MG ZT 220S: First Look

MG Rover Australia is set to expand its model range in spectacular fashion with the release of the the supercharged MG ZT220S.

The highly tuned ZT will be available for release with a choice of either a 5-speed manual transmission or a 5-speed adaptive automatic, and costs just $9,900 over the standard sedan.

It is aimed at motoring enthusiasts and buyers who are after more power than usual, and who want to keep their warranties intact, as some modifications will void your warranty.

The combination of a relatively small V6 (2.5-litres) and a locally-sourced supercharger gives the purposeful-looking British car a much-needed boost, so to speak.

MG's performance tests indicate that the 220S, where the 220 stands for horsepower, will deliver an approximately 20% increase in peak torque and power over the standard 2.5-litre V6.

Performance of the 220S will be brisk, no doubt about that, with peak power of 165kW @ 6400rpm and maximum torque of 288Nm @ 4100rpm coming from the all-alloy, quad camshaft V6.

The resulting powerband, or the distance in revs between peak torque and power, is some 2300rpm, and should endow the new MG with very strong midrange punch.

The high efficiency, low-boost twin-screw type supercharger has been developed locally through Sprintex Superchargers based in Perth, Western Australia, and like the Ford's new cult car, the XR6 Turbo Falcon, the low boost will help prolong the life of the engine.

Every MG ZT that is specified for supercharging is delivered to Sprintex direct from MG Rover where a Supercharger Conversion is installed.

This conversion involves the replacement and inclusion of a number of components, including a a fabricated inlet manifold to replace the original unit, control ECU, boost bypass value, a secondary fuel injector, mounting brackets and of course the twin screw supercharger.

Manual variants of the 165 kilowatt ZT220S are also fitted with a higher rated clutch to ensure that the power is delivered to the front wheels without protest and, on completion, all vehicles also undergo engine calibrations on a vehicle dyno.

The operation of the supercharger is then checked with a full quality control inspection.

Each Owners manual will include an addendum identifying the warranty and maintenance requirements of the vehicle, reinforcing specific engine oil and fuel requirements.

Michel De Vriendt, Managing Director of MG Rover Australia has this to say about the new sports sedan, "The standard ZT 180 is an outstanding car, with very good power delivery combined with magnificent handling characteristics.

"With its well-regarded chassis dynamics, we felt there was a tremendous opportunity to further enhance the vehicle’s overall performance. The Sprintex Supercharger development programme has allowed us to do this. Not only has power and performance been improved, overall acceleration has been enhanced.

"The ZT220S manual will reach 100km/h from a standing start in approximately 7.1 seconds, on par with other European sports sedans that retail at higher costs. The automatic will be able to meet this same milestone in approximately 8.3 seconds," concluded De Vriendt.

For homologation and warranty reasons, complete tuning kits will be fitted locally by qualified Sprintex technicians prior to delivery to authorised MG Rover dealerships. All ZT220S models will be covered by a 3-year/100,000km warranty, and the tuning kit will be made available with a recommended retail price of $9,900.

All certification requirements have now been completed by MG, and it is anticipated the first retail deliveries will commence in early July 2004. The new supercharged ZT220S is an alluring vehicle, with standard equipment including large multi-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic levelling xenon headlights, electric seats and automatic climate control.

With all the standard features of the ZT sedan, it will appeal to many buyers who want good accelerative value with the extra kick of forced induction, but who don't want to sacrifice luxury and comfort, or who don't want to own a high-maintenance prestige V8.

And because of its Australian connection, the new supercharged MG is expected to find favour with many buyers, and is one vehicle we'll be watching with very close interest.