Ariel Nomad 2 Goes Wild With 305-HP Focus ST Engine

Ariel Motor has unveiled the second generation of the Nomad, promising even more fun behind the wheel, no matter the terrain. The Nomad 2 may look familiar, but it’s actually a clean-sheet design, offering improvements in every aspect compared to the original 2015 model, including a new powertrain sourced from the Ford Focus ST.

The muddier and slightly less terrifying brother of the Ariel Atom retains the same wild, mechanical aesthetic. Exposed guts? Check. More room for muddy boots (and maybe even a friend)? You bet. “Almost unbreakable” body panels that are, hopefully, more aerodynamic this time around? Here’s to progress.

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Ariel claims that only three parts have been carried over from its predecessor, with everything else being new. The wheelbase is now 48 mm (1.9 inches) longer, and the tracks have been widened by 50 mm (2 inches).

Honda gives way to Ford powertrain

One of the highlights of the Ariel Nomad 2 is the adoption of the turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine from the Ford Focus ST, replacing the Honda-sourced powertrain of its predecessor.

This engine produces up to 305 hp (227 kW / 309 PS) and 518 Nm (382 lb-ft) of torque, thanks to an Ariel-specific ECU mapping with three selectable power settings. This makes it more powerful than the original Nomad, but less potent than the ultra-limited Nomad R.

The Ariel Nomad 2 (left) compared to its predecessor (right).

The mid-mounted engine features a new air intake system, a larger radiator, and dual air filtration to protect the intercooler from off-road debris. Fuel capacity has been increased by 40 percent to 70 liters (18.5 gallons), providing a driving range of over 550 miles (885 km) on a full tank of gasoline.

Power is transmitted to the rear wheels through either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed Quaife sequential gearbox, assisted by a limited-slip differential. According to the company, the 0-60 mph (0-97 km/h) sprint is completed in 3.4 seconds. The top speed is capped at 134 mph (216 km/h), which is quite thrilling for a vehicle without doors.

The thicker tubular chassis has a simpler design, resulting in a 60 percent increase in torsional stiffness. The double wishbone suspension comes standard with K-Tech coil-over aluminum dampers and Eibach dual-rate springs. Optionally, these can be replaced with adjustable Ohlins TTX dampers or Bilstein two-stage dampers with remote reservoirs.

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Brakes are 40 percent larger than before, with adjustable front/rear bias and a hydraulic handbrake. To make life easier for the driver, the Ariel Nomad 2 has an adjustable launch, traction control, and ABS systems. Depending on the use scenario, the model can be fitted with a range of different wheels and tires, measuring 16 or 18 inches in diameter.

Simon Saunders, Ariel Director, said that the Nomad 2 is a car that “can be driven to the shops, and the around a WRC rally stage”, adding that the guiding principle in its development was putting a smile on the driver’s face.

With over 100 options, the Ariel Nomad 2 is highly customizable, with each unit built to order by a single technician. Production takes place at the Ariel factory near Crewkerne in Somerset, UK. As for the price, the Ariel Nomad 2 is a costly toy, starting at £67,992 ($86,995).

Ariel Motor Company