In addition to the fantastic FRV Crossover, Brilliance also plan to launch the Brilliance FRV Sports model. Previously here at China Car Times we were praying hoping for a the FRV in 1.8T form, but it appears that Brilliance have opted to travel the 1.8 naturally aspirated path for the moment.

Initially it appeared that Brilliance were intent on building an FRV GT, complete with a 1.8 Turbo assisted engine, that could still happen if there were demand for such a vehicle, but the 1.8 Sports version is plenty of poke for the PRC as it is. We still prefer the original FRV GT, complete with the 1.8T, but as it stands, the FRV 1.8 Sports styling is still very appealing.

Will the launch of the FRV Sports encourage SAIC to release the MG3 ZR? We should hope so, the hot hatch market in China is a segment that has yet to be opened, and Chinese manufacturers should be looking towards unopened market segments in what is set to be a difficult 2009.