2015 Morgan Aero 8 shows a host of upgrades to the Swiss crowds [w/video]
Tue, Mar 3 2015
Hidden beneath the vintage styling is an improved aluminum chassis with better torsional rigidity and an improved suspension setup. Power comes exclusively from a 4.8-liter V8 from BMW making 367 horsepower, and the Bavarian brand also supplies a new limited-slip differential to get power down at the rear. Buyers can choose between a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic gearbox.
At first glance, the latest Aero 8 bares all the hallmarks of Morgan's classic style with a long hood, prominent shoulders and short rear. The new version is exclusively available as a convertible, although, as these photos show, an optional hardtop is available. The aluminum body is also slightly altered with better aerodynamics up front, and the most obvious change comes at the rear where there's now a clamshell design.
The interior also received a new, though still retro-looking dashboard design, and Morgan is touting its improved air conditioning system that reportedly works better in hot weather. Buyers wanting to eschew some of the supple leather inside can opt for a set of carbon seats, instead.
With the introduction of the latest Aero 8, Morgan is ending production of both the Aero SuperSports and Coupe in April. Production of the new model then commences in the fourth quarter. Check it out on the Swiss show floor in the gallery above, and see the convertible in motion on some snowy British roads below.
Introducing the new Morgan Aero 8
Over 1250 Aero platform cars delivered since 1st generation launch in 2000.
New Aero 8 signifies return to soft top motoring within the current Aero range.
Significant changes to the aluminium chassis, suspension and vehicle aerodynamics.
Powered by a 4.8 litre V8 BMW engine producing 367bhp.
Available with 6 speed manual or automatic transmission (with paddle shift).
New Hand sculpted aluminium body and revised interior styling.
Largest options list of any Morgan sports car to date.
The Aero SuperSports and Coupe cease production in April 2015.
Production begins during quarter 4 of this year.
The 2015 Morgan Aero 8 makes its global debut at the 85th International Geneva Motor show, 15 years since the launch of the original Aero Eight. Significant visual and mechanical changes make the 5th generation of this iconic model the most refined Morgan Aero product to date.
Exterior
Styling of the new Aero 8 was influenced by classic open cars from the 1960s, reflecting a trend of long, fast and low shoulder lines and cabin focused body work. From above, the view echoes that of a boat deck, enhancing the sense of adventure and escapism.
A dramatic rear opening clam shell boot is used to both tension and hide the new double-lined mohair hood. Occupants are seated low in the vehicle, which in turn enables a sleek roof line and balanced vehicle proportions. The Aero 8 is available with an optional hardtop that transforms the car into a coupe with ease.
Interior
Passenger experience has been at the forefront of the design process. New dashboard arrangements, real wood surrounds, textured box-woven carpets and fine leather trim enhance the new interior. The introduction of a new air conditioning system ensures that the car is more usable in warmer climates, a reflection of Morgan's expansion into new markets across the globe. Optional touch screen media systems, low slung carbon seats and bespoke detailing packs add to Morgan's already extensive options list.
Dynamics
The aluminium chassis benefits from improved torsional stiffness, a revised front end, all new suspension, anti-roll bars and a new BMW limited slip differential. The driver benefits from a more responsive and better handling sports car. ABS (with EBD), power steering, cruise control and airbags add further passenger convenience and safety.
Summary
This, the most refined Aero product to date, is a fitting evolution of Morgan's most technologically advanced range of vehicles. The Aero 8 will enter production in Q4 2015 with limited production numbers available. Morgan tailors every car to align with the customer's personal vision. With infinite combinations of paint, leather and a vast array of detail choices, every Aero built will be a one-off.
"Morgan cars are synonymous with open top motoring. We produce 2-seater sports cars that are lightweight and exhilarating to drive. The new Aero 8 signifies a return to this formula within our flagship range of vehicles. The Aero 8 offers the perfect marriage of fine craftsmanship and performance technology, one that we believe is so important in today's increasingly autonomous world." - Morgan Managing Director, Steve Morris.
