MG ZT 190

Adding flash to dash – British elegance turns slightly hooligan

Based on the stylish Rover 75 sedan, the MG ZT 190 is a bit of a hooligan car capitalizing on the need amongst a select group of buyers for a high-performance car that retains all the credentials of the model it is styled on, but adds some visual appeal and sound effects to the mix.

While essentially a Rover 75 on steroids, the MG ZT is a car in its own right and wishes to take on other not-so-mainstream hooligan contenders in the market for a place in the sun – names that come to mind are the Honda Accord Type S, Chev Lumina, Ford Mondeo SVT, Mitsubishi Lancer, (new) Saab 9-3, even the odd Subaru.
What these cars have in common is that they stand slightly outside the traditional medium segment of the market and offer a bit more spice for buyers wanting the style and sophistication of their mainstream counterparts, but with a bit more flash to add to the dash. This segment of the market is small and comprises few annual sales, but is nonetheless an important one as it satisfies the needs of a select buyer that wants to be different, and can afford to be so. For manufacturers, in turn, it is important to capitalise on the image-building spin-off of offering these models.

Concept & Styling
Stylistically, the MG ZT is a Rover 75. Dynamically, it got a significantly beefed up suspension with skirts, spoilers and scoops to match the go of the tuned 2.5-litre V6 engine. Many may not like the rounded shape of the 75/ZT, saying it lacks character, but it is aerodynamic and retains the classic three-box layout of traditional sedan cars. The ZT is now the MG flagship, heading up the performance line-up of other coveted models like the TF roadster.

Ambience & Ergonomics
Inside, the ZT is pure 75, bar a few exceptions, notably the absence of the wood and chrome trim that lends the 75 the classic, stately character so coveted by lovers of British automobiles.