MG on comeback trail

Aug 4 2009 Steve Hughes

MG on comeback trail

TWO new versions of the MG TF roadster are on sale this summer - one to mark the 85th anniversary of the famous British brand.

The TF 85th Anniversary model is priced from £15,664 and comes with a distinctive body kit and interior fittings.

It is also fitted with Bilstein suspension, an Eibach anti roll system, lower ride height, an all new anti-torsion pack and a modified wheel set-up on Rimstock alloys.

MG has also launched an entry-level TF 135 priced from £13,511 - some £2,500 cheaper than the LE500 version which marked the return of the Longbridge-finished MG earlier in the year.

When it comes to reasonably priced sports cars, there have really only been two in the running over the past few years.

The biggest seller has been the Mazda MX-5 - which is an excellent car - but if this is the kind of open air motoring you fancy, take a look at the TF as well.

A mid-engined layout means excellent handling balance with superb road holding and grip.

Performance is good, with a close ratio five speed gearbox to make the most of the power, resulting in a 0-60mph acceleration time of 8.4 seconds, a top speed of 127mph, a CO2 figure of 185g/km and economy of 35mpg.

The steering is full of feel and the hood, which is electric, takes only a few seconds to put up or down.

Equipment includes electric windows, air conditioning, alloy wheels and a CD sound system with MP3 compatibility.

Despite the engine being behind the seats, there is a good amount of stowage space and the biggest bonus of all is that although this is a sprightly sports model it falls into the relatively low insurance group of 14.