MG, that typically British brand made its fortunes by providing relatively affordable performance options for those drivers who would otherwise have struggled to attain the rarifed heights of true sports car driving.

This philosophy stretched from the vintage years right to modern times with cars like the MG Midget, MGB and the inimitable Magnette ZB of the classic years.

But with the collapse of the Rover empire, the MG brand was sucked into the whirlpool of oblivion and many thought that it would never emerge.

But in the automotive world you should never say never because the brand re-emerged under Chinese ownership to do just what MG does best - provide sporty cars for the masses.

Unfortunately, you will not find any two-seat sportsters in the range but there are some zestful cars that do their utmost to re-create at least some of the old MG magic.

And one of the latest is a family-friendly SUV, the MG GS.

Launched at The London Motor Show in May 2016, the model surpassed 500 unit sales in just 176 days - reaching the milestone faster than any of the manufacturer's other vehicles, even its supermini, the MG3.

The success of the MG GS demonstrates market demand for a fun, easy to live with SUV at a sensible price.

Like many others of its kind, this SUV makes sense - commuting, shopping, school run and weekend adventure all rolled into one.

And a big benefit is that its handling is worthy of the MG name. Best not to chuck it around like a TC of 1945, but experience the best of its abilities and it is plain that it delivers agility and is an engaging drive.

It is very comfortable with sports seats in the front and adjustable seats in the back that recline and fold completely flat.

I drove the GS Excite model that can be had for £17,495. With a 1.5 four-cylinder petrol engine delivering 166bhp this is a neat, fast little number with 118bhp on tap.

Having driven all of the "Chinese" MGs one thing was abundantly clear - the build-quality and standard of finish on these cars has improved tremendously.

With three trim levels offering customers plenty of specification at great prices, the MG GS aims to be very competitive in its class. With bags of space, a 1.5 turbo petrol engine, the option of manual or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) and tons of spec, it certainly makes a statement.

Automatic headlights, air con, an intelligent stop-start engine and cruise control come as standard.