Overall Rating |  |
ZR is a pumped-up Rover 25 with similar virtues and more shortcomings. Its MG badge is a plus but some think the 'look at me' body kit is too brash.
For
- Body styling looks the business
- Sharp driving responses and lively engines
- 1.8 VVC 160 is a true hot hatch
Against
- Lacks refinement due to engine and road noise
- What's a noisy turbodiesel doing in a sporty MG?
- Many models lack ABS
Road Test
Where the Rover 25 offers understated styling with a touch of class, ZR seems to be popping steroids. The muscle car styling isn't just for posing, though; MG tweaks have uprated the 25's already lively performance and enjoyable handling.
In ZR, even the 1.4 K-Series engine manages 0-60 mph in 10 seconds thanks to short, sporty gearing. This makes even the diesel versions entertaining to drive, with accurate steering and good grip. The 1.8 VVC puts out 160 bhp, rivalling the Ibiza 1.8 Cupra but falling short of the more charismatic Clio RenaultSport 172.
Compromises abound in the ZR. It's too big for a hot hatch supermini yet too cramped inside to line up against sporty small family cars. And it lacks the refinement of its Rover cousin due to its firmer suspension, rather noisy ride and loud engines. But it's good fun for not a lot of money.
Need To Know
NCAP: N/A
Best Models: 1.8 VVC 160
Worst Models: 2.0D
Replacement: 2005
Alternatives
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Star Ratings
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