It was offered in saloon and estate versions, the latter designated as the MG ZT-T. Styling is similar to the Rover 75, upon which it was based, although various modifications, most noticeably the wheels and tyres, make for a far sportier ride.

The basic shape and styling of the MG ZT remained the same as for the Rover 75[1] but with changes to the front bumper, now with an integrated grille, and detail alterations including colour coding of the chromed waistline, a new bootlid plinth, and different alloy wheels and tyres sizes.

Development of the MG ZT was headed by Rob Oldaker, Product Development Director, with styling changes undertaken by Peter Stevens, who was previously responsible for the styling of the McLaren F1 and X180 version of the Lotus Esprit.

The 190ps used a unique version of the KV6 with different camshafts as well as air intake and throttle body changes.

At around the same time, the 160 models started to use the 1.8 litre turbocharged version of the K16 unit, and the detuned V6 was dropped.

In around October 2003, the much awaited V8 powered, rear-wheel-drive MG ZT 260 model was launched, in estate and saloon body styles.

The XPower 385 ZT, was a set of concepts created by MG Rover to show the "Ultimate" version of the 260 V8.

The car was saved by the MG Owners Club, and rebuilt using their extensive facilities and expertise.

This car was highly modified and lightened it had more power than the standard V8 and a lightweight racing bodykit.

Nanjing Automobile of China purchased MG Rover in July 2005, three months after the company went bankrupt.

The MG 7 received praise from British car magazine Auto Express, who test drove it in May 2008, although it has not officially been sold in the United Kingdom.

A long wheelbase version, called the MG 7L, features the deeper radiator grille of the Rover 75 V8.