ROVER's turbulent past has led to a fresh approach and a new 'clean sheet of paper' start in 2001. A range of new MG-branded models based on the 25,45 and 75 models scheduled for introduction later in the year is designed to inject more pizzazz into the company's products, and establish it more as a niche player rather than an out and out volume producer.

The 25 and 45 were launched at the beginning of last year, heavily revised and repositioned with the 25 competing in the supermini class. The 45 5dr now takes on the top end of the lower medium sector, while the 45 4dr is a direct rival for established upper medium rivals such as the Vectra and Mondeo.

As well as the styling changes inspired by the 75, the 45 adopted the potent 148bhp 2.0-litre V6 as well as a spruced up interior to sharpen its appeal. Available only as a four-door, the V6 comes with Steptronic five-speed automatic transmission and retails at ú17,095 on-the-road.