MG ZT Saloon (2004 - 2005) 2.5 SE (190ps) 4d (2005/54) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Summary
What does this car say about you?
I'm not looking for a car to say anything for me personally. However in the eyes of others maybe 'old school', 'proud to be British', 'not a badge snob' or 'independently minded'.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They really like it, any doubters have changed their mind after a drive and are often surprised how nice it is inside.
Would you buy this car again and why?
With the same budget, yes. Excellent sturdy car with a bit of character and terrific value. I would wait for another SE to come on the market, they are very rare but come with £8k of extras over a standard 190 so well worth a few hundred pounds more second hand. In reality the premium actually required to buy an SE is higher than values quoted by Parkers but still worth it for the extra equipment you get.
What are you likely to buy next?
Alfa 159 Sportwagon, Seat Exeo ST or BMW E90 3 series Tourer or Coupe.
-
Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£2,500
When did you buy the car?
September 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes, excellent price, immaculate condition and had benefited from recently changed drive belts and a stainless exhaust.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Couldn't find any other car I preferred or offering better value for my budget.
What was the dealer like?
Very well regarded MG specialist with a reputation to maintain.
-
Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Excellent, solid, engaging and composed, enjoyable yet relaxing to drive at higher speeds so though whilst it may not be the fastest off the line the car's cross country point to point times are impressive. The gearing is a touch low for extended motorway driving but is perfect for fast sweeping A and B roads. I also like the precise weighty controls. The capable chassis exposes the weaknesses of cheap tyres. If Michein & Continental are too pricey I recommend Avon, Kumho and Barum.
What's it like to park?
Thanks to the reversing sensors OK considering it's a fairly long car. It's no wider than many current 'small' cars.
-
Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No and the the specialist had checked or addressed all small foibles known to these cars: Airbag warning light connector under seat, fuel tank clip, upgraded fan resistor, bonnet panel alignment, clear plenum drains and working vis valves.
What's most practical about your car?
Large well shaped boot with folding rear seats. I can fit two bicycles (with wheels removed) in the boot safely and securely and for longer loads can drop the rear seats. This isn't an option on BMW and Alfa Romeo saloons and only the very latest A4 has a sufficiently large boot for this.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Difficult, Xenons, Sat Nav/TV, reversing sensors, traffic master or sunroof.
