MG have made a bit of a name for themselves producing affordable EVs, and pitting themselves against more established makers charging a premium for their EVs. MG’s main models that have attracted attention are their SUVs, understandable given their popularity. The MG4 EV has also proved a great hit with buyers. However, the non-electric MG3 (available when MG started under its new Chinese owner) remains in the price lists.
This five-door hatchback is smart and equipment laden and by today’s standards a bit of a bargain. The two models start from £13,820 with standard equipment including powered and heated door mirrors, air conditioning, power windows, DAB sound system with Apple Car Play, Bluetooth, remote steering wheel controls, eight-inch colour touchscreen, hill hold and auto door locking. The higher trim version at £15,520 adds navigation, cruise control, parking camera and sports seats.
The Achilles heel of the MG3 is its engine, a four-cylinder, 1.5-litre petrol unit that is best described as old school technology. Mated to a manual five-speed gearbox the combination is adequate, but lacks sufficient power and at cruising speed you always find yourself going for a sixth gear that isn’t there.
At 70mph the MG sits at around 3,200 rpm, which makes things a tad busy where a more relaxed gearing pattern would help. The need to work the engine also doesn’t help the economy, my mainly local driving week saw a 39mpg average.
On cross country roads the MG comes alive with decent steering and a slightly firm suspension set-up that keeps the car sitting quite flat through energetic cornering. The power is at the higher end of the engine’s rev range and with a nice gear change makes it a fun drive.
As an example, the admittedly more adept and capable Vauxhall Corsa will set you back £19,275, that’s a substantial difference. The Corsa will depreciate less, but keep the MG for a longer time though and allied to that cheaper price tag it makes for an appealing proposition.
Despite some misgivings the MG is an endearing car, it handles well, is good fun and very well priced. It’s comfortable with a good driving position and for those on a budget the cheapest way to get a new car that is a bit different to the normal mass of budget cars, and actually doesn’t look like a budget model.
Word by Mark Slack
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