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Roewe 750
Roewe 750
Roewe 750
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Roewe 750
Overview
ManufacturerRoewe (SAIC Motor)
Also calledMG 750 (export markets)
ProductionOctober 2006–2016[1]
AssemblyChina: Yangzhou, Yizheng
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size luxury / Executive car
Body style4-door saloon
LayoutFF layout
Related
Powertrain
Engine
Electric motor
Transmission5-speed automatic
Hybrid drivetrain
BatteryJohnson Controls Li-ion
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,849 mm (112.2 in)
Length4,865 mm (191.5 in)
Width1,765 mm (69.5 in)
Height1,422 mm (56.0 in)
Chronology
PredecessorRover 75 (China)
SuccessorRoewe 950

The Roewe 750 is an executive saloon that was produced by Roewe in China between 2006 and 2016, based on the Rover 75.

Overview

[edit]

Launched in October 2006, and codenamed SAC528 during development, the wheelbase of the Roewe 750 is stretched by 103 mm (4.1 in) compared to the Rover 75.[2] The drivetrain is a 2.5L V6 petrol engine (184bhp), based on the Rover KV6 engine and designated NV6, and the gearbox is a brand new five speed automatic. Unlike the 75 however, there are no wagon or performance versions available.

The company claims that 85% of the car is improved. Later, a 1.8T (turbo) petrol engine based on the Rover K-series engine, delivering around 160 bhp (119 kW; 162 PS) was introduced. The standard 1.8T version Roewe 750 was priced at 180,000 yuan (US$29,000 or £14,500) in January 2008.[3]

Roewe 750 1.8 Turbo
Rear view of the Roewe 750 1.8 Turbo

The 750's three trim levels were 750D, 750E, and 750i. The 750D can include either engine and 16" wheels, while the 750E and 750i are V6 only and 18" wheels. The upper end 750i added GPS and television/DVD as standard features. Prices range from 181,800 Yuan for a L4 to 268,800 Yuan for a loaded 750i.[citation needed]

SAIC Roewe claim acceleration from still to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.5 seconds for the 1.8T Manual, 11.5 seconds for the 1.8T automatic and 10.2 seconds for the V6 automatic, fuel efficiency of 6.0 and 6.4L/100 km respectively, and top speeds of 205 km/h (127 mph) for the four and 220 km/h (137 mph) for the V6.[4][5]

The Roewe 750 was exported to various foreign markets under the MG marque, such as Peru, Chile, Algeria and Egypt.[6][7]

Roewe 750 interior

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Roewe 750

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The is a mid-size luxury sedan manufactured by , a brand of the Chinese automaker , from 2006 to 2016. It features a and was derived from the British platform, with a extended by 103 mm for improved rear passenger space. The model was restyled with a more modern exterior, including two grille options—a smaller one for base trims and a larger, chrome-accented for higher-spec versions—and an updated interior with new , seats, and door panels. Following the collapse of MG Rover in 2005, SAIC acquired the intellectual property rights to the for £67 million and established the marque to avoid trademark conflicts after Ford's of the Rover name. Development of the (project code SAC528) began following MG Rover's 2005 administration under the guidance of approximately 150 ex-MG Rover and engineers based in the UK through consultant firm (2010) Limited, incorporating refinements from a planned but unrealized 2006 facelift of the . Launched in October 2006 at SAIC's plant, it received a minor facelift in 2011 that introduced subtle styling tweaks and a mild hybrid variant. Production continued until 2016, after which it was succeeded by the Roewe i6. The Roewe 750 was offered in several variants, primarily with a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four (18K4G) producing 160 PS (118 kW) paired with a five-speed manual transmission or five-speed automatic, and a 2.5-liter (25K4F) engine delivering 184 PS (135 kW) mated to an Warner five-speed automatic transmission replacing the original JATCO unit. The model, introduced in 2011, combined the 1.8-liter engine with electric assistance for improved efficiency. Dimensions emphasized comfort, with the sedan's length increased over the for enhanced rear legroom, and curb weight around 1,598 kg for the V6 variant. Positioned as an , it targeted the premium segment in with features like automatic climate control and remote key entry.

