Public Servant Lifestyle

"The coloured body kit, 17” alloy wheels and 205/45 R17 tyres give the MG ZR 160 an aggressive, raw look even when standing still" says Lifestyle test driver Philippa Davis.

"Any car aimed squarely at the hot hatch market must firstly look the part, that ability to turn heads and to cause the driver to glance back over the shoulder when walking away after parking. The ZR scores very positively in this area, with eye catching features such as full, body coloured, body kit, 17” alloy wheels and 205/45 R17 tyres giving the car an aggressive, raw look even when standing still. Once behind the leather steering wheel, driver comforts are somewhat sparse, the seating being designed to keep you in position whilst rocketing around rather than providing armchair relaxation.

"Acceleration is brisk and is accompanied by a pleasant, throaty, engine note which is also highly desirable to many would be purchasers. Sports style set up of suspension gives a very firm ride which can be a bit much on rougher town roads (where it will no doubt spend most of its life) and does not lend itself to comfortable longer journeys. Steering is precise, encouraging the driver to discover the full range of the cars capabilities.

"Overall, the balance achieved between engine output, gear ratios, suspension, steering and grip provide a fun experience for the short to medium distance driver. Longer distances (I drove Manchester/London) in the ZR are not particularly comfortable due to engine, road and wind noise, and the firmness of the stylish seating."

Equipment & Interior

"As with most sports/hot hatch models, space for passengers is not generous but then again it has never been high on the agenda for buyers in this market. Rear passengers will find leg and head room restricted, whilst the driver has to cope with poorly laid out instrumentation and an uncomfortable driving position.

"Everything inside the car is 'sporty' from the pedals to the part leather sports seats with red bolsters, plus the welcome addition of non-sports, original equipment air conditioning. Looking as sexy as the ZR does, its good thing that a perimetric alarm with
immobiliser is also part of the standard equipment.

Value For Money

"On the face of it, tremendous value for money (VFM) with lots of car to the pound, however, buyers in this market are notoriously brand conscious and attach an enormous amount of importance to being seen in the car with the right badge. MG has the right cache but little history in this particular niche and this may well be reflected in residual values. Shop around and make sure you get the maximum discount from your dealer to ensure best VFM."

Key Features

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