Is the Ariel Nomad 2 the most fun you can have on four wheels?

Somerset-based Ariel Motor Company has announced an all-new version of its Nomad off-road buggy.

Embodying the extreme utilitarianism the company has become famous for, the new vehicle is simply named ‘Nomad 2’.

Only three parts have been carried over from its Nomad predecessor. Ariel has completely redesigned the lightweight machine, with a new engine and a stronger chassis.

Strong and light

Ariel has given the Nomad 2 an all-new tubular frame chassis, with larger diameter metalwork to boost torsional stiffness by more than 60 percent. 

Getting in and out of the Nomad should be easier than before, thanks to a longer wheelbase and larger chassis opening. Integrated roll-over protection and a full safety cage come as standard.

The Nomad 2’s bodywork remains a minimalist affair. Toughened polythene panels help reduce kerb weight to just 715kg.

New K-Tech coil-over aluminium dampers and Eibach dual-rate springs are used for the suspension. Ariel has also improved the approach and departure angles, aiding the car’s off-road ability.

Turbocharged Ford power

Honda engines have been discontinued for the Nomad 2. Instead, Ariel has turned to the Ford 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, best known for powering the Focus ST. This provides up to 305hp and 382lb ft of torque with a switchable ECU. 

Given the Nomad 2’s lightweight design, the 0-60mph sprint takes just 3.4 seconds, with a top speed of 134mph. 

Air is fed to the Nomad 2’s intercooler through a snorkel-style air intake. This is located above the cockpit to ensure the cleanest supply of fresh air.

A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, with Ariel’s own six-speed sequential transmission as an option. There is also a hydraulic handbrake, featuring a huge WRC-style lever for maximum drift thrills.

Ready to order now

The no-nonsense approach continues inside the Nomad 2. A pair of lightweight bucket seats are compatible with racing harnesses. 

There is also a full-colour digital dashboard display, incorporating shift lights and the potential for data logging.

Prices for the Nomad 2 start from £67,992, and customers can choose from more than 100 options for individual customisation.

Nomad 2 production will commence shortly at Ariel’s factory in Crewkerne, where it will be assembled alongside the Atom 4, Atom 4R, and Dash e-bike.