Development

Origins from Rover 75

In 2004, SAIC Motor acquired the intellectual property rights and tooling for the Rover 75, along with the Rover 25 and K-series engine, from the UK's MG Rover Group for £67 million, though this deal excluded the Rover brand name itself. MG Rover's collapse into administration in April 2005 followed the breakdown of a proposed joint venture with SAIC, prompting the Chinese firm to abandon further investment in the British company and instead repurpose the acquired assets under a new identity. This shift led to the establishment of the Roewe brand by SAIC in 2006, chosen to phonetically evoke "Rover" in Chinese while sidestepping trademark conflicts with the original British marque. The 750 originated from a facelift project initiated around 2004 at MG , which included preliminary design sketches and concepts for platform extensions aimed at a post-2005 model update before the halted British development. Ex-MG engineers contributed to adapting this foundation for SAIC's production timeline, culminating in the Roewe brand's debut in October 2006.

Engineering and Production Launch

Following the acquisition of MG Rover's in 2004, engaged British engineering firm to spearhead the development of its first own-brand vehicle, the Roewe 750 (codenamed SAC528). In May 2005, established a subsidiary, Ricardo (2010) Limited, in the UK, hiring approximately 150 former MG Rover and engineers to form the core development team under 's oversight. This team, drawing on expertise from the platform, focused on adapting the design for the Chinese market while incorporating local manufacturing capabilities. Key modifications centered on enhancing practicality and aesthetics without overhauling the underlying . The was extended by 103 to provide greater rear passenger space, addressing preferences in 's sedan segment. New door pressings were introduced to facilitate the stretch, and the rear end received revised styling for a more contemporary profile, while preserving the Rover 75's core structural integrity and suspension geometry. These changes were validated through extensive testing in the UK before final integration in . The debuted in October 2006, marking SAIC's entry into premium branding with the new marque. It was unveiled at the International Auto Show, where initial pricing was announced at 230,000 yuan for the base 1.8T model and up to 320,000 yuan for the premium 2.5 V6 variant, positioning it as a competitor in the mid-to-high-end executive sedan category. Production commenced shortly thereafter at SAIC's facility near , leveraging existing assembly lines previously used for joint-venture models like the , with an initial target output of around 50,000 units annually to build market presence.

Design

Exterior Features

The Roewe 750 is a four-door mid-size sedan featuring a layout and an overall length of 4.865 meters following modifications to its platform. This extended body measures 1.765 meters in width and 1.420 meters in height, providing a balanced proportion that emphasizes executive presence. Key styling adaptations distinguish the Roewe 750 from its predecessor, including a bulkier rear end designed to align with contemporary Chinese market preferences for a more robust and modern aesthetic. The front fascia incorporates two grille variants: a smaller unit for base models and a larger chrome-finished grille on premium 750E versions, which echoes the prominent design of the V8 for added visual distinction. New bumpers and updated lighting clusters further differentiate the exterior, while preserving the elegant, flowing lines of the original platform through subtle aerodynamic refinements. The was extended by 103 mm to 2,849 mm, with the additional length allocated primarily to the rear passenger compartment to enhance spatial proportions without significantly altering the front overhang. This modification, along with revised rear profiling for improved practicality, results in a more versatile sedan suited to urban and highway use.

Interior and Safety Equipment

The Roewe 750 featured a revised interior layout adapted from the platform, with a extended to 2,849 mm—103 mm longer than its predecessor—to provide enhanced rear legroom and overall passenger space for the Chinese luxury market. This adjustment resulted in a more spacious cabin accommodating five passengers comfortably, complemented by higher-quality materials such as cream Canadian and wood detailing on the , gearshift, and doors to appeal to premium buyers. Standard comfort features included leather upholstery options, a multifunction with and reach adjustment, and an system incorporating a , MP3 compatibility, connectivity, and basic navigation via an LCD display. Additional amenities encompassed power windows for all doors, a central with storage in the rear seats, and an electric , contributing to a tastefully finished and supportive seating environment. The premium 750E variant elevated these elements with standard wood trim accents, heated front seats, and electrically adjustable driver's seat with memory functions, further enhancing luxury appeal. Safety equipment drew from the reinforced body structure of the base, incorporating front driver and passenger airbags as standard, along with (ABS) integrated with (EBD). (ESC), also known as vehicle stability control, was included to maintain handling integrity, while optional front side airbags and traction control were available on higher trims for added protection. Rear parking radar and child door locks rounded out the passive and active safety measures.

