Evolution of BMW Engines: A Journey from Aero 8 to Supersport with Morgan Marks

Morgan is celebrating 25 years of fitting BMW engines to its cars, a partnership that began with the Aero 8 in 2000 and has since become a key component of the company’s lineup. To commemorate this milestone, Morgan has brought together 14 BMW-powered cars from the past quarter-century for a special display. This showcase aims to showcase the evolution of Morgan’s modern era, spanning from early V8 Aero models to the current turbocharged four- and six-cylinder range.

The journey began with the original Aero 8, which was unveiled in 2000 featuring BMW’s 4.4-liter M62 V8 engine. This collaboration not only added power to the car but also brought modern day-to-day usability and durability to the table, essential qualities for a low-volume sports car built using traditional methods.

Subsequently, Morgan transitioned to BMW’s N62 V8 family, incorporating a 4.4-liter version in Aero 8 Series 2 and Series 3 models, as well as the distinctive AeroMax. The anniversary display also includes the final chapter of Morgan’s V8 story, featuring the 4.8-liter BMW N62 used in later Aero models and the Plus 8.

Although the V8 era officially concluded with the last core-production Plus 8 in 2018, it was later commemorated with a limited run of nine motorsport-inspired Plus 8 GTRs in 2021. Six of these special cars are part of the anniversary group, highlighting Morgan’s dedication to naturally aspirated V8 power in a market moving towards other trends.

In 2019, Morgan marked a pivotal moment with the introduction of the Plus Six, powered by BMW’s 3.0-liter B58 TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine. This marked the first time an inline-six engine was used in a Morgan vehicle, as well as the company’s debut of a turbocharged powerplant. Alongside the B58 engine, Morgan also unveiled its all-new CX platform, boasting double the torsional stiffness of its previous aluminum architecture while remaining lightweight.

The B58 engine continued to play a significant role in Morgan’s lineup, powering projects like the Midsummer coachbuilt barchetta, a collaboration with Pininfarina. This exclusive model featured a unique design with production limited to 50 units, showcasing the versatility of the B58 powerplant.

In 2020, Morgan introduced the Plus Four, equipped with BMW’s 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder from the B48 family. This move not only continued the tradition of four-cylinder powertrains but also opened the door for Morgan’s return to the U.S. market. The Plus Four was homologated under the replica car rule of the FAST Act, allowing Morgan to recreate a model sold in the U.S. over 25 years ago.

Furthermore, Morgan collaborated with BMW to certify an engine package compliant with SPMV regulations for CARB states, featuring the SULEV-compliant BMW B46 engine. This strategic partnership ensured regulatory compliance while maintaining performance standards.

The latest flagship model from Morgan is the Supersport, unveiled in 2025. This model showcases a new design language, offering a contemporary interpretation of the classic Morgan silhouette while retaining the 3.0-liter B58 inline-six engine. The Supersport also debuts the evolved CXV platform, further enhancing performance and driving dynamics.

Racing has always been a significant part of Morgan’s heritage, with two of the 14 cars in the display focusing on motorsport. BMW engines powered the early Aero 8 GT racing program, including entries at prestigious events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Representing this racing legacy is a 2004 Aero 8 LMGT Le Mans entrant and a 2020 Plus Four race car developed in partnership with the University of Wolverhampton’s School of Engineering.

Over the past 25 years, BMW has supplied nearly 5,000 engines for installation at Morgan’s Pickersleigh Road facility, solidifying the company’s position as BMW’s longest-standing OEM engine partner.

This article showcases Morgan’s enduring partnership with BMW, highlighting key milestones, technological advancements, and the evolution of its vehicle lineup. Through innovative engineering and collaborative efforts, Morgan continues to push boundaries in the automotive industry while staying true to its heritage and values.