Ariel Nomad, redesigned for a delightful adventure

The Ariel Nomad has undergone a full model change, with nearly every component of this unique off-road sports car altered in some way.

A more rugged derivative of the Ariel Atom, the original Nomad was unveiled in 2015 and arrived in the United States in 2016. According to Ariel's press release, this second-generation model, dubbed Atom 2, retains the skeletal appearance of its predecessor while featuring a new chassis, suspension, steering, brakes, electronics, bodywork, and interior, with customer feedback and recent changes were made based on development work.

The chassis retains the tubular construction of the Nomad, but torsional rigidity has been increased by 60% due to changes such as larger diameter main tubes and diagonal tubes. The wheelbase has also been extended by 1.8 inches, making it easier to get in and out of the car and increasing space.

In addition to the extended wheelbase, the track has been increased by 1.9 inches, which Ariel claims will improve high-speed stability off-road. In addition, the approach angle is 48 degrees and the departure angle is 64 degrees. According to Ariel, the new power distribution management system eliminates the need for multiple fuses, relays, and large fuse boxes.

While the first generation model was primarily powered by a Honda engine, the Nomad 2 is powered by a Ford 2.3-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder. A programmable engine map allows power output to be set at 260 hp and 283 lb-ft of torque, 302 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque, or 305 hp and 382 lb-ft of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual transmission or a Quaife six-speed sequential gearbox and limited-slip differential. Ariel claims a 0-60 mph time of 3.4 seconds and a top speed of 134 mph.

The new suspension system offers greater travel than the original Nomad setup, with K-Tech aluminum coilovers and Eibach dual-rate springs as standard, Öhlins TTX springs and dampers (external reservoir and 3-way adjustability) are optional. A more hardcore "full race" setup with Bilstein 2-stage remote reservoir shocks is also available.

The bodywork is minimal, as on the traditional Nomad, but is designed to manage airflow with available parts. The air intake on the Snorkel was designed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), and a header rail helps direct air into that intake. This rail also serves as a mounting point for a sun visor and additional LED lighting. Nomad always requires packing light, but Ariel claims that the available rack system can accommodate luggage, a spare wheel, and two bicycles.

The Nomad 2 starts at EGP 56,660 excluding tax in its home country. This equates to $72,808 at current exchange rates, although Ariel did not mention a release date in the US