New Morgan models have always been rare gems in the automotive world, often taking decades to evolve. However, the British marque has picked up the pace, ushering in a new era of innovation while staying true to its heritage. The latest example? The all-new Morgan Supersport. Arriving just six years after the Plus Six, this sleek, high-performance roadster introduces cutting-edge technology, a reimagined design, and an unwavering commitment to driving purity.
A New Generation of Morgan Performance
At the heart of the Supersport is the CXV platform, an evolution of Morgan’s acclaimed CX aluminum architecture. The upgraded chassis promises significant gains in handling, agility, and overall driving dynamics. Weighing in at just 1,170kg, the Supersport remains lightweight while benefiting from a 10% increase in overall torsional rigidity, rising to 20% with the optional hardtop installed. Structural improvements at key mounting points enhance both stability and responsiveness, ensuring a more refined yet exhilarating ride.
Morgan has also implemented a new steering rack with fewer universal joints, resulting in a purer connection between driver and road. Suspension travel has increased from 50mm to 80mm, providing greater compliance over uneven surfaces. Meanwhile, anti-roll bars now feature at both ends, boosting stability during spirited driving. Despite these enhancements, Morgan reassures enthusiasts that the raw, mechanical character of its cars remains untouched, only now with improved refinement and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
Enhanced Dynamics and Precision Engineering
One of the biggest talking points is the Supersport’s newly optimized aerodynamics. Morgan has meticulously sculpted the car’s silhouette, extending the tail for better airflow and reducing drag by 5%. Lift has been cut by 20%, and overall aerodynamic balance has seen a notable improvement compared to its predecessor. Underneath, advanced airflow management enhances stability at high speeds, reinforcing Morgan’s focus on performance.
For the first time, a Morgan features Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, selected for their exceptional grip and predictable behavior at the limit. These are mounted on the lightest cast wheels the company has ever produced. standard 18-inch alloys weigh just 10.8kg each, with optional 19-inch forged wheels shaving that down to 9.7kg. Further performance upgrades include an optional limited-slip differential and Nitron adjustable dampers, ensuring the Supersport delivers the sharpest handling of any Morgan to date.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the Supersport retains the tried-and-tested 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six engine from BMW, pushing out 340hp and 369lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, yes, the same one you’ll find in a BMW X3, the powertrain delivers relentless acceleration, with 0-62mph arriving in the low four-second range and a top speed exceeding 160mph.
While purists may have hoped for a manual option, Morgan insists the auto box complements the Supersport’s dynamic character. The car’s lightweight construction and enhanced aerodynamics contribute to its exhilarating speed and precision handling, positioning it as a serious contender against rivals like Porsche and AMG in the high-performance sports car segment.
A Contemporary Take on Timeless Craftsmanship
Despite its modern engineering, the Supersport retains Morgan’s unmistakable handcrafted appeal. The body panels are still meticulously formed from aluminum and mounted over an ash wood frame, a tradition that continues to define the brand’s identity. However, design elements have been refined, offering a cleaner, more minimalist aesthetic. The new LED headlights eliminate the need for additional pods, while the redesigned doors now feature hinges bolted directly to the chassis for improved rigidity.
Morgan has also taken a more practical approach with this model. The Supersport is the first Morgan in over a decade to feature a proper boot, making it a more viable option for long-distance road trips. The lightweight 19.7kg carbon composite hardtop can be installed in minutes by two people, offering flexibility between open-air thrills and a more enclosed grand touring experience.
Interior: Classic Meets Cutting-Edge
Inside, the Supersport strikes a balance between vintage charm and modern comfort. The cabin offers more space for taller drivers and features premium Scottish leather, enhancing both luxury and longevity. The dials, co-designed with Smiths, showcase a bespoke Morgan typeface, reinforcing the car’s exclusivity.
Tech integration is subtle yet effective. The Sennheiser sound system ensures rich audio quality, and Morgan claims that Bluetooth phone calls remain clear even at 70mph with the roof down, an impressive feat for an open-top sports car. Perhaps the most amusing yet practical update? The repositioned washer jets are now finally effective instead of creating an unintended water feature on the bonnet.
A New Era for Morgan
Morgan’s Managing Director, Matthew Hole, describes the Supersport as a statement of intent: “This flagship model represents the confidence and evolution of Morgan today. It embodies a perfect fusion of dynamic performance, contemporary design, and the timeless craftsmanship that defines our brand.”
Set to arrive in April, just in time for the first customer deliveries, the Supersport marks a pivotal moment for Morgan. With a starting price of £102,000, it aims to bridge the gap between classic British roadsters and high-performance European sports cars. Whether you’re a lifelong Morgan enthusiast or a newcomer considering an alternative to the usual Porsche or AMG, the Supersport promises an unforgettable driving experience steeped in heritage and innovation.
For those seeking an engaging, handcrafted sports car that blends tradition with cutting-edge engineering, the Morgan Supersport could well be the most exciting model to ever roll out of Pickersleigh Road.