Rover Torque - for all Modern Rover Owners'

EVERY DAY IN NOVEMBER MG ROVER DEALER SHOWROOM VISITORS COULD WIN A ROVER CAR.
Nov. 1st.
Visitors to MG Rover showrooms throughout the UK now have the chance to win the new Streetwise, by Rover, every day during November. Billed as a 'November to Remember', 30 Streetwise vehicles, valued at £9,295, will be given to winners drawn daily throughout the month.

Rover get 'Wise' on the 'Street' and show a car for the 'City'.
(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 alot about it over the coming months.

Click above

"MG ROVER APPOINT NEW DEALERSHIPS".
(20th June 2003)

MG Rover Group has today announced the appointment of four new UK dealerships. The appointments are part of a long-term strategy to increase the network size with high quality outlets, and to fill open points which will result in customers never being too far away from a dealership.

In Dartford, the prestigious Whitehouse group are set to open their second MG Rover dealership while in Milton Keynes, the Souls organisation will open an all new dealership.

Moving further north, the Horner group will open a new dealership in Rochdale bringing their total number of MG Rover outlets to five. Also, Moss Rose will open a new dealership in Macclesfield.

Welcoming the new dealership appointments, John Jarvie, MG Rover Group head of dealer franchising said: "We are pleased that dealer groups already working with MG Rover Group are keen to extend their relationships. The appointments reflect the high level of confidence in the MG Rover franchise along with the knowledge of incremental business opportunities that will result from future product introductions."
"MG ROVER EXPANDS MOTORWAY SERVICES SALES DRIVE".
(11th June 2003)

A pilot scheme to showcase MG and Rover products at the Welcome Break M40 Oxford services (J8) has proved so popular and beneficial, that the project is being expanded to other sites. The South Mimms M25 Welcome Break services has just become operational, with more sites planned in the coming months.

Since the project started in January, thousands of individuals have expressed specific interest in the sample product display, itself generating a significant number of prospects and sales. Others have requested further product information, taken up test drives and more have since visited local dealers expressing intent to buy in the future.

John Sanders, Sales and Marketing Director, MG Rover Group, commented: "In yet another example of doing things differently, we've shown the benefit of reaching out to our customers in a very relevant environment and our association with Welcome Break has already proved to be a successful working partnership.

Welcome Break Chief Executive, George Charters, said: "This is an innovative approach to marketing cars and we're delighted to be working closely with MG Rover. More than three million people visit the South Mimms Services annually and we're certain that it provides MG Rover with a fantastic opportunity to promote their cars."
"MG ROVER GROUP SEE OFF KEY COMPETITION IN THE DRIVER POWER 2003 SURVEY"
May 21st.
In the recent Driver Power survey conducted by Auto Express, the influential motoring magazine, MG and Rover owners were very positive about their cars, seeing off many competitors including Volkswagen and all French manufacturers.
The survey, now in its second year, incorporated responses from over 25,000 readers and website users commenting on 10 key areas: Build quality, Performance, Ride, Handling, Comfort, Braking, Gearbox, Practicality, Steering and Reliability.
The Rover 75 achieved an outstanding result beating the Renault Laguna and the VW Passat in 8 out of 10 categories.

Commenting on the report, John Sanders, MG Rover Group Sales and Marketing Director said: "The Driver Power survey recognises the strong position we have with the Rover brand for comfort and the MG Brand for sporting appeal. While the Rover 75 once again demonstrated its high quality, the MG models have been highly endorsed for their sporting attributes."

