MG : Metro

Model Introduction

The MG Metro, launched in 1982, was the sporting version of the Austin Metro, aimed at reviving MG’s presence in the small car market. Powered by a tuned 1.3-litre A-Series engine with larger valves and improved carburation, it offered lively performance in a compact, practical package. In 1983 the range was joined by the MG Metro Turbo, developed with Lotus Engineering, which used a Garrett T3 turbocharger to deliver significantly more power and give the lightweight hatchback genuine hot hatch pace. Distinctive red seatbelts, sports seats, and subtle body styling tweaks made both versions stand out, keeping the MG badge relevant through the 1980s.

Magazine Articles

  • CAR Magazine cover

    Newcomers : MG Metro: The Cooper lives

    A high-performing 'brick' is just the tonic to keep the vaunted BL recovery moving

    CAR Magazine · June 1982
  • CCC Magazine cover

    Free Wheelin'

    MG Metro

    CCC Magazine · June 1982
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Giant Test

    MG Metro v Ford Fiesta XR2 v Fiat 127GT

    CAR Magazine · October 1982
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Dorchester Daredevils

    It's image, both the power and the Park Lane kind, that Austin Rover chase with this slick new pair - MG Metro Turbo and Rover Vitesse

    CAR Magazine · December 1982
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Newcomers

    BL's blown Metro - the MG Turbo - promises a great deal but fails to come up with all the goods

    CAR Magazine · February 1983
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Giant Test

    Renault 5TX v MG Metro v Ford Fiesta XR2 v Citroen Visa GT v Fiat 127GT

    CAR Magazine · June 1983
  • CAR Magazine cover

    Son Of Cooper

    BL's best Metro, the 110mph Turbo, has power and promise enough to cut it with this month's Giant Test Special brigade, but it won't beat a Golf GTi

    CAR Magazine · June 1983
  • Fast Lane cover

    Argy Bargy

    Austin Rover could well be making a virtue of necessity with their cut-price rally supercar.

    Fast Lane · August 1985
  • Fast Lane cover

    The Brat Pack

    Citroen AX GT v Daihatsu Charade GTti v Fiat Uno Turbo ie v Ford Fiesta XR2 v MG Metro Turbo v Sussex Performance Mini 1400 v Suzuki Swift 1.3GTi

    Fast Lane · March 1988