dullard comparison to Porsche...(''& they (Porsches) have a front boot''...)) 10. Rev limiter kicking-in & ''ruining the flow'' of driving 11. Gearbox ''sloppy'' & notchy when changing gear (another comparison to Porsche...) 12. Gear knob fixing grub screw & gear position engraving 13. Pedal positions does not allow heel & toe 14. The car's not perfect....🙄🤡🤯

[@andrewtodd5014]

Thank you 🙏 Suffered 12 minutes before finding your comment tho

[@_Ben4810]

@@andrewtodd5014 I am sorry you suffered also Andrew... Harry's Garage Lotus Elan review is the perfect pick-me-up recovery after being exposed to this dross...

[@andrewpreston5046]

hmm, I test drove one had exactly the same come on let's go and as it starts to push, hit rev limiter feeling . I think this made worse because of my current car. Underwhelmed, cancelled deposit. Have had Elise , Porsche etc etc . I'm sure I could get used to liking it for the odd spin on B roads, but I'm also sure a top off Elise /Exige is still even more fun. My baseline expectation of acceleration, handling and GT experience for longer distance driving is now raised way above what this car does by a BMW i8 Roadster.

[@richardbamforth7950]

Two of us traveled around Europe in our Emira. Storage not a problem Going again this year and Spain and Portugal next year. The space behind the seat plus the boot, plenty of room for all you need. Some of the niggles I think are not really niggles, your just not use to how it all connects up to phone properly etc. Most you mention don't exist in mine. But equally, there are some problems (especially the water going all over the engine and into the boot a bit) but what sports cars done have problems. They all do. I love the Emira a great fun touring road car. I was asked what car would you get next (I can spend a lot more if I want to do so). I had a long think. Value for money, another Emira.

[@z06van21]

Interesting review as I looked at the Emira briefly before getting my 718 GT4. While Porsche does somethings better than Lotus, the GT4 is far from perfect. I have 28K miles on mine over the last 2 years and here is a truthful GT4 owner review of its deficiencies... 1.) THE BIGGEST ISSUE is the old school F & R strut based suspension. The amount of toe change as the suspension works its range moves the car around A LOT. 1a.) The PASM damping SUCKS on anything but smooth roads. Out of the box on crappy roads it is less than inspiring. I put $10K worth of suspension into mine with MCS 2-way dampers and additional suspension components in order to get a good alignment and keep the toe in check. You also have to run the dampers pretty stiff to limit suspension travel (in order to minimize toe change) to keep the car stable and from moving around too much. 2.) It only has wired CarPlay, but 3/10 times it will not connect and you have to turn everything off and wait some time and retry, then it will connect. 3.) The A/C doesn't like to click on all the time, especially after driving it, getting out and getting back in within 30 mins. Will take it a good 10 to 15 mins before the compressor decides to kick back on ( I think there is a TSB on that though). 4.) The wheel base and width is shorter than the Emira and that helps on tight stuff, but makes it not as stable as the speeds increase.

[@bng2679]

IMHO Porsches has perfected the macpherson strut but it can't beat a good double wish bone design (except the turning radius). Thanks for sharing.

[@PabloTBrave]

Youre not a fan then? You twice said theirs loads of good points yet we dont know what they are as you managed to spend 26 of the 28 minutes ripping it to shreds. A lotus is not a Porsche.

[@millstonebarn]

I love my Emira, so am not going to comment on the review (others have said everything already), but it was reassuring to see someone else has experienced the same Apple Car Play issue with podcasts and navigation announcements that I have had, at 10:33, so hopefully this will be addressed at some point. It's a car for The Drivers, and it is totally awesome.

[@simonbussey7530]

The Evora had a higher rev limit (and more power). Are they holding off for an Emira S?

[@robertedwards7430]

Your inability to shift properly is the only thing that lacks flow.

