Top Gear recently put the Munro M280 to the test off-road in the rugged Scottish hills, and the vehicle proved itself to be remarkably capable. This electric vehicle features heavy-duty construction and a drivetrain more akin to a traditional combustion 4×4 than many modern EVs, offering a unique blend of old-school ruggedness with cutting-edge electric technology.
Munro Vehicles, the Scottish startup behind the M280, has already received around 250 orders. While you can put your name down for one today, the exact delivery timeline remains unclear. As the number of electric vehicles excelling in off-roading grows, the Munro M280 stands out as an ideal silent go-anywhere machine. Without the engine noise and exhaust fumes of combustion vehicles, you get to fully experience the sounds and smells of nature. Plus, electric motors provide instant torque, making it easier to tackle even the largest obstacles.
The M280 channels rugged, almost military-like Land Rover Defender vibes, appealing to enthusiasts who want serious off-road capabilities combined with electric power. Top Gear associate editor Tom Ford took the M280 through challenging terrain to evaluate whether its surprisingly high starting price of $131,750 (£99,000) for the top-end version is justified.
Tom Ford believes the M280 is worth the price—not just for its impressive off-road prowess but also for its design philosophy. Unlike typical cars designed with planned obsolescence in mind, the M280 is built more like heavy-duty machinery. Munro emphasizes longevity, with a focus on durability over style. This approach appeals to buyers who prioritize capability and ruggedness over aesthetics.
The M280 is available in SUV, crew cab pickup, and chassis cab configurations. It offers a claimed “real-world” range of up to 170 miles on its 85-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery. Charging is relatively quick, with the ability to go from 15% to 80% in just 30 minutes. Additionally, Munro promises up to 16 hours of “off-highway use between charges,” highlighting its endurance in demanding environments.
While the M280 is a fully electric vehicle from the ground up, its drivetrain layout mimics a conventional combustion 4×4. Instead of having an electric motor at each axle or wheel—as seen on some off-road-focused EVs—the M280’s single motor is mounted under the hood and sends power through prop shafts and a transfer case. It features three locking differentials, just like true old-school off-roaders, to maximize traction across challenging terrain.
Under the hood, the M280 uses an axial-flux electric motor that produces 228 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque in the base model (M170). The upgraded version delivers 375 horsepower and 516 lb-ft, for those willing to pay extra. The top speed is electronically limited to 95 mph.
One of the standout features of the Munro M280 is its off-road geometry. It boasts an 84° approach angle, a 51° departure angle, and a 148° breakover angle, making it one of the most capable vehicles in its category—regardless of power source.
But does all this tech and capability truly translate into outstanding off-road performance? According to Top Gear’s test, the answer is yes. While the M280’s off-road focus means it may be less comfortable or refined than typical SUVs on paved roads, that’s not what this vehicle is about. Its purposeful design and serious capability make it inherently appealing to those who need a rugged, dependable EV for tackling the toughest terrain.
In summary, the Munro M280 is a bold statement in the electric vehicle landscape, combining the muscle and feel of a traditional 4×4 with the benefits of electric power. For buyers seeking durability, off-road excellence, and a focus on long-term utility, the M280 is certainly worth considering.
https://insideevs.com/news/776972/munro-off-road-top-gear/
