Morgan’s are mostly hand-made exclusive sports cars that have a distinct vintage vibe along with clinging onto the foundations on which we love cars in the first place. A Morgan is a back-to-basics two-seater with a simple ethos of going fast. However, the newest Morgan is something we did not expect as it is something of an off-road maverick. It is a Morgan sportscar but also has the ability to go over any terrain with the same driving experience. The Plus Four CX-T is based on the CX-Generation platform, which was launched in 2019 and underpins the production model Plus Four (and Plus Six).
For this project, Morgan partnered with Rally Raid UK who is the creators of Dakar race cars. The core structure of the car has been toughened with a new suspension to tackle the roughest of terrains along with a ground clearance of 230mm. The wheel arch apertures have also been modified, allowing the suspension to compress deep into the wheel well too. EXE-TC Coilover assemblies with internal bump stops are used, these have been developed by EXE-TC specifically for the vehicle.
These assemblies are born from the off-road competition and are calibrated to provide the ideal balance of compliance and durability. In addition to the main suspension hardware, the lower suspension arms contain bespoke bushes which further increase durability. A five-piece underbody protection system – comprising an engine guard, rear chassis guard, mid-section shield, and rear undertray help you in case things go awry. The car is also fitted with a full bespoke exhaust system with a rear side exit that improves the departure angle and contributes to 230mm of ground clearance.
The Plus Four CX-T uses a BMW X-Drive electronic differential with bespoke software. Switches inside the cabin allow a choice of three modes to be selected depending upon the driving conditions; each mode varies the degree of differential lock that is applied. Selecting ‘Road’ mode fully opens the differential, while the ‘All-Terrain’ model applies approximately 45% lock to the rear differential, allowing some variation torque distribution between the rear wheels. ‘All-Terrain – Extreme’ mode fully locks the rear differential, providing equal torque to both rear wheels.
The car also looks purposeful while still having the traditional Morgan silhouette. The exterior of the Plus Four CX-T has also been designed to maximize luggage and equipment carrying capacity, and provide occupant protection- something necessary for extreme environments that its owners will likely drive the car in. You can also carry bikes and surfboards while the removable side screens can be mounted onto the roof of the vehicle.
Just eight vehicles will be built, priced at $236,500 USD plus local taxes, and supplied in the full overland specification, with each customer having the opportunity to work alongside Morgan’s design team to specify their own CX-T. Surely, a more tantalizing prospect than a garden variety SUV.
