ONCE LAME DUCK with rock solid financial backing has changed. What used to be called Rover Group is on its own again but as a much smaller manufacturer and on a totally different route than the last master had in mind. Oh, and there’s less of that firm BMW financing too.

Today MG Rover makes much noise about ones abilities attracting top-notch staff - as chief designer Peter Stevens, ex McLaren, Lotus, Lola… - and building exciting sports saloons. And they say we aunt seen nothing yet.

Already on sale is the soft MGF. Previously, this model was too much head on competition with owner BMWs Z3 and was left without development. Now the range has been complemented with a 160bhp performance derivative and next year the whole range will be worked over.

Also coming up is a big grand tourer sports car, the X80, based on the American-Italian Quale Mangusta chassis. V8 power from Ford (260 and 385bhp) lurks beneath a new body shell branded MG. Car is scheduled for launch summer 2002 and will be available as an open two seater and a coupe.

Later, it is rumoured that the MG line up will be complemented by a V6 powered sports car, bridging the gap between MGF and X80. But first the company must show it can survive, At least until it gets bought by someone in need of a classic sports car brand.

FACTS
· MG´s coming up:
· X80 grand tourer sports car
· In between MGF and X80 – V6 powered sports car

Images
MG X80, MGF 500