Models from the 7-Series, 5-Series (based on the old rover 75 and 45 respectively) and TF range were on display – the first products since Nanjing Automobile acquired the rights to produce MG cars in 2005. A spokesman said the 7-Series and 5-Series models were not likely to appear in the UK.

Zhang Xin, general manager of MG, said the cars reflected the brand's British heritage which would play an important role in appealing to the international market. “We are devoted to building MG as an international brand whilst keeping it true to its British roots,” Zhang said. “The MG project has been turned around in record time and has shown the world what a Chinese auto maker is capable of. We are confident that this is the first stage in a new strategic direction for Chinese manufacturers."