2023 Lotus Emira V6 First Edition

The Lotus Emira occupies a singular place in the brand's history as the last internal combustion-engined car Lotus will produce, giving this V6 First Edition a significance beyond its specification sheet. Powered by the Toyota-sourced 3.5-litre supercharged V6 producing 398 bhp, and paired with a six-speed manual gearbox, it represents the most driver-engaged configuration in the Emira range. The First Edition was Lotus's launch trim — comprehensively equipped from the factory — and the yellow exterior is precisely the sort of bold colour choice that suits a car with this lineage.

With 14,339 miles from a single owner since new, this is a well-run-in but far from tired 2023 car. The specification includes a KEF 10-channel 340W audio system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated seats, single-zone climate control, and Lotus's Convenience Pack adding front and rear parking sensors with a reversing camera. Bluetooth is fitted for hands-free use. Euro 6 compliant, so no restrictions in clean air zones.

The performance numbers are straightforward: 398 bhp, 4.3 seconds to 60 mph, and a 180 mph top speed. What they don't capture is the manual transmission's role in preserving the tactile connection that Lotus has always prioritised — the automatic Emira is a different proposition. For those after the last true analogue Lotus sports car, the V6 manual First Edition in this spec is the configuration worth seeking out.