[@Alex-dz6xw]

😅

[@ajcball]

Hmm... I have done the lotus track half day, and generally poked about one, but not driven one long term yet. I agree on track its great. Not as raw as say a caterham or exige, but really competent and awesome traction. I disagree on gear shift. Depends what you like, this has the notchy feeling a caterham has, rather than the much softer feel of a 997 c2s. I loved it and it would be a major plus point for me. Price wise, 50k in 2008 is probably 75k now, so its not silly priced. Used they are down to near 60k already. Id have this over a cayman, and any other 2 seater manual (ruling out a110 etc), unless i wanted a pure toy, then its caterham or elise time. So i think you are a bit harsh on it. Except the silly cup holder placement.... Oh wait, thats where it is on a 911 now as well.... 😂

[@pwolsey42]

Great review - especially the quirks! I 100% agree on the soft brake pedal hindering heel and toeing. Fortunately I have size 12 feet and I can just manage it. The lack of a frunk is OK given you get the space behind the seats. It’s a bit harsh calling out Lotus for basing the Emira on a car released in 2008 when Porsche have been reworking the Boxster/Cayman platform since the 90’s. Not to mention the 911 since the 60’s! Pricing is certainly the main issue and the fact that it was increased between the announcement and first customer deliveries was annoying. I’m looking forward to the first mid-life refresh - as with the Evora, I’m sure they’ll fix a lot of issues but they are unlikely to come down in price for the top specced cars. In Australia, due to demand, there is a A$50k price advantage in to the Emira over a GT4 so, weirdly, the Lotus represents OK value down under.

[@driven.videos]

Thanks for watching. You’ve raised many good points.

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

For me it wasn’t even the heel-toe issue, the brake pedal is just weird towards the top. Is that a deal breaker? No, but it’s so annoying when manufacturers get calibrations that wrong. Exige brake pedal feels 100% natural and the Emira has this weird bump on top? Or is it just the auto? (They didn’t have a manual for test-drive)

[@mentalmtb3104]

That whole early rev limit thing would really kill it for me I can't believe I would actually understand what you mean through a video but I do.

[@neilhallworth7438]

Yet there is a rev counter and a driver. Shouldn't a driver be able to read a rev counter and know when to shift up? There's an auto version for drivers who can't grasp this concept.

[@mentalmtb3104]

​@@neilhallworth7438you obviously grasp the concept of how to drive a car and maybe even drive it "fast" if you know that you can use all the rev counter but it is quite apparent you don't understand the concept of nice feelings, good feelings, things like flow, you obviously don't have any emotion or connection with you're cars which is fine but don't go commenting on a subject which you know nothing about

[@neilhallworth7438]

What a weird response. Its precisely why I drive with flow and awareness that I don't bounce off the rev limiter. What is "flowing" about driving into the rev limiter?

[@mentalmtb3104]

​@@neilhallworth7438The point he was making is that it's hard to find what feels natural and where the limiter is isn't where the car and engine leads you to believe

[@neilhallworth7438]

Sounds like excuses, not reasons. A driver not learning the car.

[@femidawodu5514]

Excellent Review for many reasons John! Mainly the sheer honesty in what the car is like to potentially OWN. It appears like a lot of people here are getting there "panties twisted" when a journalist is saying .."so long as you are willing to live with these idiosyncrasies on a $120k car"...etc. He decided to tell the truth about a car. Yes , its a lovely car and I was truly thinking of getting one in blue. However, I have been on the fence btw. this and a GT4RS. Ooooohh, it"s clear as daylight now!..The Porsche all the way. Don't get me wrong here but when you're spending over a $120k on a "real sports car . you want (in this day and age a high reving engine) windows that don't leak (maybe a trunk that does'nt leak water.)..Jesus!!, Really, with 2023 manufacturing standards...C'mon man! I mean the CARPLAY /ANDROID thing is annoying but I cld. live with that for awhile. However, many of the things John has commented on some journalist have "mildly" touched on. ..John just had the steelballs to address! In essence he is ..".Looking out for the driver". Heel-toe n'all! Thanks Big J!

