Morgan has officially entered a new era of performance. By breaking the 400bhp barrier for the first time in its history, the British manufacturer has transformed its flagship Supersport into a much more aggressive, driver-centric machine: the Supersport 400.
This isn’t just a minor tuning exercise; it represents a significant leap in power and engineering, positioning Morgan as a serious contender in the high-end enthusiast market.
Breaking Performance Records
The heart of the Supersport 400 is its BMW-sourced 3.0-litre straight-six engine. Through precision engineering, Morgan has boosted output from the standard model’s 335bhp to a commanding 402bhp.
This power surge yields impressive results:
– Acceleration: A 0–62mph sprint in just 3.6 seconds, outperforming the previous V8-powered Aero 8 by half a second.
– Power Benchmark: It is now the most powerful series-production car the Malvern-based firm has ever produced.
Precision Engineering and Handling
To ensure this extra power translates into control rather than chaos, Morgan has implemented a suite of mechanical upgrades focused on “intensity and deliberation.”
The Dynamic Handling Pack
Unlike the standard model, the 400 comes standard with the Dynamic Handling Pack. This includes:
– Adjustable Nitron dampers at all four corners.
– Revised suspension geometry designed to improve controllability without sacrificing the “approachable” feel Morgan is known for.
– Lightweight forged wheels paired with Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tyres for maximum grip.
Auditory and Tactile Experience
The driving experience is further heightened by a specially developed active performance exhaust, designed to provide a more purposeful and pronounced soundtrack. Inside the cockpit, drivers can opt for an anodized aluminium shifter to replace the standard BMW automatic gear selector, complementing a bespoke interior featuring Alcantara upholstery and custom instrumentation.
Market Positioning and Strategy
With a starting price of £112,965, the Supersport 400 is the most expensive series-production car in Morgan’s history. This price point places it in direct competition with high-performance icons like the Porsche 911 Carrera T, signaling Morgan’s intent to compete in a more premium, performance-heavy segment.
This launch is more than just a single model release; it is a strategic move. According to Morgan boss Matt Hole, the 400 is the first step in a broader expansion. The company plans to roll out a series of bespoke and limited-edition derivatives over the next 18 months, using the Supersport platform as a foundation for further evolution.
“The Supersport 400 stands at the pinnacle of our range and reflects the progress we are making as a business,” says Matt Hole. “It demonstrates how we can evolve our platform to increase capability in a way that remains distinctly Morgan.”
Summary
The Supersport 400 marks Morgan’s transition into higher power outputs and more sophisticated chassis dynamics. By combining BMW-sourced muscle with handcrafted British engineering, Morgan is betting that drivers will pay a premium for a vehicle that balances raw speed with intuitive, tactile engagement.
