The classic design elements are thoughtfully reimagined, bringing a fresh and strikingly modern aesthetic to the forefront. This fusion of innovation and heritage creates a masterpiece that pays homage to the past while confidently stepping into the future, delivering a car that is both timeless and cutting-edge.
The 2024 Morgan Midsummer represents the newest addition to a whirlwind of innovation and development that Morgan Motor Company has embarked upon over the past five years. This pace of change is unprecedented for the storied British automaker, which was founded in 1909 and has long been known for its deliberate, almost timeless approach to vehicle manufacturing. Historically, Morgan operated on its own timeline, largely unaffected by industry trends or the relentless march of technological progress.
For decades, Morgan's flagship model, the Plus Four, exemplified this philosophy. Until 2019, it was constructed on a ladder frame steel chassis, a design that had remained virtually unchanged since 1936. Additionally, the car's sliding-pillar front suspension, a hallmark of Morgan engineering, had been a constant feature in nearly every model since 1910. This adherence to traditional craftsmanship and design principles made Morgan's vehicles unique, beloved by enthusiasts for their classic charm and anachronistic appeal.
The past half-decade has seen Morgan embracing change like never before. The 2024 Midsummer is a testament to this new era, blending the company's rich heritage with cutting-edge engineering. This vehicle is not just a continuation of Morgan’s legacy but a bold step into the future, offering a modern reinterpretation of the brand’s iconic design language. It symbolizes the company’s commitment to innovation while still honoring the timeless qualities that have defined Morgan cars for over a century.
What sets the Midsummer apart from all other Morgan vehicles is its distinction as the first model in the company’s 115-year history to be designed in partnership with an external coachbuilder. This groundbreaking collaboration is with none other than Pininfarina, one of the most legendary names in automotive design.
The origins of the Midsummer can be traced back to September 2022, when designers from Pininfarina visited Morgan’s quaint factory on Pickersleigh Road, Malvern Link, England—a site where Morgan cars have been crafted since 1918. The foundation for this historic design partnership was laid during a dinner with Morgan's design chief, Jonathan Wells, at the local Nag’s Head Pub. The collaboration was solidified two months later during a pivotal meeting in Turin with Pininfarina executives.
Morgan has no plans to collaborate with Pininfarina on another vehicle. However, CEO Massimo Fumarola states that the Midsummer introduces a new design language that will distinctly set apart the top-tier Plus Six from the four-cylinder Plus Four in the years ahead. Essentially, the upcoming generation of Plus Six models will incorporate design elements from the Midsummer, while the Plus Four will continue to evolve Morgan’s traditional aesthetic.
The Midsummer’s design framework enables us to create 'high-shoulder' vehicles—those without the classic cutaway doors," explains Jonathan Wells. This innovation opens the door for future Morgan models, including coupes, four-seaters, and even a shooting brake. These upcoming cars will blend modern features with vintage-inspired visual charm, much like the Midsummer itself.