A group of engineers and former race drivers in the UK are on the verge of establishing an entirely new vehicle segment aimed at performance enthusiasts who like to go off-road. The Essex-based team are creating a new vehicle called the McRae Enduro S-SUV or Super-Sports Utility Vehicle and the first prototypes are currently being tested by five-times British Rally Champion Jimmy McRae and his son Alister.

The new model is the creation of the two McRaes, former Ford Motorsport employee Barry Reynolds, and MDV Specialist engineer Christopher Bibb, reports EVO. Despite the ongoing testing, the first batch of cars has already entered production but these will primarily be used in motorsports – specifically the Pirelli McRae Enduro Trofeo rally.

The outfit will eventually launch more refined road going versions of the new S-SUV, but these aren’t due until late next year. The cars will cost upwards of $200,000 and most are expected to be sold to wealthy enthusiasts in the Middle East.