[@driven.videos]

Thanks so much for watching and commenting. We certainly do our best to stay as balanced as we can. Many seem to have missed the point that we’re just trying to explain everything which does include (as with pretty much any car) a few negatives to go alongside the positives.

[@danielbarnett5953]

Having lived with one for 8mths,Pretty much all your supposed issues are either non issues or completely non existent. I say this as an ex gt4 owner. Bizarre review tbh.

[@markmattison9510]

Thanks very much for the review. I have no doubt now. 911 Targa here I come.

[@manuelpiston]

He reviewed this thing like he was comparing it to a Toyota Corolla. 😑😑 "OmG a SpoRtS CaR hAs No BoOt sPaCe"

[@Blas4ublasphemy]

Is it $10,000 to replace the clutch like the Evora? I wondered why all of those cars with Manuals transmissions for sale used seemed to have 50,000 miles....

[@spongesurf12]

Haven't gotten through the vid yet but while you are talking one year on, here in the US we have zero Emiras as of yet. I could be in the market for one, except with existing unfulfilled orders I'd probably not ever get one!

[@lbarbato6425]

I was interested in the Emira until I realised my M2 competition is faster, more brutal acceleration, more advanced drive train therefore, at 200K in Ozzie was an instant deal breaker. Pity, I love the sports look of the Emira but just a posse car.

[@chriscardwell3495]

Thanks for the review. It is much easier modyifing a well established design like an Evora . . . than producing a new design from scratch. I think the bad news items you highlighted about this early first edition were fair. I agree the price is too high but sadly there are not enough competitors. You were too generious about the audio system, an after-market company offers a range of upgrades for better sound quality.

[@ryhms8914]

You're getting a lot of crap for this review. As someone for whom this car would be a daily driver, the negatives you call out are meaningful and I appreciate be made aware of them. At $100k here in the US, this car would be a tremendous stretch for me so the option of keeping one as a weekend car or garage queen, just isnt an option. Lots I love about this car but the reality of owning one as my daily driver as me thinking hard about the Cayman as a potentially better option. Not as stunning visually and not as "special" perhaps, but overall more livabale. Others may be okay with the compromises of the Lotus, and I totally respect (perhaps even envy) that choice. Nevertheless, having it all out in broad daylight is the nost important thing. Thank you for that!

[@jsound95]

Can’t help but feel this review is biased to all things negative… I’ll number each point as to why. 1.) Wireless Apple CarPlay disconnecting - I’ve had Audi, bmw and Mercedes… they’ve all done this exact thing. My current 2021 Audi Q8 does this almost always 2.) middle speaker on dashboard reflective in bright light - Every car I’ve ever driven with a speaker on the middle dash does the exact same thing…? 3.) notchy and clunky shifter - I had the opportunity to test drive from my dealer when they received the press car and the gearbox was perfectly fine… I could shift it blind from 2nd-3rd and it would fall perfectly in place. 4.) rebodied or evolved evora - I saw someone comment on how porche has been evolving the 911 since the 60s… hit the head of the nail with that comment 5.) heal and toe - now this is a tough subject because not everyone has the same foot… I myself had no issue when I drove but then again I didn’t have to do any heavy breaking 6.) Engine sound at high rpm’s - you claim “it all starts to sound exciting” right before hitting the rev limiter… you can do a 3rd cat delete for less than $1,000 and you have an amazing sounding car… Everything else mentioned seems pretty valid like the wind noise from the frameless windows, and turn indicator not automatically cancelling… but then again maybe it’s just ray specific car and you got unlucky

[@shubsodhi5986]

My only complaint is, PRICE :( I can find a stingray 3lt z51 with manga ride on it for what this is asking. (Canada) But I do fancy the car, I just hope I can find one a few years down the road for a better deal.

