ROVER is launching a new tax-beating turbo-charged Rover 75. According to Rover, the car aims to compete with the growing demand for compact-executive cars that combine tax efficient CO2 ratings and the associated good fuel economy.

A new design of turbo-charger has been matched to the strong design characteristics of the K Series engine to produce the outstanding combination of 150Ps power, 215Nm of torque from 2100rpm and competitively low 193g/km CO2 emissions - ideal for the intellectual tax conscious motorist.

The new 1.8T models are available on Rover 75 Saloon and Tourer body styles with a range of trim specifications available from Classic to Connoisseur SE.

This addition to the engine range complements the 1.8, 2.0 V6, 2.5 V6 and the accomplished 2.0-litre common rail turbo-diesel - each offering class-leading refinement.

The Rover 75 1.8-litre turbo-charged four-cylinder engine holds many advantages over the competition. Weighing in at just 100kg, the K Series’ lightweight construction provides exceptional levels of responsiveness and drive.

Available in showrooms from early August, the new 1 .8T Saloon models will be priced from £18,295 for the Classic specification to the Connoisseur SE at £22,120.

For the Rover 75 1.8T, engineers have tapped into previously hidden development potential to produce a new 150Ps turbo-charged version of the K Series 1.8-litre engine which makes its debut in new versions of the Rover 75 range. The Rover 75 1.8T models have been developed specifically to meet the growing demand for compact-executive cars that combine tax-efficient CO2 ratings (and the associated good fuel economy) with excellent performance and driveability.

The new 1.8T versions have a tax-beating CO2 rating of 193g/km, thus reducing the 2002/03 UK company car tax liability to 20 per cent of list price plus lower running costs through enhanced fuel economy.

The 1.8T performs well with good acceleration - 60mph passes from a standstill in 9.1 seconds. This result follows an intensive engineering programme to produce the first turbo-charged production version of the lightweight K Series engine.