Ariel has launched a new version of the Nomad off-roader with more power and a tarmac-spec chassis setup, called Nomad R.
Just five examples will be built, all by hand and by one engineer. It has a starting price of £64,500 (excluding VAT), which is roughly £30,000 more than the standard Nomad.
Unlike the standard model, which features a 2.4-litre Honda K24 engine, the R is powered by tuned version of Honda’s K20Z3 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, which has been fitted with a Eaton supercharger, a stainless steel exhaust, an improved fuel injection system, new coil packs and a water-to-air intercooler.
Power and torque stands at 335bhp and 330Nm respectively – which is 100bhp and 90Nm more than the standard Nomad. As the engine is mated to a six-speed sequential gearbox, Ariel has improved on the Nomad’s 0–62mph time, too, with a new figure of 2.9 seconds.
Ariel says the Nomad R’s gearbox is identical to those used in tarmac rally cars. It’s supplied by the transmission specialist Sadev, weighs just 38kg and features an integrated oil pump, dog ring engagement and straight-cut gears. The standard rear differential has also been swapped for a limited-slip unit.
It features new lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels, stickier Yokohama tyres, as well as two-piece disc brakes with four-piston calipers. The car’s suspension geometry is the same as the standard Nomad, although there’s a new set of adjustable Bilstein dampers.
Save for some special edition decals and a unique build series plaque, the Nomad R’s styling is identical to the standard car’s. It shares the same non-structural composite body panels and exposed tubular frame – and buyers can choose from a list of optional extras that includes side panels, aero screens, a heated front windscreen and a high-level brake light.
What do you make of the new Ariel Nomad R? Let us know in the comments section below…