MG ZT Introduced By MG Rover Group

MG's latest ZT range delivers a modern presence and sports character

MG Rover Group announces a revised and more stylish new MG ZT range, for dedicated sports enthusiasts. The range encompasses a choice of modern saloon and estate cars, with in-line 4-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines. New alloy wheel designs, instrumentation, seat fabrics and traffic management systems combine to increase specification, excitement and value of the latest ZT range.

Key visual changes focus naturally on the modernised MG character. The aerodynamic front bumper integrates a new MG radiator grille and new halogen projector headlamps generate a prominent identity. A clean surfaced new rear bumper extends the modern theme, with centrally placed model badging above.

Sales of the MG ZT saloon and ZT-T estate were up 28% in 2003, over 2002.

Rob Oldaker, MG Rover Group’s Product Development Director, commented: "The MG ZT is an accomplished driving experience range-wide, be it the ZT 120, with its lightweight K Series engine to the 260 V8 with its wonderful soundtrack and awesome 410Nm of torque. The experience is always a thrill. Enthusiasts and determined business individuals will each be inspired by the charismatic dynamics that are available and the new sleeker design that provides a poise of real sporting definition."

Exterior design summary The new ZT design captures a fresh spirit of style, perpetuating a lineage that can be traced from legendary MGs to the latest MG XPower SV super coupe. The stylish, integrated and more prominent MG grille is clearly DNA linked and set between standard fit, new halogen projector headlamps. Driving lamps and directional indicator repeater lamps are positioned low within the front bumper, which carries a profiled aero lip spoiler along its lower edge.

Interior summary MG ZT models carry a distinct interior environment, combining body-hugging sports seats and a clear fascia layout, now using a special Technical Grey finish. Black Oak treatment on the fascia and console is a new option, complemented by a Black Oak wood steering wheel. Burr Walnut can also be specified. New instrument graphics are now backlit illuminated in blue.

120, 160, 180 Sports Auto, CDTi and 190 models feature a new ‘Summit’ fabric sports seat. Black leather trimmed sports seats are standard on SE derivatives. Rear passenger entry, egress and accommodation are improved with better foot and knee clearance from re-profiled seat cushions and squabs.

A leather and alloy gearknob, centre armrest with central storage, pollen filter and air conditioning are standard, with TrafficMaster Traffic Alert and TrafficMaster Smartnav navigation a UK model option.

Technical specification and performance figures are unaffected by this new model evolution.

2004-01-27 Please quote Autoindex.org if You use this news article!