The Morgan Plus Four 2.0 TwinPower Turbo, launched in March 2020, represents a significant evolution in the iconic British sports car lineage. It’s the latest iteration of the Plus Four model, built upon a new CX-Generation platform – a bonded aluminum chassis designed to improve rigidity and reduce weight. This variant specifically utilizes BMW’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (B48 code), marking a departure from previous Morgan models that often featured Ford or V-twin engines. The Plus Four aims to blend traditional Morgan aesthetics with modern performance and technology, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a classic driving experience with contemporary reliability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Morgan |
| Model | Plus Four |
| Generation | Plus Four |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 TwinPower Turbo (258 Hp) |
| Start of production | March, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Roadster |
| Seats | 2 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 7.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 32.2 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 38.7 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 13.7 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 165 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 240 km/h |
| Maximum speed | 149.13 mph |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 254.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 2.9 kg/Nm |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 345.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 258 Hp |
| Power per litre | 129.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm |
| Torque | 258.15 lb.-ft. |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B48 |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 |
| Engine displacement | 121.93 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.25 l |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.55 US qt |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.62 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 1013 kg |
| Kerb Weight | 2233.28 lbs. |
| Length | 3830 mm |
| Length | 150.79 in. |
| Width | 1650 mm |
| Width | 64.96 in. |
| Height | 1250 mm |
| Height | 49.21 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Plus Four 2.0 TwinPower Turbo lies BMW’s B48 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a highly sophisticated unit featuring direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The turbocharger design minimizes turbo lag, providing responsive power delivery throughout the rev range. The engine produces 258 horsepower and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The engine is mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels. The standard transmission is a 6-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its engagement and driver involvement. While an automatic transmission isn’t currently offered for this specific configuration, it’s a potential future option given BMW’s extensive automatic transmission portfolio.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the lightweight chassis and the potent BMW engine results in a remarkably agile and engaging driving experience. The Plus Four 2.0 TwinPower Turbo achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 4.9 seconds, a significant improvement over previous Plus Four models. The manual gearbox is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, with gear ratios optimized for both spirited driving and comfortable cruising. The rear-wheel-drive layout contributes to a balanced feel, and the relatively low weight (1013 kg / 2233 lbs) enhances responsiveness. Compared to a hypothetical Plus Four with a less powerful engine, this variant offers substantially more acceleration and overtaking capability. It provides a more modern and accessible performance profile than the traditional Morgan experience, without sacrificing the core driving enjoyment.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Plus Four 2.0 TwinPower Turbo is positioned as the core model in the Plus Four range. Standard equipment includes leather upholstery, a wood dashboard, and a comprehensive suite of safety features. Customers can personalize their vehicles extensively through Morgan’s bespoke options program. Available options include upgraded audio systems, navigation, heated seats, and a variety of interior trim materials. Exterior options encompass different wheel designs, paint colors, and hood louvers. The emphasis is on creating a unique vehicle tailored to the owner’s preferences. The trim level is generally considered mid-range, offering a good balance of standard features and customization possibilities.
Chassis & Braking
The Plus Four utilizes Morgan’s new CX-Generation bonded aluminum chassis, which is significantly stiffer than the previous steel space frame. This improved rigidity enhances handling precision and ride comfort. The suspension features double wishbones at the front and a solid axle with trailing links at the rear. Ventilated disc brakes are fitted to all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, offering precise and communicative control. The relatively low weight of the vehicle contributes to reduced brake wear and improved overall handling balance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Plus Four 2.0 TwinPower Turbo has been well-received by automotive critics, who praise its blend of classic styling, modern performance, and engaging driving dynamics. The BMW engine has been lauded for its smoothness, responsiveness, and fuel efficiency (7.3 l/100 km / 32.2 US mpg). Compared to other sports cars in its price range, the Plus Four offers a unique and characterful alternative. While its performance is competitive, its primary appeal lies in its distinctive design and driving experience. Compared to a hypothetical Plus Four with a larger, more powerful engine, this variant offers a more accessible and balanced driving experience, with lower running costs.
Legacy
The BMW B48 engine is known for its reliability and durability, and is used in a wide range of BMW models. The bonded aluminum chassis is also expected to provide long-term structural integrity. The Plus Four 2.0 TwinPower Turbo represents a significant step forward for Morgan, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern engineering. On the used car market, these models are expected to hold their value well, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts seeking a unique and engaging sports car. The combination of a proven powertrain and a modern chassis suggests that this variant will become a desirable classic in the years to come.
