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8th July 2003
Rover have today announced the
launch of a new car. To a backdrop of lights and music they showed their replacement
for the Mini/Metro/100 called the 'CityRover'. Get used to the name, you'll
see and hear a lot about it over the coming months.
Greg Allport, Head of
Media Communications, started the morning off and introduced Stuart McGee, Group
PR Director. He stated that MG-Rover were financially 'on target' more of which
would be explained later in the year when they announce their figures to share
holders. He also stated that they were enjoying a number of marketing successes
including Japan and Sweden. John Edwards, Sales & marketing director, then
presented a new look Rover Logo, "a new look to go with updated products
and changes in technology", he said.
CityRover
The reveal of the Indian
built CityRover rides on the back of high hopes from MG-Rover. Around 4.5
million small cars (35% of total car sales) are sold in the European market place,
the CityRover is aimed to compete with the likes of the 106, Ka, Saxo,
Micra, Yaris etc. The cars looks are all down to Peter Stevens and his design
team. It is very easy to get into the car and it features more interior space
than the Yaris and has 35ltrs more luggage space (at 220ltrs) than the Ford Ka.
The dashboard, whilst lacking the now famous Rover wood trim, does feature white
dials as standard. The CityRover goes on sale in the UK and Ireland from
6th November 2003. Uk prices start
at £6,500. Profits from this car will go towards developing new models,
helping to secure jobs at the Longbridge factory. View
MG-Rover press release.
View
MG-Rover November 03 Launch release
StreetWise
Next up was a vehicle
which probably surprised a few people, not least because it is based on the Rover
25. MG-Rover have identified an area in car sales for the 25 to 35 year old, who
want an individual 'more butch' looking vehicle but cannot afford to buy a LandRover
Freelander. Enter the 'StreetWise'. This vehicle is described as an 'on-roader',
beefier looking than it's 25 stable mate, but not being a true 4x4 cannot go off
road to any great degree. It is aimed at someone who wants the look, but within
a strict budget. The 'StreetWise' nearest competion is currently the Ford
Fusion and features a higher ride than the normal 25. It has roof bars fitted
as standard and goes on sale in the UK on 21st August 2003 with an OTR of £9,295
View
MG-Rover press release.
MG-Rover
also announced a lower powered MG-ZT 160 with 1800cc engine and MG-ZS 110 with
1400cc engine for the fleet market. Also the launch of the Rover 75 stretched
limousine and the MG-ZT 268 with V8 engine with a 0-60 mph time of close to 6
seconds. |