"MG ROVER GROUP RE-ENTERS THE JAPANESE MARKET"
May 18th.
In conjunction with their partner Autotrading Luft, MG Rover Group is pleased to announce that it will shortly re-commence sales of MG and Rover cars in Japan. Both MG and Rover cars previously enjoyed much success in the Japanese market. After much praise from the motoring press Rover 75 was voted ‘Import car of the year.
Unfortunately, due to contractual obligations with the previous owner, MG Rover Group has until now been restricted from selling its cars in Japan. Autotrading Luft is based in Nagoya and will trade under MG Rover Nippon. Sales will start during July with a focus on Rover 75 Saloon and Tourer, MGTF plus MGZT and MGZT-T. Initially six retail outlets will be fully operational, progressively increasing to over 20.
"TOP TV DETECTIVE UNCOVERS LORD AUSTIN'S OFFICE HIDDEN FROM PUBLIC VIEW UNTIL NOW"
May 1st .
Top TV detective, John Nettles, was at MG Rover Group, Longbridge to formally unveil a recreation of Lord Austin's original office with John Parkinson, Managing Director XPart Ltd and former Austin Apprentice. The office has been hidden from public view until now.
Lord Austin's office has been recreated, with its original contents and decor and incorporated into the company's Conference Centre. The office, occupied by Herbert Austin during his working life at Longbridge (1905-1941), was largely undisturbed for 60 years, but hidden from public view.
Having worked during the establishment of the Wolseley Motor Company in 1896, Austin left to set up his own company, seven miles southwest of Birmingham. Despite being in the countryside, it offered his new workforce road and rail access, a water supply from the River Rea and smog-free air, where the paint on his motorcars dried with a bright finish. The room holds great significance both for the motor industry and Birmingham.
Lord Austin's office will be available for public viewing next month and to ensure its period atmosphere is retained, a specially created room provides viewing through the exterior windows.
(Picture shows Tony Osbourne with some of the artifacts found in Lord Austin's Office).

"MG ROVER GROUP GIVE MAXIMUM VALUE TO CUSTOMERS THROUGH GROUNDBREAKING INITIATIVE"
April 1st .
MG Rover Group has today (1 April) announced a groundbreaking initiative, 'Bring us any genuine offer and we'll beat it' - a programme of far ranging offers that will be of great interest to all purchasers of new cars. Consumer offers have traditionally been focused on one or two key elements such as free insurance or a low cost finance package. MG Rover Group were first to offer the innovative and popular 'Free Fuel' campaign and this new approach recognises that every customer has a different purchase requirement. The 'Bring us any genuine offer and we'll beat it' programme, encourages customers of new MG and Rover cars to select their preference from a wide range of options. This may include one or more of the following:
Fuel until 2004*, LPG Band 4 conversion, 0% Finance*, Additional extras (options and accessories), Track day experience (MG only), 2 or 3 years' servicing, Deposit contribution, Money Off*, 1 year's insurance (UK mainland only)*, Cash back, Low finance*
* Specific terms and conditions apply
Commenting on this innovative programme, John Sanders, MG Rover Group Sales and Marketing Director, explained: "Our approach recognises that every customer will have a different purchase requirement. The wide choice o foptions is tailored to meet individual needs and thus give customers exactly what they want. Whatever incentive other manufacturers offer, quite simply, we'll beat it. Whether customers want insurance, cash-back, servicing, interest free finance, deposit contributions, we can provide the best range of offers in the marketplace."
This is no April Fool's joke. The purchase options are available on all new MG and Rover cars registered between 1 April and 30 June 2003. LPG Band 4 conversions are available on all 1.6- and 1.8-litre Rover and MG saloon cars (excluding the MG ZR 160 / Express 160).
"MG ROVER'S HIGH SPEED DELIVERIES FOR COMMERCIAL VEHICLE SHOW"
March 18th .
MG Rover Group was displaying its new commercial vehicles to the CV show at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham March 18. The Rover Commerce and MG Express vans are both represented with four model variations - each with distinctive liveries - including an LPG equipped derivative and one that can dramatically speed up deliveries.
Peter Milner, general manager fleet sales, commented: "The new CDVs are attracting considerable interest from large fleet operators, small businessusers and for those who can benefit from VAT-registered businesses, low insurance and personal taxation."
Also on display is the MG Express HSSV (High Speed Service Van) that links back to the original 1931 M-Type Midget derived vehicle specially commissioned by MG founder, Cecil Kimber.
Today's MG Express HSSV incorporates a race-tuned K Series engine, generating 220Ps from its lightweight construction with a rally proven specification. Square-cut gears, Xtrac differential and 195Nm of torque produce a very fast car capable of reaching 60mph from standstill in 6.2 seconds and on to 100mph in 12 seconds, to a geared maximum of 135mph.
The Rover CDV is derived from the company's best selling Rover 25. It brings style, presence and practicality together for the first time in the sector. Available with a 84Ps 1.4-litre petrol and 101Ps 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine, the Rover CDV, priced from £7,072 (excl. VAT), provides outstanding value for money. High specification features include the intelligent TrafficMaster traffic alert system, ideal for congestion avoidance and the Rover CDV is the only product to feature this equipment as standard.
The MG Express, created from the hugely successful MG ZR hot-hatch platform, provides a new benchmark in the car derived van (CDV) sector, combining class-leading performance with desirability and practicality. The three-model line-up - 105 petrol, 101Ps turbo diesel and range topping 160 - all include high security protection. Prices start at £8,264 (excl. VAT).
All vehicles feature excellent levels of specification, an interior that includes a fully flat rear lined loadspace, partial steel bulkhead (with the option of a full height loadspace grille) and secure lashing points. The loadspace is best in class and panel sides are large enough to carry a business's identity. Approved LPG conversions are available on 1.4-litre petrol models.
"ROVER IS PRIZE CATCH IN UK'S LARGEST FISHATHON"
March 18th .
A new Rover 75 Tourer car is the prize catch in a national 'Fishathon' charity, the promotion led by Chris Tarrant with Jim Davidson and a host of stars in aid of the Prostate Cancer Charity.

The first UK Fishathon is the biggest-ever angling competition ever held in Britain. The winners will be one of 70 contestants fishing in the grand final at the Glebe Fishery, in Leicester on September 27. To win prizes, anglers must catch fish that have been tagged. The tag identifies the prize.
Mike Smith, Fishathon organiser, said: "The Rover is a superb prize catch and we're absolutely sure that its presence in our competition will fuel the demand for participation." Chris Tarrant, added: "I reckon I might win, but the lucky angler who hooks the Rover will have won big time - so will the Prostate Cancer Charity."
Competitors can enter by sending an entrance fee of £5, plus a minimum £20 charitable pledge to Prostate Cancer Charity. The Fishathon runs throughout August. Judges will focus on two categories: the biggest catch per species and the most money raised for charity. Entry forms are available at www.prostate-cancer.org.uk.
"PHOENIX VENTURE HOLDINGS STAFF TO HELP RAISE £75,000 FOR NSPCC - A SPORTING CHANCE FOR CHILDREN"
March 13th .
Staff at MG Rover, Powertrain and XPart, all part of Phoenix Venture Holdings Ltd have pledged to raise £75,000 for the NSPCC, through its unique partnership with Aston Villa Football Club. Six thousand five hundred employees have been asked to sell raffle tickets to the value of £10.

The prize is a specially prepared claret and blue Rover 25 and the draw will be held on April 19. The 'Aston Villa' car will also be displayed on match days to encourage supporters to buy tickets.

Other fundraising activities have started in the company, including a sponsored beard shave and a 'bucket collection' at the Aston Villa v Manchester United game on March 15. Also, a swinging sixties charity ball is also being held jointly with Aston Villa on April 5 at the Metropole hotel.
"ROVER SPONSORSHIP REVS UP WORLD INDOOR ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS"
March 13th .
Today (Thursday), a 40-strong fleet of award winning Rover 75s will begin its busy schedule transporting VIPs, officials, athletes and their coachesto the forthcoming IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federation) World Indoor Championships being held at the National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham (March 14-16). The sponsorship follows the company's involvement in the XVII Commonwealth Games last year where it provided over 900 chauffeur-driven Rover cars.

Commenting on the Rover brand association with the championships, Steve Robertson, General Manager Brand Strategy & Communications, MG Rover Group Limited said: "Working with the IAAF on such a prestigious event in the Midlands is a great privilege. It continues our ongoing investment to promote and develop British athletics on a truly international stage.

"We are a major investor in British athletics, also sponsoring the GB Olympic team. This is an ongoing partnership with the British Olympic Association, which began with Sydney 2000 and extends through to the games in Athens 2004."

The company has also helped create the 'Rover Combined Events Initiative', a four-year grass-roots scheme in partnership with UK Athletics to help young athletes get involved with combined events to find stars of the future.

A number of high-profile athletes currently benefit from sponsorship by the Rover brand, many of whom are Olympic medal winners. They include triple jump World Champion Jonathan Edwards, sprinter Darren Campbell, decathlete Dean Macey, rower James Cracknell and the young 100m sprint star Amy Spencer.

"PHOENIX VENTURE HOLDINGS TO DISTRIBUTE TATA PRODUCTS IN UK AND IRELAND"
March 11th.
"Phoenix Venture Holdings Ltd (PVH), owners of MG Rover Group, has signed an agreement with Tata Engineering to distribute the company's Safari off-roader and Loadbeta pick-up trucks in the UK and Irish markets. Given the specialist nature of both utility products, the franchises will be managed by Phoenix Distribution Ltd, a newly created subsidiary of PVH.

This agreement will significantly enhance the Tata brand presence in the UK and Ireland. Tata utility vehicles have established a niche presence in the market, based on their value-for-money. New upgraded versions of these vehicles, with contemporary features, will further enhance the value proposition. The vehicles will be distributed through a selection of both MG Rover and Tata dealerships. The new distribution arrangements will be implemented in the next few months.

Commenting on the announcement, PVH group Chief Executive Kevin Howe said: "We are delighted to cooperate with Tata on the distribution of these vehicles. The agreement further broadens the activities and business base of Phoenix Venture Holdings."

Dr V. Sumantran, Executive Director (passenger cars) of Tata Engineering said: "The sale of Tata products through Phoenix Distribution, is another expression of Tata's commitment to building long-term brand presence in the UK and Irish markets and ensuring the satisfaction of both current and future Tata consumers."

(Sourced from What Van website today)

Selected MG Rover dealers will be selling Tata Loadbeta pick-ups from June onwards. That's one consequence of a distribution deal signed by Tata and MG Rover's owner Phoenix VentureHoldings (PVH). The agreement ends the uncertainty surrounding Loadbeta's future in the UK after Tata and Motor Vehicle Industries (MVI), the previous importer, parted company a few months back.

Warranties on Loadbetas already on the road will be honoured under the new arrangement and a number of existing Tata dealers will continue to sell the vehicles.

PVH was unable to say how many dealers the network would encompass, what
the split between MG Rover and Tata outlets would be, or how many Loadbetas it planned to sell annually. A mere 400 were sold in Britain last year, down from 650 in 2001.

Its volume aspirations are unlikely to be huge, however, despite the fact that Loadbeta is being upgraded. Loadbeta isn't finished to the same standards as MG Rover's new range of vans, but PVH doesn't anticipate this being a problem. "Tata represents an entirely different proposition to Rover and I think that's something that will be recognised by both dealers and customers," says a company spokesman.

To be managed by Phoenix Distribution, a newly created PVH subsidiary, the agreement also covers Tata's Safari off-roader. It includes the Republic of Ireland as well as the UK.
Under a separate arrangement MG Rover is to market a rebadged version of Tata's Indica supermini. MVI had hoped to import the model itself and has started legal proceedings against both manufacturers.
"GORDON BROWN WOULDN'T LIKE IT"
March 6th .
"Petrol for free, we don't think Gordon would approve of this. It's far too generous but we thought overtaxed car drivers would appreciate the idea," said sales and marketing director John Sanders.
The free fuel promotion that put over 8,000 car buyers behind the wheel of a new MG or Rover car since January is according to John Sanders: "one of the cheekiest and most innovative promotional campaigns we've ever tried."

MG Rover Group is taking the idea to its ultimate limits. MG Rover staff, disguised as Gordon Brown, arrive at filling stations around the country completely un-announced and spontaneously offer to pay for a customer's fuel in order to promote the campaign, which runs until the end of March 2003.
MG Rover Group's innovative promotion provides 'free fuel until 2004' for customers buying MG and Rover cars registered before 31 March 2003.

MG ROVER SET TO ENJOY AN INDIAN TAKEAWAY
Feb 15 th.
(Printed in Cannock & Rugeley Mercury Feb 13th 2003)

The extent of MG Rover's involvement with Indian car maker TATA has been revealed, as news agency Reuters is reporting that the UK manufacturer has agreed to purchase 10,000 Indica cars over a 5 year period.

MG Rover's recent announcement of a tie-up with TATA provoked a positive response from industry analysts, as it is common knowledge that MG Rover has been in need of a new small car since the Metro disappered from British showrooms.

With both time and money constraints hampering the firm, MG Rover executives had little choice but to seek a partner if it wanted to reduce both the cost and developement lead time of bringing a new car to market quickly.

The news of the two firms purchasing agreement is only half the story, as MG Rover will be making susbtantial changes to the Indian company's Indica hatchback before launching in the UK sometime this Autumn. It is believed that the car's nose and tail will receive updates, and the interior will be revamped to match MG Rover's current 'House style'.

Mechanical - and costly - upgrades are likely to be minimal given the cars tight launch schedule. However, suspension settings are to be re-calibrated to better suit European roads.

There is no word yet on the cars price, or what it might be called when it finally appears. Curent speculation includes the Metro badge but, given its position under the Rover 25, some commentators believe that the Rover 15 moniker is more likely.

NEW VANS TAKE MG ROVER GROUP INTO COMMERCIAL SECTOR FOR THE FIRST TIME
Feb 12 th.
MG Rover Group’s strategy to open up niche markets with new and exciting products sees the company enter the commercial vehicles sector for the first time. The development of car derived vans from the small car platform, brings the total number of vehicles in production at its single Longbridge factory to eleven.

The MG Express, created from the hugely successful MG ZR hot-hatch, provides a new benchmark in the car derived van (CDV) sector, combining class-leading performance with desirability and practicality. The three-model line-up – 105 petrol, 101Ps turbo diesel and range topping 160 – include high security protection. Prices start at £8,264 (excl. VAT).

The Rover CDV is derived from the company’s best selling Rover 25. It brings style, presence and practicality together for the first time in the sector. Available with a 84Ps 1.4-litre petrol and 101Ps 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine, the Rover CDV, priced from £7,072 (excl. VAT), provides outstanding value for money. High specification features include the intelligent TrafficMaster traffic alert system, ideal for congestion avoidance. Rover CDV is the only product to feature this equipment as standard.
Both vehicles feature excellent levels of specification, an interior that includes a fully flat rear lined loadspace, partial steel bulkhead (with the option of a full height loadspace grille) and secure lashing points. The loadspace is best in class and panel sides are large enough to carry a business’ identity. Approved LPG conversions are available on the 1.4-litre petrol models.

Guy Pigounakis, UK Commercial Director, MG Rover Group, stated: “The announcement of the Rover CDV and MG Express answers the demands of individuals and small business users who desire versatile products that are economic in operation and have distinctive style. The MG Express and Rover CDV are class-leading delivery vehicles.”

Guy added: “I’m sure a great number of small businesses are going to get very excited about these new car derived vans, which are yet another example of MG Rover Group’s ability to bring innovative products to the market and introduce new desirability into an established market sector.”

A double first for both MG and Rover is the fact that neither has produced a car derived van before.