- Impressive ride/handling balance
- Accurate, well-weighted steering
- Cramped interior
- Poor dashboard layout
- Cabin lacks sound insulation
- Variable build quality
Overview
Released in February 2005, the MG ZR 160 was a small hatchback, available in three- or five-door models. Manufactured in Longbridge, UK, the front-wheel drive ZR was powered by a 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine that was mated to a five-speed manual transmission.
Engine
The 1.8-litre K-Series engine had aluminium alloy construction, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable valve control (VVC) and a compression ratio of 10.5:1. As such, the ZR 160 could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 7.5 seconds.
Dimensions and suspension
The ZR was 4011 mm long, 1931 mm wide, 1400 mm tall and had a 2500 mm long wheelbase; kerb mass was 1090 kg for three-door models and 1100 kg for five-door models. The ZR had double wishbone front suspension with MacPherson struts and independent, multi-link rear suspension (both with coil springs, anti-roll bars and hydraulic shock absorbers).
| Engine | Trans. | Peak power | Peak torque | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ZR | 1.8-litre petrol I4 | 5sp man. | 118 kW at 6900 rpm | 174 Nm at 4700 rpm |
Safety equipment
Standard safety equipment for the MG ZR included dual front airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution and front seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Brakes
The MG ZR had 282 mm ventilated front disc brakes and 262 mm solid rear discs.
Features
Standard features for the MG ZR included 17-inch fifteen-spoke alloy wheels with 205/45 tyres, a six speaker sound system with a CD player, air conditioning, contoured sports seats, front fog lights, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tinted windows, a motion-sensing alarm and immobiliser.
Leather seats were available as an extra-cost option.
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