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MG ZR Review & Road TestReview by www.new-car-reviews.co.uk
Summary The MG ZR is a heavily reworked version of the Rover 25 and the engineers have done an excellent job of tuning this ageing chassis to deliver very credible hot hatch performance. The restyled Rover 25 is clearly targeting the younger Max Power fraternity, cars come with 17 inch alloys, aggressive looking grilles, brake discs all round, sports body kit and a choice of lurid colours. Under the skin the new cars suspension and chassis have been significantly modified and it now offers a very engaging driving experience, steering is direct and provides good feedback for a front wheel drive car, body roll is well under control and there is plenty of grip through the 17 inch tyres. Surprisingly the ZR still manages to deliver a reasonable ride over uneven surfaces. Engine choices include three petrol and two diesel engines, at the top of the petrol range is the 160bhp 1.8 litre VVC unit that delivers genuine hot hatch performance (0-60mph in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 131mph). Apparently MG have reduced the amount of soundproofing in the ZR to make for a more involving drive (and to shed weight we assume). Although they have accomplished their objective the ZR is not a particularly refined companion on longer motorway journey - wider tyres contribute to road noise, low gearing required to deliver performance contributes to engine noise. Earlier models were criticised heavily for the poor quality of the cabin, in terms of materials, finish and general layout. Newer models have gone a long way to addressing these issues although controls could be more logically placed. Practically the car can accommodate four adults and the boot is of a reasonable size and can be extended by folding the split rear seats. The ZR has been a reasonable market success and is a sought after second hand purchase, so residual values are quite good. The MG ZR has not been NCAP crash tested so the results below are for the Rover 25. NCAP safety and security test Review ©2006 New-car-reviews.co.uk Do you agree? Do you disagree? Click here to submit your own review of the MG ZR >> |
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