Tiger Aviator, car review: Caterham rival shifts like a it's got a tiger on its tail

This is a great fun car, with surprisingly sophisticated handling and ride, and a look that really stands out

This is a more of a mainstream offering from Tiger

It certainly looks different to its competitors. But that is down to Tiger actually addressing the poor aerodynamics of this type of vehicle. Different can be better. And it continues to be different from the badging on. Tiger is a bigger name in the world of kit cars and budget sports cars, but this is a more of a mainstream offering.

Tiger Aviator

Price £21,995; Engine 4 cyls, 1998cc, diesel; Power 185bhp at 6800rpm; Torque 157lb ft at 6400rpm; 0-62mph 5.0sec (est); Top speed NA; Gearbox 5-spd manual; Kerb weight 580kg; Economy 34mpg (est); CO2 NA

With 185bhp and a kerb weight of a svelte 580kg, it’s no surprise that this thing shifts like it’s got a tiger on its tail. There are no official figures, but we’d be surprised if this didn’t get to 62mph in 5.0sec. Since you’re seated so low down, the whole experience is very in-your-face.

It’s no surprise that this thing shifts like it’s got a tiger on its tail

Power comes from the 2.0-litre Duratec engine, which is not a surprise, but the handling is a surprise. You might expect a rockily hard handling and ride but the handling is extremely pliant. Ride quality is really good, really quite comfortable, which isn’t something you’d expect in this type of vehicle nor at this price point. Yet handling is pin-sharp with excellent turn-in and traction front and rear.

It’s not as polished as things like the Caterham Superlight

The steering is good and so are the controls, although the cabin is perhaps not as well finished as the best in this class. That’s the thing. It’s not as polished as things like the Caterham Superlight, and the Aviator comes from a brand many won’t recognise. Yet this is a great British fun car, with surprisingly sophisticated handling and ride, and a look that really stands out. Try one and you’ll enjoy the sensation of grabbing a Tiger by the tail.