Specialist driver training centres in Germany will teach advanced handling skills using British MG sporting cars.

German motoring organisation, ADAC, the largest in Europe, picked the British brand ahead of some mighty German competition. It will use a fleet of 100 MG ZR hot hatch cars at its 60 training centres around the country. Drivers will learn the safe way to handle a high performance car, on ADAC’s purpose-built handling areas, which simulate difficult driving conditions such as heavy rain, ice and snow.

Around 140,000 drivers a year choose to improve their knowledge and skill by visiting an ADAC centre.

"The MG ZR was selected for its superb handling feel and powerful performance. It also has loads of youth appeal, that will attract young drivers to the training centres," said Rod Ramsay, MG Rover managing director, sales and marketing.

ADAC instructors will use the MG ZR 160, which has excellent driving dynamics, powerful acceleration (0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds) and a top speed of 131 mph.

The first MG ZRs arrive in March, at the newly opened ADAC centre in Grevenbroich, near Düsseldorf. Based on an area of approximately 12 hectares, this is currently the most modern and sophisticated of the ADAC driving safety centres.

Commenting on its new number one status, sales and marketing director Rod Ramsay, said: "The popularity of the MG ZR continues to grow and represents the brand’s young-at-heart position. Though the top of the range ZR 160 leads the range in the performance stakes, racing to 60mph in 7.4 seconds, and onto a top speed of 131mph, it’s the entry model ZR 105 that is the one that is turning young heads. Its appealing price, great performance and high standard equipment specification, means it enjoys two thirds of the model’s sales performance."

The 2004 MG ZR has a new exterior appearance, with a new style of bumpers, clear lens halogen headlamps and integrated front grille design which are now more reminiscent of the MG SV supercar. The ZR has improved dynamics for a great driving experience. Inside, the high quality and stylish cabin has also been revised with a new fascia design, rotary air vents, a new centre console, soft touch switchgear and an array of technology features.

The MG ZR 105 is available from £10,395 with a 7E / T1 (Thatcham approved) ABI insurance rating with the top-of-the-range MG ZR 160 available from £14,995. Since launch, sales of the ZR have exceeded 70,000 cars.