[@squiretomasie7003]

I appreciate your opinion and the things you found as flaws I would too. But it is stunningly beautiful and makes the new Corvette look bad!

[@mrbliv102]

All of these quirks have work arounds I would be more than thrilled to have it

[@Aristocrafied]

The heel toeing I could probably get around. I've basically broken my ankle to do it on some cars and gotten used to it hahaha

[@murat2209]

It is Chinese... bad news? Whatever... I LOVE IT!

[@justaddafan]

60k pounds in 2008 is 99k in today's money. It's a better deal now than the Evora was.

[@Driv300mph]

18:16 Do you really expect the indicator to turn off with only 10-degrees of steering input? Have you ever driven a car that deactivates the indicator with such little steering input? No. That would be a flaw.

[@jp9782]

60k pounds in 2008 is equivalent to $100k in 2023. Still the best looking cheapest sports car combination.

[@Docinaplane]

Very fair review! It should have a manual emergency brake, not electric. Have you tried shifting with a large cup in the cupholder? I have an Evora GT in the States. I've driven an Emira, and the GT has better driving performance, especially with the mods I've done. I think the Emira was designed to bring new customers to Lotus, not for existing Lotus owners. I agree, it needs a 7,500 redline and 450bhp.

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

Yeah, feels 20-30% too catered to comfort and new customers. Seat should be lower and 30% tighter, steering could be 20% heavier, the brake pedal mimics this absurd calibration of all modern shitboxes that just make a rando feel they have strong brakes. Bit of a shame because it’s so close to being extremely good

[@Finkjam]

It’s a softer Lotus for the masses rather than the smaller crowd that loved and loves the Elise/Exige/Evora. Those I know with one absolutely love it, but I much prefer my Exige 410. Hopefully we get a hot Cup Edition at some point then a comparison to a GT4 will be fairer.

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

Test drove the Emira and Exige back-to-back, and you’re right, different planet - in feel. Performance even on track seems to be really good for the Emira too. But it feels like an X7 compared to the Exige, lol

[@infosuburb4299]

Agreed with the review. Driven the latest Emira and the GT4, it is not even a close comparison, anyone telling you different is lying. The GT4 has way more umph to it, more spirited driving experience, quality is WAY higher and let’s not even talk about the sound - they’re not in the same category. That being said, the Emira is a beautiful and lovely car to drive on the British roads, and for the price point it’s a really good buy, but unfortunately it falls short of Porsche (& that’s no blame, Porsche has had decades to perfect their cars) TLDR: It would have been nicer if Lotus gave this car more ‘umph’

[@axe2grind244]

In New York a Civic Type R is $65k+ so $100k for something amazing as this sounds like a bargain.

[@7markshark]

Your general meaning is right, it is in all a old construction with a new body and a very old engine and gear.

[@JH-qu8hi]

Is this review from 18 months ago. Everything he talks about is known.

[@driven.videos]

Cool! Thanks for watching

[@gcbadger]

Nah - can’t trust the opinion of anyone who has never heard of KEF!😂

[@blackgib07]

He says 'quite' quite a lot. Thanks for quite a good review.

[@cmiimages]

I wonder what this motoring scribe would say if he was driving a 1960s elan with all of its old school quirks? But hey, a well set up elan is one hell of a car to drive... gear shift click-click, brake with heel and toe, so easy, and that deep throat sound of weber's... so nice. So the Emira has a few quirks, what Lotus hasn't? Its really always about the drive.

[@FalcoBikes]

Re pricing, the Emira is actually MUCH prettier than the Evora. Some people will PAY for looks. Don't be surprised.

[@GoO0f]

Very good review - thanks!

[@driven.videos]

Thanks for watching!

