MG ZR 160
Rumour has it that if BMW had stayed in control of Rover, the MG ZR would never have appeared. The Midlands firm desperately wanted some sportier cars to appeal to younger drivers, but its German parent wouldn't allow it.
With a fresh look and a revised interior, the MG ZR is a more desirable package. But it's showing its age in some respects - notably a cramped cabin and dated profile. Still, the marketing that made it a hit, and the fact it's entertaining to drive, mean the ZR should remain the best-selling MG Rover.
Rumour has it that if BMW had stayed in control of Rover, the MG ZR would never have appeared. The Midlands firm desperately wanted some sportier cars to appeal to younger drivers, but its German parent wouldn't allow it. However, less than a year after BMW pulled out, a revitalised MG brand came to the fore - and it's fair to say that it saved the company.
The ZR has become Britain's best-selling hot hatch, and now there's a revised version available. The newcomer has been facelifted and given a restyled interior - but will that be enough to satisfy the UK's budget sports car fans?
Looks are critical in this market, and they were the previous ZR's master stroke, turning the fuddy-duddy 25 into a cheeky, low-slung Citroen Saxo VTR rival. Now, MG has applied a similar tactic to the new car. It gets a deep front bumper with mesh grille and lip spoiler, while the range-topping ZR 160 driven here also gains side skirts and a rear bumper extension. The overall effect is very attractive, with the exception of the clumsy, aftermarket-looking roof spoiler.
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The headlights have been modified to include two separate lamps behind a single lens, while the rear end has been smoothed off and the registration plate moved into the bumper. And although the ZR's side profile is becoming a bit dated, the standard 17-inch alloy wheels at least give it a sporting presence.
Inside, the changes are even more apparent. The dash gets circular air vents and a revised centre console with audio and ventilation controls, while the seat fabrics are improved. A standard alloy gearknob and leather steering wheel complete the neat look, but cabin plastics still feel low-rent compared to rivals'.
The driving position is an improvement, though. There's still no steering reach adjustment, but the pedals have been rearranged to give a lower clutch and a higher brake, answering one of the biggest criticisms of the old car.
On the road, the ZR has always felt assured, although it lacked the composure of larger MGs. In response, the firm has modified the steering and suspension - giving a chassis that feels much sharper, but still suffers from a harsh ride.
If you can live with that, the ZR is a rewarding driver's car - although the steering still isn't as responsive as in more focused rivals. Performance from the 160's 1.8-litre VVC engine is impressive, with the 0-60mph sprint taking 7.4 seconds, although the variable valve timing provides peaky power delivery. Lesser versions don't have quite the same muscle, but they cost significantly less - while the 160 is fun, we reckon the cheaper 105 and 120 models represent much better value for money.
One thing is for sure, however - the attributes which made the ZR Britain's best-selling hot hatch are still there in abundance. It has never been ahead of rivals in terms of ability, but it has in sales - and that's what's most important. If MG Rover keeps up its insurance deals and tempting finance packages, that could well be enough to see the ZR remain on top of the charts.
