Geneva Auto Show : Morgan 3 Wheeler Review

Formally announced last fall, a production version of the new-gen Morgan 3 Wheeler highlights the boutique automaker's stand in Geneva. Boasting the same adventurous character initially see in predecessors that Morgan turned out in various forms from 1909-1956, this modern day remake brings a new level of mechanical sophistication to the mix along with making the formal transition from "Threewheeler" to "3 Wheeler."

With organically contoured bodywork patterned after a vintage aircraft fuselage wrapped around a steel tube frame, the new Morgan 3 Wheeler rides on chassis bits developed in house by the same engineering group that designed underpinnings for the upcoming Morgan EvaGT. The aeronautic theme recurs in the controls and instruments found in its leather-lined two-place cockpit, while a pair of fixed roll hoops add protection.

First-year production versions of the 2012 Morgan 3 Wheeler will be fitted with a fuel-injected V-twin engine from S&S Cycle that makes 115 horsepower and deliver lots of low-end torque. Those ponies will pass through a Mazda-sourced five-speed manual transmission and back to the rear wheel via a robust V-belt. With its estimated 1,100-pound curb weight, it's projected to click off 0-60 mph sprints in about 4.5 seconds and have a top speed of 115 mph.

Officially classified as a motorcycle, the 2012 Morgan 3 Wheeler meets all safety regs for both the UK and the U.S. Sales on both sides of the Atlantic are set to start sometime this summer with pricing set to open around $40,000 (£25,000) in Europe and likely a bit more here. Morgan also plans to offer a fairly comprehensive suite of personalization items for its retro newcomer, including loads of polished components, special paint and leather trims and a variety of graphics packages.

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