The price of a Lotus car varies dramatically based on the model, year, and whether it's new or used. For a brand-new model like the Lotus Emira, the final UK-sourced gasoline sports car, you can expect a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of around $85,000. On the opposite end, the all-electric Lotus Eletre hyper-SUV begins closer to $85,000 for the base model, with high-performance versions exceeding $130,000. Used Lotus prices are even more diverse, ranging from under $30,000 for an older Elise to over $100,000 for a well-kept, limited-edition Exige.
The core of the Lotus brand has long been their lightweight, driver-focused sports cars. The Emira is the direct successor to the Elise and Exige. Its price reflects its position as a premium, hand-finished vehicle with modern amenities while staying true to the brand's philosophy. The Eletre, however, marks a bold new direction into the high-performance electric vehicle (EV) market, competing with Porsche and Aston Martin, which explains its significantly higher entry point for the technology and luxury it offers.
When considering a used Lotus, the model's generation is the primary price driver. The now-discontinued Elise and Exige, famous for their aluminum chassis and supercharged engines, have a cult following. Their values are heavily dependent on condition, mileage, and model year.
| Lotus Model | Type | Typical Starting Price (MSRP/Used) | Key Factor Influencing Price |
|---|
| Lotus Emira | New Sports Car | ~$85,000 | Final ICE model, hand-built |
| Lotus Eletre | New Electric SUV | ~$85,000 | Base model; tech & luxury level |
| Lotus Evora | Used Sports Car | ~$60,000 - $90,000 | Later model years hold value well |
| Lotus Elise | Used Sports Car | ~$28,000 - $55,000 | Age, mileage, and overall condition |
| Lotus Exige | Used Sports Car | ~$45,000 - $100,000 | Higher performance; limited editions are prized |
Ultimately, your budget is the main factor. A new Emira or Eletre requires a significant investment, while the used market offers access to the classic Lotus driving experience at a much lower, though potentially maintenance-heavy, cost.