Powertrain

Engine Options

The Roewe 750 was equipped with two engine options, both derived from British technology and adapted for production by in . The lineup featured a turbocharged 1.8-liter inline-four and a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter V6, providing a balance of performance and refinement suited to the executive sedan segment. These engines were produced at SAIC's facilities to meet local requirements and regulatory standards. The 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four, designated as the 18K4G, originated from the family, with SAIC modifications including turbocharging for enhanced output. It featured a double overhead (DOHC) configuration and electronic (EFI) system, delivering 160 horsepower (118 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 215 Nm of between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm. Displacement measured 1,796 cm³, with four cylinders and 16 valves. This engine was paired with either a five-speed manual or , emphasizing responsive acceleration in urban and highway driving. The 2.5-liter V6, coded 25K4F, was based on the KV6 architecture and mounted transversely to fit the front-wheel-drive platform. With a displacement of 2,497 cm³, it incorporated a DOHC setup with 24 valves and EFI, producing 184 horsepower (135 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 240 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. This configuration offered smoother operation and higher refinement compared to the four-cylinder, appealing to buyers seeking a premium driving experience. Like the 1.8T, it was available with five-speed manual or automatic transmissions. For the Chinese market, SAIC localized production of both engines at its and plants, incorporating adaptations such as revised systems to comply with Euro 4 emissions standards upon the model's 2006 launch. These changes ensured adherence to national regulations while maintaining compatibility with 95-octane unleaded fuel prevalent in . Ricardo International provided engineering support for the adaptation, optimizing it for local assembly and durability. Under NEDC testing, the engines achieved combined fuel efficiency of approximately 8-10 L/100 km for the 1.8T variant and around 10 L/100 km for the 2.5 V6, varying by transmission and driving conditions. These figures reflected SAIC's efforts to balance power with moderate efficiency in a mid-size sedan.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The Roewe 750 featured a standard 5-speed sourced from Warner, which replaced the original JATCO unit used in the to enhance reliability and smoothness in shifting. This gearbox was paired with the vehicle's options, providing seamless power delivery in urban and driving conditions. Some variants also offered a 5-speed for the 1.8T , though the automatic was the predominant choice across the lineup. The drivetrain configuration was , utilizing a layout derived from the platform but adapted for local manufacturing. Suspension consisted of independent MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, with tuning adjustments made to better suit the varied road surfaces in , improving ride comfort and stability over potholes and uneven pavement. This setup contributed to composed handling, though the car's emphasized front-end grip during acceleration. Performance metrics highlighted the integration of the transmission and with the powertrains; the 1.8T variant achieved 0-100 km/h in approximately 11.5 seconds with a top speed of 205 km/h, while the 2.5L V6 model reached 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h. These figures reflected efficient delivery through the front wheels, suitable for mid-size sedan duties in the Chinese market. The braking system employed ventilated front discs and solid rear discs, integrated with an (ABS) as standard equipment to ensure controlled stopping power and prevent wheel lockup on slippery surfaces. This configuration provided adequate deceleration for the vehicle's curb weight, enhancing safety in everyday driving scenarios.

Variants

Base and Premium Models

The Roewe 750 was introduced in two initial variants in October 2006, comprising a base model and a premium 750E trim, both sharing the core platform derived from the but with distinct powertrains and equipment levels. The base 750 model featured a 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 160 horsepower, paired with cloth , a basic audio system, and a smaller front grille design. It was priced at approximately 230,000 yuan and offered a five-speed as an option alongside the standard automatic, appealing to buyers seeking an accessible entry into the executive sedan segment. In contrast, the premium 750E variant was equipped with a 2.5-liter delivering 184 horsepower, leather interior trim, a larger premium grille reminiscent of the V8's design, and advanced features including headlights, parking sensors, and 18-inch alloy wheels as standard. This model, priced at around 320,000 yuan, targeted executive buyers with its enhanced luxury and technology, such as a phone system and DVD entertainment, while using a five-speed exclusively. These trims launched simultaneously, establishing the Roewe 750's positioning as a refined mid-size sedan with options for varying levels of sophistication.

Facelift and Hybrid Versions

In 2011, the Roewe 750 underwent a minor facelift that refreshed its exterior with a new front bumper, redesigned headlights incorporating daytime running lights, and updated rear light clusters, while removing the previous chrome bar from the grille. The interior received enhancements including a completely redesigned and improved materials for a more modern cabin feel. Engine options remained unchanged, with the 1.8-liter turbocharged inline-four producing 160 horsepower and the 2.5-liter V6 delivering 184 horsepower. The facelift coincided with the introduction of a hybrid variant in late 2011, building on a concept unveiled at the 2007 Beijing Motor Show. This petrol-electric system paired the 1.8-liter turbo engine with a 20-kilowatt (approximately 27 horsepower) electric motor, achieving a combined output of around 200 horsepower, supported by a lithium-ion battery and regenerative braking for energy recovery. The setup included high-pressure hybrid technology and a stop-start system, improving fuel economy to about 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers—a more than 20 percent savings over the standard model. Hybrid production was limited, positioning it as a niche offering within the Roewe lineup, while the facelifted model helped extend the 750's lifecycle until its discontinuation in 2016.