[@jamesmay1322]

Just love all the comments along the lines of "it's a sports car all those foibles are excusable, it's how it drives and steers and handles that matters. It's not an SUV" etc. Yes true of course, but it's a CAR and first and foremost it has to function as a CAR. He pointed out two serious flaws with the Emira as a CAR, both relating to water ingress. Basically the car LEAKS! Now ok the boot problem isn't going to bother anybody that never drives their sports car in the wet, or ever makes use of the boot when the vehicle is wet, fine. But the fact that the passenger cabin windows do not fully seal is a major problem. A cabin that is not water tight lets in humidity and moist air, and if you live in a country like the UK and don't have a garage to keep the car in, then you are going to end up with an interior that get's mouldy. Trust me when I say that once a car interior starts suffering from mould that a) it's a pig to get rid of permanently and b) it won't matter a jot how great the steering feel is because you won't be driving the car to experience it. So yeah sure, the compromises such as lack of storage or low rev limit, idiosyncratic indicators or glare from an item on the dashboard are all forgivable because it's a sports car. But the leaks are very definitely NOT forgivable in ANY car, period. It fails at the very first hurdle of being a viable CAR, forget the rest.

[@stevewiley3832]

when you hand someone your phone to start recording but forget to clean the lens off first

[@scottcowan6798]

After having tested one.. I’d far rather have a later Evora.. which arguably looks better.. as a multiple Lotus owner or 24 years at 6ft 3 and 18 stone.. I just still manage to get into my Exige V6.. small price to pay for the thrill of driving it. You also sit too high in the EmIra. It’s a missed opportunity.. not a patch on a Porsche equivalent either... except on the looks front.

[@AlCurrey]

You miss the whole brilliance and beauty of the Emira and talk about insignificant points for this type of car. They are amazing as a drivers car.

[@AlCurrey]

Suddenly you could heel and toe perfectly when you were on the track and stopped worrying bout where to put your frozen peas!

[@alistairkittow3648]

For a start you have quoted the incorrect price for the V6 manual first edition and you keep going on about the Porsche which by the time you add on all the options that the Emira first edition comes with soon takes you into the mid £85k bracket. All the numerous complaints were real petty, eg the indicators for example when i test drove the Emira i could see the indicators pretty clearly and the audio sound it makes is quite clear (you did not have any music on so you must have heard it okay), All in all i don't think you wanted to like the car right from the start.

[@Natak222]

Its price will be the downfall. Hopefully they can find a way to bring these down to its original promised 60k price tag. Infact i’m already seeing 1st edition listing for £69k / 1k miles

[@jimmyjt16]

Down to 65k now. Already 20k off a new one.

[@ChrisPatrick-q6k]

He's not scared of turning the Fanboys hearts into Cheeseburgers.

[@johnmckenna4256]

Great review! thanks

[@Driv300mph]

7:13 Hits 73mph... "Didn't even get to 65 miles an hour there"

[@gbarton800]

Fair with criticisms but it felt like you had a bone to pick with Lotus.

[@grigorioschristodoulou5229]

The Porsche comparison is not valid anyway, the list price just doesn’t matter with Porsche. They didn’t even come with auto AC like 5 years ago. You can spec a GTS to 90k while half-asleep. That said, I wasn’t as impressed by the Emira as I anticipated (Sport chassis but on winter tyres). Very supple, veeery good interior but you sit a bit too high, the brake pedal is disgustingly springy up top for no reason and the power delivery is meh, up until the last 500rpm before the limiter kills the party, as you said. Drove the Exige right after, now that’s a proper driving experience.

[@hamomamo9867]

I agree with your review. I decided to get 911 instead, the car is a bit uncooked and does not worth the sticker price, yet looks amazing.

[@gerbel01]

Inflation between 2008 and now is 43%. Not to mention: you're comparing the original N/A car vs a supercharged one.

[@ChurchLane-ee2uc]

How many on Autotrader 😮. If you’re little then snap up an Exige before they’re gone.

[@gregrossi1125]

Did you try taking it to a dealership and telling them most of that can be fixed for zero cost…