To be enjoyed at a more sedate pace is the new removable glass roof panel, which can be whipped out in a matter of seconds and stored behind the seats.
Yet it’s the changes under the skin that really define this car’s character. For starters, the familiar Mercedes-AMG 2.0-litre turbo four has been treated to a software tickle. The result is power and torque outputs of 416bhp and 369lb ft, increases of 16bhp and 15lb ft respectively over the Emira Turbo SE.
As standard, the suspension gets bespoke Bilstein dampers and a ride height that’s been dropped by 5mm. However, all the test cars on the launch event were fitted with the optional Lightweight Handling Pack, which offers a 25kg saving over the standard Emira.
This drop in weight comes courtesy of a titanium exhaust, a lithium ion battery and a carbonfibre louvred engine cover. Crucially, this upgrade also adds Multimatic dampers complete with trick spool valving and 11 clicks of adjustment.
Climb aboard and you will spot bespoke trim materials smattered around the snug, richly finished cabin, but it’s the new, longer, carbonfibre gearshift paddles that you will appreciate most, especially for their more positive, click-clack action.
Pointing the Emira’s nose at the Hethel test track, I quickly discover a tireless, rapid and engaging circuit machine. With the dampers set to nine, it corners fast and flat but with enough body movement to help me build an accurate picture of the available grip. The hydraulically assisted steering remains fast without being flighty, plus it combines just the right amount of heft with a delicious tactility.