Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
SOME brands pass away and are quickly forgotten and barely missed. Others slip from our attention, but remain fondly remembered. A few return and are welcomed back into our lives.
Following a string of ownership changes in the past few decades, MG (Morris Garages) is back and Zayani Motors have been appointed as its exclusive dealer in Bahrain.
The MG sports car became a firm favourite across the world for decades but had a roller-coaster existence. Originally owned by William Morris in 1924 it went on to become one of the flagship models under British Leyland, later the Rover Group, before the marque passed to British Aerospace and on to BMW. The German giant sold the business in 2000 to the MG Rover Group.
In 2005, the Nanjing Automobile Group purchased the rights to the MG brand and the assets of the group, creating a new company NAC MG UK Limited. In 2007, NAC entered talks about a merger with Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), and the takeover was completed later that year.
Now the brand has the backing and resources of a multi-billion dollar automotive giant its future is considered by industry pundits as more secure than at any time in its history. It now aims to make its mark once more in the Middle East.
"The introduction of the luxurious MG brand is a true testimony of Zayani Motors' vision and plans in marking a new era of growth and success in the country," said Nawaf Al Zayani, managing director of Zayani Motors.
The introduction of MG in Bahrain is marked by the launch of the new MG550 sedan model that comes in two variants of Comfortable and Deluxe.
The MG550 is designed with aggressive sporty appearance, maintaining the classiness of the Roewe 750. Powered by MG Rover K-Series 4 cylinder 1.8 Turbo engine, the MG 550 offers a torque of 160hp.
"We are confident that the new model MG 550 will be a resounding success marking the beginning of our new venture," said Mr Al Zayani.
One motoring correspondent in the Gulf was full of praise for the vehicle after a short test drive. He said: "The car truly is attractive, with a hint of 'premium' VW, only better."
The MG 550 starts from BD6,250. For more information contact Zayani Motors on 17703703.
