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MG ZR 1.8 i 16V (117 Hp) CVT
Overall Rating
MG ZR:
The MG ZR is an MG branded "hot hatch" version of the Rover 25 supermini class car, produced by MG Rover at their Longbridge plant in Birmingham from 2001 to 2005. Compared to the Rover 25, the ZR featured a number of styling modifications and performance enhancements, such as updated sports suspension and a less baffled exhaust.
The MG ZR was one of Britain's most popular sporting hatchbacks throughout its production life, and in 2004, it was MG Rover's best selling car—the first time that any MG product had been the most popular product of any of the many combines that had owned the MG marque....(Read more on Wikipedia)
ZR Overview:
MG ZR (ZR). With 160 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~11.5 l/100km). Weighing only 1070 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 10 s). The top speed reaches 185 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.
Based on the Rover 25's 2001 Euro NCAP test, the MG ZR achieved a 3-star rating for adult occupant protection, which was average for its time but now considered below modern standards.
1.8 i 16V (117 Hp) CVT Verdict:
Performance Verdict
The CVT gearbox compromises acceleration compared to the manual, resulting in a less engaging and slower driving experience.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is comparable to the manual 1.8, but the driving dynamics are less appealing for a sporty car.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- • Engaging and agile handling, especially in higher trims.
- • Distinctive sporty styling sets it apart.
- • Affordable to buy on the used market.
- • Strong performance from 1.8 160 hp engine.
- • Excellent fuel economy from diesel variants.
Cons:
- • Notorious K-Series head gasket issues on petrol engines.
- • Interior quality can feel dated and plasticky.
- • Firm ride may not appeal to all drivers.
- • Limited safety features by modern standards.
- • Rear drum brakes on some models.
Specifications:
| General: | |
|---|---|
| Brand: | MG |
| Model: | ZR |
| Generation: | ZR |
| Modification (Engine): | 1.8 i 16V (117 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production: | 2001 |
| End of production: | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture: | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type: | Hatchback |
| Seats: | 5 |
| Doors: | 3/5 |
| Engine: | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 117 Hp @ 5500 rpm. |
| Power per litre: | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque: | 160 Nm @ 2750 rpm. |
| Engine Model/Code: | 18K4F |
| Engine displacement: | 1795 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Engine configuration: | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Fuel injection system: | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration: | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain: | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity: | 4.5 l |
| Coolant: | 4.8 l |
| Engine layout: | Front, Transverse |
| Cylinder Bore: | 80 mm |
| Piston Stroke: | 89.3 mm |
| Compression ratio: | 10.5:1 |
| Performance: | |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type: | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - urban: | 11.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban: | 6.3 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) - combined: | 7.3 l/100 km |
| Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h: | 10 sec |
| Acceleration 0 - 62 mph: | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed: | 185 km/h |
| Weight-to-power ratio: | 9.1 kg/Hp, 109.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio: | 6.7 kg/Nm, 149.5 Nm/tonne |
| Acceleration 0 - 60 mph: | 9.5 sec |
| Space: | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight: | 1070 |
| Max. weight: | 1530 |
| Max load: | 460 |
| Trunk (boot) space - maximum: | 1090 l |
| Trunk (boot) space - minimum: | 304 l |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 50 l |
| Size: | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4011 mm |
| Width: | 1690 mm |
| Height: | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase: | 2502 mm |
| Front track: | 1472 mm |
| Rear (Back) track: | 1457 mm |
| Powertrain: | |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Transmission type | Automatic |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
Is the MG ZR your dream ride or just a daily drive? Let's talk!