WHILE other models in its range are not proving as popular, Rover Group has seen sales of its sporting MG ZT range climb.

So, to give the ZT an even stronger hold, Rover Group is introducing a revised and more stylish new range, aimed at dedicated sports enthusiasts.

The range encompasses a choice of saloon and estate cars, with in-line four-cylinder, V6 and V8 engines.

New alloy wheel designs, instrumentation, seat fabrics and traffic management systems boost the specification levels, while key visual changes see the aerodynamic front bumper integrated with a new MG radiator grille. There are also new halogen projector headlamps. At the back-end new model badging sits above the bumper.

Sales of the MG ZT saloon and ZT-T estate were up 28 per cent last year, with the ZT 120, with its lightweight K Series engine to the 260 V8 with 410Nm of torque, among the best sellers.

As well as introducing a wider colour range, including Goodwood green pearlescent, there are also 12 new monogram paint colours in a range of 24 shades

All the ZT models provide body-hugging sports seats and a clear fascia layout with instruments graphics backlit in blue for the driver, but there is an optional black oak treatment on the fascia and console, together with a black oak wood steering wheel. Or burr walnut can be specified.

Models 120, 160, 180 sports auto, CDTi and 190, have a new fabric sports seat, while black leather trimmed sports seats are standard on SE derivatives. There is more room and better foot and knee clearance for those using the back seats.

A leather and alloy gearknob, centre armrest with central storage, pollen filter and air conditioning are standard, with TrafficMaster Traffic Alert and TrafficMaster Smartnav navigation an option.

Other key features include sports suspension, solar controlled rear window glazing, a variety of courtesy-light actions, a CD tuner, central door locking and a security alarm system.

Features unique to the saloon version include one-piece folding rear seat backrest, double hinged boot lid for wide opening and easy access internal electric boot release button, as well as a storage area in the rear centre armrest, while the estate has a 60/40 split folding rear seat backrest system, a loadspace with retractable carrying hooks, floor lashing points, lighting and a roller blind cover, and a rear wash-wipe system which also switches on automatically when the car is put into reverse gear.

The ZT/ZT-T 120 model also rides on 17in five-spoke alloy wheels, and has a concealed rear exhaust, while other ZT/ZT-T models, the CDTi, 160, 180 and 190, between them share a range of other fittings, from twin exhaust pipes to ventilated brakes.

Flagship models such as the 260 and SE (Special Equipment) models move up a step with such items as automatic temperature control air conditioning, quad exhaust systems, cruise control, heated windscreen washers, automatic windscreen washers and rear parking distance sensors.

Prices of the ZT range come in at £16,225 for the entry level 120 and top out at £33,490 for the 260 V8SE, while the ZT-T range starts at £17,225 for the 120 and rises to £34,490 for the 260 V8 SE.

There are also loads of optional extras available, including five-speed automatic transmission for £1,200 and an Highline navigation system for another £2,325.

Updated: 09:17 Friday, February 20, 2004