MG Rover has released teaser photos of the much-needed replacements for the Rover 45 and MG ZS. The cars will be officially launched at the 2004 British Motor Show (tagged "Motor Show Live!") where we will get to check out the new interior as well as the facelifted exterior.
Though the pictures released only show the new nose designs, we have been promised the following changes to the exterior:
- New front bumper (including integrated front splitter on the MG ZS)
- New larger front grilles
- New twin lens reflector headlamps
- New rear bumper design
- New tailgate/boot lid
- Remote key-fob activated boot-opening release
- New lip spoiler (as standard fit on all models, though more subtle on the Rover 45)
- New 17" alloy wheel (standard on ZS 180, optional on other models)
- New 16" alloy for the Rover
- New ZS 180 body kit – wheel arch spats, sill mouldings, fender vents
Perhaps in more need of an update is the interior:
- Attractive new fascia incorporating rotary air vents
- New fascia console with new soft-touch membrane switches
- New column stalks
- ATC air conditioning
- New seat fabrics and door casing inserts
- New fascia insert treatment – a Technical Grey finish in the MG ZS
- Master locking switch and 'driveaway' locking for occupant security
Prices for the MG will range between £11,295 and £17,300 in the UK, with the Rover 45 price ranging from £9,995 to £16,200.
The Car Enthusiast is already a fan of the
MG ZS 180 so we look forward to driving the new version later this year. More images should be available towards the end of April. To view the Rover 45 photograph,
click here.
Shane O' Donoghue - 13 Apr 2004
