Launch models

The first models launched were both V6 engined versions, the 160ps and the 190ps. The 160ps used a detuned by software, 177ps unit as found in the Rover 75. The 190ps used a unique version of the KV6 with different camshafts as well as air intake and throttle body changes.

Range Growth

In January 2002, the next model to be launched was the 180 Auto. This model used a 177PS KV6, but with 190 cam timing and 190 throttle modifications.^[4] Then in around August 2002, the diesel models were launched with a 116PS M47R unit. Customers could purchase a Xpower software upgrade, which would increase power to 131PS.^[5]

In July 2003, the 120 models were launched; these were powered by the 1.8 litre K16 unit. At around the same time, the 160 models started to use the 1.8 litre turbocharged version of the K16 unit, and the detuned V6 was dropped. In around October 2003, the much awaited V8 powered MG ZT 260 model was launched.

Facelift

During the first few months of 2004, MG Rover facelifted the design of the ZT and ZT-T to a less retro look, at the same time as the Rover 75 received a facelift. The facelift didn't feature much in the way mechanical differences to the ZT, most changes were merely aesthetic and the main changes to the facelift, included the replacement of the twin headlamps, with a new, clear single headlamp unit.

XPower 385

The XPower 385 ZT, was a set of concepts created by MG Rover to show the "Ultimate" version of the 260 V8. The 385 was equipped with a 385PS 4 Valve Ford Modular V8. A similar engine that was fitted in the 385 concept car and the "ultimate" ZT was later fitted in the MG SV. The development of the cars was undertaken by Prodrive, but the cars never appeared as MG Rover closed in April 2005.

The cars were fitted with a wide bodykit, and featured a spoiler on the rear of the car.

XPower 500

Before the ZT 260 was launched, MG created a special concept car: the MG XPower ZT 500. This car was intended to show off what MG can do with the ZT's chassis, and was never intended for mass production. The XPower ZT is fitted with a 500PS supercharged 4.6 litre Ford Modular V8, similar the engine fitted to the 260 ZT. The XPower 500 has a more aggressive wide bodykit, with larger spoiler similar to the XPower 385.

The car was saved by the MG Owners Club, and rebuilt using their extensive facilities and expertise. The car was allocated VIN No 001.

Competition cars

The last competition car built by MG Sports and Racing was a racing version of the V8 MG ZT260. This car was highly modified and lightened it had more power than the standard V8 and a lightweight racing bodykit. The car is now owned by an Australian MG Enthusiast who races it competitively. It is painted dark grey in colour.

MG7

The MG 7 is a sports saloon that is built by Chinese carmaker MG Motor, derived from the MG ZT. Production started in March 2007. The MG 7 received praise from British car magazine Auto Express, who test drove it in May 2008, although it has not officially been sold in the United Kingdom.

The MG 7 comes in two variants, the first which resembles the Mark I MG ZT with twin front lights, and the second, which resembles the Mark II Rover 75 V8. A long wheelbase version, called the MG 7L, features the deeper radiator grille of the Rover 75 V8.

Roewe 750

Also released at the same time as the MG 7, the Roewe 750 appeared from the company SAIC, of which SAIC & Nanjing later merged. The Roewe 750 showed how the two companies worked, while the MG 7 retained the classic looks of the Mark 1 ZT, SAIC opted for the Mark 2 Style Rover 75 style exterior.