STREETWISE, the new “urban on-roader” from Rover, has just arrived at MG Rover showrooms, which are holding special viewings for potential customers over the next few days.

Robust, versatile and stylish, Streetwise is a small car that’s fun to drive, handy in traffic, easy to park and able to shrug off hard use. It has elements of an SUV, with good ground clearance and ruggedness, but without the low economy and complexity of 4x4 transmission. At the same time, it offers good all-round performance and capability.

The Streetwise is a bold new extension to Rover’s small car range, offering a distinctive new driving experience. It has larger wheels and raised suspension for better ground clearance and a more commanding driving position.

For extra toughness and durability, it has robust moulded bumpers, wheelarch protectors and rubbing strips, all in a scratch-resistant dark grey-grained finish.

Inside, the car has individual sports seats. A central console with storage space runs the full length of the cabin, dividing the passenger space.

Initial sales will start with 1.4-litre petrol and the 2.0-litre turbo-diesel. Prices start at £9,295 (1.4-litre (84Ps) model).