Lotus has confirmed the price and full specification of the all-new Emira V6 First Edition when it arrives in New Zealand next year.  

The car, fully loaded with a host of desirable technology, infotainment and comfort features plus unique badging, will be priced from $177,000.

Matt Windle, Managing Director, Lotus Cars UK, commented: "The Emira is the most accomplished Lotus we've ever made, and to celebrate and reward our keenest early customers in New Zealand, we want to make the first cars extra special to own. Our design team has carefully selected the features to make for a truly special and distinct First Edition."

The Emira is an all-new mid-engine premium sports car that perfectly embodies the ongoing transformation of the Lotus business and brand. It features all the hallmarks that the automotive world has come to expect from a Lotus – striking design, thrilling dynamic performance delivering best-in-class ride and handling, outstanding aerodynamics and an unrivalled experience 'For The Drivers'.

Building on the legacy of the Elise, Exige and Evora, the Emira represents a quantum leap forward for Lotus. The Emira has been developed on a new lightweight bonded aluminium chassis – technology pioneered by Lotus and which remains an intrinsic part of the company's sports car DNA.

Powering the V6 First Edition is a 3.5-litre supercharged V6 engine, mid-mounted behind the two seats. Developing 298kW, it's mated to a six-speed manual gearbox with a visible gear-change mechanism and hydraulic power-assisted steering. An optional six-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shift is also available. 

The car rides on 20-inch ultra-lightweight V-spoke forged alloy wheels. They're diamond cut to create a premium two-tone finish, though silver or gloss black versions are available as a no-cost option. Two-piece brake discs with branded callipers are part of the First Edition spec, plus a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS).