MG are running rather late in returning the MGTF to UK production. The first cars were initially expected to roll off the Longbridge production lines late in 2007 but delays have put this back by several months. The TF LE 500 features the same mid engined powerplant as the previous TF while the styling has been subtly updated. Production for the TF belongs to Shanghai Automobile Corporation (SAIC), however the MG brand is owned by Nanjing Automobile Corpor ation (NAC). In order to get production moving the two Chinese giants had to join forces after extensive negotiations. Production is now due to start in August with the first deliveries in September.
Meanwhile the MG design team based in Warwickshire are working on the TF’s replacement. The new car will be based on the platform developed to replace the Rover 45/MG ZS and take styling cues from the MG SV supercar and X80 concept. The rear wheel drive design is likely to be front engined and larger than the current roadster. Power is expected to come from turbo charged four cylinder and V6 options. The car should go on sale in 2010 and aimed squarely at the Mazda MX5 Miata.
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