ROVER has unveiled a couple of new models which it hopes will give its sales a much-needed shot in the arm.

It is an interesting move. Firstly because Rover is pinning its faith in an Indian-built new city car which takes the place of the old Metro, and in another that provides off-roading looks but without the 4x4 means of going off-road.

So we have the CityRover which will feature four derivatives powered by a 1.4-litre engine, and the Rover Streetwise, which is also called an "urban on-roader" because of its chunky, high-ride looks, and which provides a range of power units.

Both are priced at the cheaper end of the market which is another interesting move, because Rover has always aimed its models at the higher-profile buyers. On top of this, the marketing drive is signalled at younger drivers.

The CityRover price range falls between £6,500 and £8,500, and all models are fitted with the 1.4-litre 85Ps petrol engine matched to a five-speed manual gearbox, and have five doors. The pricing strategy means that it still compares favourably with rivals offering less powerful engines and only three-door models.

Nonetheless, it will come up against a considerable variety of styles and sizes within the city car catalogue, in particular the Peugeot 106, Citroen Saxo twins, Ford Ka, Vauxhall Agila, Volkswagen Lupo and the Fiat Seicento. It is a formidable range yet Rover is confident that the CityRover has more cabin space than most, and that is more user-friendly. Rover says that it also sees its new city car as an alternative model to those in the next level up, namely the Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris and Fiat Punto.

The key to the CityRover's space advantage over many of the competitors is its long 2400mm wheelbase and tall build (rising to semi-multi-purpose vehicle height). Also the driving position is improved by high-mounted seating at the front, while rear seats are even higher to give back seat passengers (or drivers!) a clearer view of what's ahead.

The four derivatives carry the names Solo, Sprite, Select and Style. The entry level Solo has standard features such as driver's airbag, radio-cassette with four speakers, clock, lockable glovebox, variable intermittent windscreen wipers, rear wash/wipe, tinted glass, power point, boot light, four speed heater and interior releases for the tailgate and fuel cap. The Sprite is more sporty, with alloy wheels, leather sports style steering wheel, front fog lamps and rear spoiler, as well as powered steering remote central locking, tachometer and audio system with CD player. Select takes a step up with powered windows, air conditioning, while the top-of-the-range Style adds anti-lock braking and a passenger airbag.

Streetwise is viewed as a specialised range based on the Rover 25 platform, but meant to significantly broaden Rover's appeal.

It features large wheels and raised suspension for greater ground clearance and a higher viewpoint. There are robust moulded bumpers, wheel arch protectors and rubbing strips all in a scratch-resistant dark grey-grained finish. Beefy, standard fit roof bars on all models offer an extra carrying facility.

Streetwise has its own specially-designed seating and trim treatment, with individual front and rear storage plus individual sports-style seating for four as standard, but also keeps a 60/40 split folding rear seat. When it goes on sale next month Streetwise will start at around £9,000 and will be available with a selection of petrol and diesel power units, various transmissions and three trim levels. First engines available will be the twin-cam alloy 1.4-litre K Series petrol engine in both 84Ps and 103Ps tune plus the 101Ps L Series turbo-diesel unit, all with five-speed manual transmissions. These will be followed by an additional petrol engine with manual gearbox, and a 1.8-litre K Series unit with Stepspeed CVT automatic transmission. Inside, Streetwise has, as standard, a unique four-seat configuration, with front and rear sports style individual seats. Between the rear seat cushions is a special central console with storage cubbies.

For those needing five seats, there is the option of a normal bench rear seat, with 60/40 split folding squabs and three lap and diagonal seat belts.

Other special Streetwise interior design details include a new centre console with new switchpack and improved storage plus a new floor console incorporating the gear lever, window lift switches and rear ashtray. Finally, reflecting the role of Streetwise in developing the Rover brand, it is the first model to use a new modernised version of the classic Rover "Viking Ship" badge.

Updated: 11:27 Friday, July 25, 2003