You will find those who have never quite understood the explanation of having a mid-sized conventional sedan within the Rover family, however it continues to defy those critics by selling in healthy quantities.

The diesel engine, allied to some Jatco automatic transmission, creates a surprisingly sophisticated package – even though majority of buyers plump for the 1.8 litre 16 valve engine that’s free-revving.

Handling about the higher-series cars remains geared more to comfort than absolute driving precision (the MG emerges to enthusiastic drivers) which suits its market position. The 2005MY facelift helps the vehicle survive.