As part of the makeover of MG Rover, and as we await the introduction of its crucial Ford Focus/VW Golf rival late next year, the car firm is keeping busy reinventing some of its line in new formats to keep the public interested.
The first of these is the Streetwise, introduced this week to the Irish market and marketed as an on-roader. Aimed at the likes of Toyota's RAV 4 and the Land Rover Freelander, Rover says the Streetwise beats these competitors which are regarded as too expensive to purchase and run.
Based on the Rover 25, the Streetwise features a more rugged look, with an extra inch of ride height and larger neutral bumpers and roof rails.
However, it's strictly for the tarmac as there's no mention of a four-wheel-drive system on offer. Available as either a three- or five-door, the Streetwise will be powered by a choice of two 1.4-litre engines - a 83 bhp and an 102 bhp - and a 2-litre diesel. Prices start at €16,700 for the three-door 1.4-litre 83 bhp and rise to €24,225 for the five-door diesel.