Market and Legacy

Sales and Production in China

The Roewe 750 was manufactured exclusively at SAIC Motor's facilities in Shanghai, China, from its launch in late 2006 until production ceased in 2016, with cumulative output exceeding 50,000 units over the model's lifespan. Peak annual production occurred in 2007, reaching approximately 13,800 units, before stabilizing at lower volumes in subsequent years as market dynamics shifted. In the Chinese domestic market, the Roewe 750 served as Roewe's flagship mid-size sedan, positioned to compete directly with established joint-venture models such as the Buick Regal and Volkswagen Passat B6 in the executive segment. Priced between 231,800 and 276,800 yuan at launch, it targeted middle-market buyers seeking premium features derived from its Rover 75 heritage. However, it increasingly faced stiff competition from emerging domestic brands like Geely and BYD, which offered more modern designs and lower pricing. Limited exports occurred under the MG 750 badge to markets including Taiwan, Chile, and Egypt starting around 2007, but these were discontinued after a short period due to poor sales. Sales performance reflected initial enthusiasm followed by an overall decline, with 4,676 units sold in 2011, dropping sharply to 2,319 in 2012, increasing slightly to 3,109 in 2013, then falling to 1,342 in 2014, 158 in 2015, and just 9 in 2016. Production officially ended in November 2016, with the introduced as its compact sedan successor later that year.

Reception and End of Production

The Roewe 750 received generally positive critical reception upon its launch, with reviewers highlighting its retention of the British-inspired ride quality and solid build from the platform. In a 2006 first drive, AROnline praised the model's smooth and comfortable ride, enhanced by a lengthened for better rear passenger space, along with solid handling and high-speed stability that made it an enjoyable drive despite adaptations for Chinese roads. Auto Express echoed this in 2007, awarding three out of five stars and commending the capable and premium feel of the interior, including supportive seats and trim, while noting its ability to absorb bumpy surfaces effectively. However, criticisms focused on build inconsistencies and the platform's age even early on. Auto Express pointed out uneven panel gaps, particularly around the front wings, which detracted from the overall quality impression. AROnline also noted softer suspension settings that introduced some body wallow and a perceived dilution of the original Rover's character, alongside minor issues like wind noise and brake feel. By the mid-2010s, as the model reached the end of its facelifted run, reviewers like AROnline described it as competent but ultimately too tied to its 1990s roots amid evolving market demands. The 750's discontinuation in November 2016 marked the definitive end of the production lineage after 18 years since its 1998 debut, symbolizing SAIC Motor's initial foray into global acquisition and brand-building following the 2005 MG Rover collapse. SAIC had acquired the tooling and intellectual property rights, launching the brand with the 750 as its to showcase engineering improvements by ex-MG Rover and international teams. This effort influenced SAIC's subsequent models by demonstrating the viability of platform resurrection for premium sedans, though the 750's overlap with newer offerings like the 550 and 950 contributed to its phase-out. Car News reported the final units carried prices from 162,800 to 251,800 yuan, underscoring its role in establishing Roewe's reputation for refined, imported-inspired vehicles. Key factors in the model's decline included its increasingly outdated platform—last significantly updated in —and intensifying competition from joint-venture sedans like the and , which offered fresher designs and advanced features. The broader Chinese market's shift toward SUVs in the mid-2010s, driven by affluent urban consumers seeking practicality and status, further eroded demand for mid-size sedans like the 750. Honest John characterized the end as closing a chapter of "hope, failure, and resurrection," with no major international expansion beyond limited enthusiast interest. Culturally, the Roewe 750 was portrayed in Chinese media as a "British-Chinese hybrid," blending Rover's elegant styling with local adaptations to represent SAIC's globalization ambitions. Post-discontinuation, it fostered dedicated owner communities in , where enthusiasts maintain examples through clubs and online forums, preserving its legacy as a bridge between British automotive heritage and emerging Chinese manufacturing prowess. AROnline noted its enduring appeal among those valuing its "what might have been" narrative for the original MG Rover.

References

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