The MG TF is fundamentally a new generation of
the MGF, Britain’s best selling sports car and introduces a new exterior
appearance, an all-new suspension design, higher performing engines and a host
of new paint, interior trim and optional hood colours.
Launched into world markets from February 2002 with an
array of new improvements, the TF is led by its design, feature
specification and driver enjoyment. In the UK market, the MGF has been
the best selling car in the roadster sector for the last six years and the TF
has been evolved to continue this tradition.
The MG styling team, led by the company’s Product
Design Director, Peter Stevens, have substantially developed the exterior style
and aerodynamic packaging – the two key influencing factors on purchase
decision.
The TF carries a sharper, more aggressive and
purposeful look, which was honed in both studio and wind tunnel. The improved
aerodynamic characteristics play an integral part in the chassis development and
maximise the benefits of the new suspension and steering changes.
The TF has a new front bumper, shaped to reduce
front-end lift, with a framed lower air intake and the provision for ‘Fogstar’
fog lamps. All-new high-efficiency projector headlamps complete the frontal
appearance.
At the rear, an integrated effective lip spoiler
incorporating a high-mounted stop lamp flows from the rear deck. The TF
is lower with a greater dynamic appearance, assisted by its dart-like sill
features and crisply-shaped air intakes.
A crucial aspect of the TF’s engineering
development was the requirement for a new suspension design. A completely new
coil spring suspension and multi-link rear axle replaces the MGF’s
inter-connected Hydragas system to produce a more responsive and involving
set-up, re-engineered to produce a completely enjoyable driving experience. An
optional Sports Handling Pack permits greater levels of driver involvement and
further improved handling performance.
The MG TF is a new generation of the MGF,
that recognises the ‘real world’ affordability and practicality required of a
fully-functioning everyday sports car. The modified front and rear subframes are
solid-mounted and the new suspension features a 10mm lower stance. This benefits
appearance, stability and handling with its lower centre of gravity.
The body structure has been stiffened in crucial areas
to produce a 20% more rigid shell, producing an improvement in windscreen header
vibration. Steering is now more responsive, with a completely new tune for the
speed-sensitive Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS), with a 10% faster
geared rack with revised characteristics to give a more progressive steering
feel throughout the car’s speed range. On ABS equipped cars, braking distances
have been shortened by 10%.
A four-model range provides customers with a spectrum
of performance, style, affordability and specification. Designated by numbers
closely linked to their power output, the range includes the 1.6-litre TF
115, the well-appointed 1.8-litre TF 135, the TF 120 Stepspeed
with multi-function CVT sports auto and the range-topping TF 160 with the
legendary Variable Valve Control K Series engine.
The TF range spans a 118mph/190km/h to
137mph/220km/h speed range capability, with improvements to performance, economy
and CO2.
New paint colours – XPower Grey and Le Mans Green – are
available on MG TF, with Trophy Blue and Trophy Yellow now extended to
the entire range. TF also introduces three new optional hood colours – in
blue, grey and green and new trim fabrics – Sebring and Daytona. Three new
interior colours to complement Ash – Tan, Grenadine and Smokestone – are
available with matching tonneau covers for when the hood is folded. New alloy
wheels include an 11-spoke 16" design and the option of an ultra-lightweight.
Rob Oldaker, MG Rover Group’s Product Development
director, explained: "The mid-engined MGF has been a great success and
the new TF builds on these strengths to create a car which fully embodies
MG’s passion for producing a fun and driver-rewarding road car experience. I
truly believe the new MG TF can produce even more exhilaration than its
competitors."
The first MG TF built will carry a 0101 VIN
(Vehicle Identification Number) suffix, following an MG tradition that has used
the last three numbers of the company’s telephone number – Longbridge is 0121
475 2101. Abingdon MGs from 1930 were started at 0251 (Abingdon 251), with MG
Magnette ZAs and TF Midgets using a 0501 VIN following the company’s BMC
Headquarters in Birmingham having the 1501 telephone number.