Morgan’s Supersport Is A Revolutionary Shift As It Appears To Be More Modern

Morgan recently announced an all-new flagship, the Supersport, to be released on March 11th. The Supersport name is not exactly new, considering the brand used it for the three-wheeler in the 1920s and the Plus 4 Super Sport FIA in 1963. However, this new Super Sport model represents an interesting evolution from the form aesthetically. Could Morgan reinvent itself to produce more futuristic-looking vehicles, and could it also embrace other technologies? 

As a brand, Morgan finds identity in its heritage. This is so much so that its models have had one design language over the years. Even the Supersport’s reveal will take place at Pickersleigh Road, Worcs, which has been its headquarters since 1914. However, there are indications that the SuperSport will be different. Unlike the traditional models emphasizing flowing fenders or vintage-type styling, it seems to have a sleeker stance. 

It retains the traditional horseshoe grille in front paired with circular lighting that looks larger than the Plus Six. Hence, the company claims it wanted to project a more contemporary aesthetic. Teasers currently indicate the Supersport has wider proportions and sharper aerodynamics, meaning it is more performance-oriented than previous models. The change is not just skin deep, either.

Morgan traditionally relied on BMW’s inline-four or six-cylinder engines. It will have a BMW 3.0 liter turbocharged engine producing 335 horsepower. There is no word yet concerning the transmission, though BMW did create a six-speed manual option for the engine in the past years. Alternatively, it could be matched to an eight-speed ZF transmission, and power will be directed to the rear wheels. 

Morgan’s architecture will also be built on the CXV bonded platform, which is said to improve the CX structure underpinning the recent Plus For and the Six models. Building on the foundation of the CX Generation platform with bonded aluminum, the CXV is meant to upgrade rigidity, performance, and weight efficiency. The platform has been constructed to be lighter and stiffer than the CX, allowing for better driving dynamics. This platform is also better suited than the CX in accommodating modern powertrains, so the 3.0-liter turbo would find better expression. 

Morgan has always been about evolution through gradual adjustment rather than revolution. The brand believes in refining models without losing the essence of its heritage. However, the changes are a bit amped up with the Supersport, as Morgan is trying to embrace a bolder or more forward-thinking strategy for making its cars. This shift is all but necessary, considering the direction the automotive market is taking toward sustainable energies.

Emissions laws are becoming stricter, so smaller manufacturers like Morgan are being forced to get their act together. A more tech or futuristic Supersport could be the beginning of a new direction for the brand. Morgan is also not the only niche brand that caters to nostalgic loyalists. They face competition from boutique brands like Caterham and Alpine, which are already pushing the boundaries of lightweight performance driving.

So, Morgan has to remain relevant in an increasingly competitive market. That said, they must tread carefully to ensure the new direction does not alienate their traditional fanbase. If the new Supersport, with its CXV architecture, still retains the analog driving feel and other handcrafted details, the consumer base will love it. Maintaining this balance could help Morgan keep one foot on its heritage while incorporating the future in its models. 

The Supersport still has some of the typical Morgan DNA, so it could serve as a blueprint for Morgan’s future models. Morgan will have to ponder a few things, like whether they could provide an EV or hybrid option, especially if the emissions regulations become so stringent that it makes business sense. Stranger things have happened, considering no one thought muscle car background models like the Mustang have created EV variants. It does not even have to be an EV outright.

Morgan can start with a hybrid and gradually build up to an electric vehicle. However, they would have somehow ensured an engaging, if not analog, driving feel. The Morgan Supersport is a bold step forward for a company rooted in tradition. That said, it is still more evolutionary than revolutionary, considering the model still has most parts of the brand's ethos.

A powerful engine, lightweight platform, and handcrafted feel are a nod to Morgan's faithful customer base. The slight differences in exterior and architecture, though, show Morgan is paying attention and possibly opening a new chapter to its story. 

Nicholas Muhoro is an automotive journalist covering car news and has a decade of experience sharing working at HotCars and TopSpeed. You can follow Nicholas on X and on LinkedIn to stay in touch and follow his news coverage at Torque News.

Image source: Morgan Press.