I suppose in normal motoring terms much of what Autocar reports is true or true-ish, but I don't feel they really get it. What's odd to me is that they 'got' the 3 wheeler and at its price point that has many issue too - no roof, heater, very noisy etc. etc.
I expect many are feeling a bit disappointed about the test - as an Aero 8 Mk 3 owner, I do agree with some of the comments but I absolutely love my car and having driven a new Plus 8 I know it's a great Morgan.
I do agree that the Auto box is not great (at least, to my tastes) and much prefer the manual albeit this is tricky and a slow gearbox while still being very satisfying when you get it right. If the auto really is quicker then what performance figures would a manual give - much slower than expected??
The ride on my Aero in many situations is fine, but I don't like the even lower profile tyres fitted to the latest cars - this does not help at all.
The steering issues are very over-stated to my mind, although there is an impact felt as a result of the electric steering pump responding to demand in all later Aeros and derivatives. The steering seems heavier in the new Plus 8 than my car, and that doesn't help either.
But to me the issues with (almost) no boot-space at all, the dashboard, the poor roof, radio siting, are all backward steps compared to the Aero and the price is simply too high.
Luckily, it does still look great, and as a replacement for an old Plus 8 I expect it's pretty good as long as you've got much wealthier.
I love all Morgans but sadly find the factory's performance quotes increasingly annoying and am a little unconvinced with the strategy on these higher priced cars.
