Synopsis

Metro, Maestro, Montego and now the new 800 Series of executive saloons make up an Austin Rover range aimed at enhancing the company's sales and reputation at home and abroad. But can the recently renamed Rover Group, headed by Graham Day improve Austin Rover's image for reliability and quality? Top Gear takes a detailed look at the 800 Sterling, puts the 820 Si model up against its rivals and William Woollard assesses how big a task the company faces to win back customers. Chris Goffey's also trying to keep up with the competition racing round the streets of Birmingham at last month's Superprix.