Ariel gives mad Atom a light make-over

Thrill seekers take note: Ariel has a new Atom on the loose.

Badged the '3.5' - an evolution of the '3' in other words - it looks very similar to the outgoing model, the only difference being the new front lights.

Ariel has redesigned the bonnet too, though you'd be hard pressed to tell the difference.

The already-stiff chassis has been reinforced too - using the set up already employed by the V8 and Mugen special editions. New suspension parts should also give a "comfortably compliant" ride, along with improved traction and balance on the track.

Honda's revvy 2.0-litre iVTEC engine remains - supplying a heady 245bhp without a supercharger, or 310bhp with one.

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Instruments have all been changed too: a new digital LCD display has arrived too with - and we quote - "programmable gearshift lights". A data logger can also be added in order to record lap times, G forces and all sorts of other things to keep track day enthusiasts happy.

New items have been added to the option list too - something that's allowing Ariel to call themselves the "Saville Row of the automotive world".

We haven't been indulged with just what these personalised options may be, but as the whole car is effectively built around the individual buyer, we can't see much being out of bounds. Just don't ask them to fit a roof, obviously.

We know it's a much-viewed YouTube video, but we had to include a video of Clarkson in an Ariel in THAT episode of Top Gear.