MG goes to Extremes

MG Rover has unveiled "Extreme" versions of its MGF roadster and proposed ZT sedan - based on the Rover 75.

The MGF Extreme is powered by the turbocharged 2.0-litre engine used in the MG Lola Le Mans sportscar entry, which develops around 330kW yet it is road legal.

The mid-engine roadster will also feature reformed bodywork with aerodynamic aids, modified suspension components and larger alloy wheels to enable it to cope with the massive power increase - up more than 200 per cent from the 108kW, 1.8-litre VVC model.

"The Extreme models will see MG bursting sensationally into the highest echelons of the performance car scene, producing cars that have until now only been our wildest dreams," MG Sport and Racing product development director Rob Oldaker said.

The ZT Extreme will have even more power than its roadster sibling with a highly modified 370kW, V8 engine driving the rear wheels. This represents a complete turnaround on the current spec sheet, which shows the 75 and the "cooking" ZT with a V6 engine driving the front wheels.

There will also be Extreme versions of the ZR and ZS models - based on the Rover 25 and 45 respectively.

The MG ZR will have close links to its rally car cousin while the ZS will tie in with next year's entry in the British Touring Car Championship.

At this stage the Extreme derivatives are one-off vehicles, specially built for demonstration and promotional purposes.

They are being produced as a link between the motorsport programs and the mainstream MG models, and are a key part of the manufacturer's "X-Power/Product Excitement Strategy".

The mainstream MG models are set for June production and should be in UK showrooms by August. We are likely to get the ZT early next year.