MG TF (02-05) - Review

Review by Parkers on 01 January 2002

These funsters are fitted with free-revving engines located behind the rear seats to give balanced handling and confident roadholding. The F had a hydra-gas suspension set up that has been replaced with more conventional springs and dampers on the TF. This allows a more sporting feel, but at the expense of ride quality which is better on the older car. The VVC engine is the pick of the range - adding spice to this already convincing package.

2.5 out of 5

Other MG reviews

2.5 out of 5

Summary

New price range:

£16,000 - £21,200

Used price range:

£766 - £2,202

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Styling, handling, brand heritage

Dated interior, patchy build quality, poor reliability

Driving & Performance

Performance

3 out of 5
"A 1.6 is the baby of the range and it's okay if you want to do some summertime cruising. The 160bhp..."
Handling

3.5 out of 5
"Despite the mid-engined, rear-driven set-up, the TF is very user-friendly with good balance on the..."

Comfort

Comfort

2.5 out of 5
"Only two seats but they're quite comfortable if set a little too high as if in a hatchback rather..."
Practicality

4 out of 5
"For a mid-engined sportscar this is a remarkably practical runabout. Behind the engine there's a..."
Equipment

3 out of 5
"TF is available in four specifications; TF 115, TF 120 Stepspeed, TF 135 and TF 160. All MG TF..."
Behind the wheel

2.5 out of 5
"Everything is laid out in a clear fashion, but despite the MG badging and white-faced dials, it's..."

Costs

Running costs

4.5 out of 5
"Holds its value quite well, and insurance, parts and servicing are all reasonable. Fuel economy is..."
Green credentials

2.5 out of 5
"TF scores reasonably on the eco front. With an average of 182 g/km CO2 across the line-up, its..."

Safety & Reliability

Safety

3.5 out of 5
"Only the driver gets an airbag as standard, and side bags aren't an option. However, it did score..."
Reliability

2 out of 5
"The MGF suffered plenty of reliability problems, not least a tendency to blow head gaskets. We see..."

Buying & Selling

Buying new

3 out of 5
"MG have been offering some tempting deals by extending warranties and providing free servicing for..."
Buying used

3 out of 5
"There are lots to choose from and it's worth talking to the previous owner. If the head gasket has..."
Selling

3 out of 5
"Steptronic is the least sought after model but is quite rare. Buyers are looking for pristine..."