Aventador S

Segment
Coupe

We've had to wait some time for Gordon Murray Automotive's new supercar but here it is. Late last year, the first official image of the T.50 was revealed along with details surrounding its ultra-advanced aerodynamics. Murray, of course, designed the iconic McLaren F1, so expectations for the new T.50 are understandably high.

Not only does it look like a fighter jet for the road, but many of the T.50's numbers are startling: a curb weight of just 2,174 pounds, a price of £2.36 million (about $3.08 million) before taxes, and a 3.9-liter V12 that can rev to a stratospheric 12,100 rpm. Even the V12 in a Lamborghini Aventador S can't scale those lofty heights.

With a weight far less that of the typical supercar, this helps to provide the T.50 with an unmatched driving experience. But, despite 654 horsepower and 344 lb-ft of torque from its naturally aspirated engine, the automaker insists that it isn't chasing top speed or power records, but has designed the T.50 to be the best-driving car it can be. The V12 is paired with an Xtrac six-speed manual transmission.

It's the chassis and body that endow the T.50 with its unbelievably low weight, though. Both are made from high-grade carbon fiber, while the carbon tub monocoque offers super torsional rigidity.

Aerodynamically, the company has left no stone unturned. A 15.7-inch rear-mounted ground-effect fan featuring active underbody aerodynamics pairs with two dynamic rear spoilers. The fan and its ducting system optimize airflow both beneath and over the T.50's body. Six unique aero modes make it possible for the supercar to reduce drag by 12.5 percent or boost downforce by 50 percent. In V-Max Boost mode, the T.50 can produce 690 hp for short bursts.

Despite so much going on beneath the surface, the T.50 isn't as outrageous in its appearance as, say, a Lamborghini, and that's intentional. "Next-level aerodynamics allow us to avoid the current supercar trend for exaggerated wings, vents, and ducts," said Murray. The remotely-released dihedral doors do evoke some theater, though.

It's not a big car at all, with a compact footprint said to be similar to that of a Porsche Boxster. Forged alloy wheels measuring 19-inches at the front and 20s at the rear are fitted, and details like the notably sculpted rear deck provide more visual signs of aerodynamics being integral to the car's shape.

Inside, the central driving position is the very definition of a "driver-focused cabin", and it's flanked by two smaller passenger seats.

Once again, the company has bucked trends like large touchscreens in favor of a focus on the driving experience. An analog rev counter is used and there are no column stalks. You do, however, get a 10-speaker audio system and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.

With its relentless focus on driving enjoyment, the T.50 sets itself apart from every other supercar; it's a privilege only 100 customers will be lucky enough to experience. "I believe no other company could deliver what we will bring to market in 2022; producing this British supercar will be my proudest moment," said Murray. Considering his resume, that's some statement.