"This project presented us with an opportunity to evaluate and capture exactly what defines Morgan as a class leader in hand-making luxury British sports cars. Over the last 15 years the Aero Platform has successfully evolved both aesthetically and mechanically. Now on the 15th anniversary of the original iconic Aero Eight, it is incredibly exciting to have the chance to revisit the design with this knowledge in mind." - Morgan Head of Design, Jonathan Wells.
Over 1250 Aero platform cars delivered since 1st generation launch in 2000.
New Aero 8 signifies return to soft top motoring within the current Aero range.
Significant changes to the aluminium chassis, suspension and vehicle aerodynamics.
Powered by a 4.8 litre V8 BMW engine producing 367bhp.
Available with 6 speed manual or automatic transmission (with paddle shift).
New Hand sculpted aluminium body and revised interior styling.
Largest options list of any Morgan sports car to date.
The Aero SuperSports and Coupe cease production in April 2015.
Production begins during quarter 4 of this year.
The 2015 Morgan Aero 8 makes its global debut at the 85th International Geneva Motor show, 15 years since the launch of the original Aero Eight. Significant visual and mechanical changes make the 5th generation of this iconic model the most refined Morgan Aero product to date.
Exterior
Styling of the new Aero 8 was influenced by classic open cars from the 1960s, reflecting a trend of long, fast and low shoulder lines and cabin focused body work. From above, the view echoes that of a boat deck, enhancing the sense of adventure and escapism.
A dramatic rear opening clam shell boot is used to both tension and hide the new double-lined mohair hood. Occupants are seated low in the vehicle, which in turn enables a sleek roof line and balanced vehicle proportions. The Aero 8 is available with an optional hardtop that transforms the car into a coupe with ease.
Interior
Passenger experience has been at the forefront of the design process. New dashboard arrangements, real wood surrounds, textured box-woven carpets and fine leather trim enhance the new interior. The introduction of a new air conditioning system ensures that the car is more usable in warmer climates, a reflection of Morgan's expansion into new markets across the globe. Optional touch screen media systems, low slung carbon seats and bespoke detailing packs add to Morgan's already extensive options list.
Dynamics
The aluminium chassis benefits from improved torsional stiffness, a revised front end, all new suspension, anti-roll bars and a new BMW limited slip differential. The driver benefits from a more responsive and better handling sports car. ABS (with EBD), power steering, cruise control and airbags add further passenger convenience and safety.
Summary
This, the most refined Aero product to date, is a fitting evolution of Morgan's most technologically advanced range of vehicles. The Aero 8 will enter production in Q4 2015 with limited production numbers available. Morgan tailors every car to align with the customer's personal vision. With infinite combinations of paint, leather and a vast array of detail choices, every Aero built will be a one-off.
"Morgan cars are synonymous with open top motoring. We produce 2-seater sports cars that are lightweight and exhilarating to drive. The new Aero 8 signifies a return to this formula within our flagship range of vehicles. The Aero 8 offers the perfect marriage of fine craftsmanship and performance technology, one that we believe is so important in today's increasingly autonomous world." - Morgan Managing Director, Steve Morris.
"This project presented us with an opportunity to evaluate and capture exactly what defines Morgan as a class leader in hand-making luxury British sports cars. Over the last 15 years the Aero Platform has successfully evolved both aesthetically and mechanically. Now on the 15th anniversary of the original iconic Aero Eight, it is incredibly exciting to have the chance to revisit the design with this knowledge in mind." - Morgan Head of Design, Jonathan Wells.
Featured Gallery 2015 Morgan Aero 8: Geneva 2015
View 12 Photos
Related Gallery Morgan Aero 8
View 14 Photos
Related Gallery 2015 Geneva Motor Show Videos
View 25 Photos
- News Source: Morgan via YouTube
- Image Credit: Live photos copyright 2015 Drew Phillips / AOL
- Geneva Motor Show
- BMW
- Convertible
- Performance
- Videos
- 2015 Geneva Motor Show
- Morgan Motor Company
- morgan aero 8
By Chris Bruce
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