MG took the wraps off the new generation of the MG3, serving as the entry model in its lineup. The subcompact hatchback went under a significant visual and technological makeover and is exclusively available with a new self-charging hybrid powertrain producing a combined 192 hp (143 kW / 194 PS).
We were already familiar with the sharper looks of the new MG3 from earlier teasers. The hatchback that was designed in Shanghai follows the lines of the larger MG5 and MG7 sedans with more aggressive facial features and sculpted bodywork.
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Measuring 4,113 mm (161.9 inches) long, 1,797 mm (70.7 inches) wide, and 1,502 mm (59.1 inches) tall, the new MG3 is slightly longer, wider, and lower compared to its predecessor. According to the company, the increased footprint results in a more spacious cabin and a 293 lt (10.3 cubic feet) boot which is incrementally larger than the cargo space of the rival Toyota Yaris Hybrid.
The fully digital cockpit comprises a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen coming standard with navigation and Android Auto / Apple CarPlay connectivity. We also find an array of toggle-style switches on the center console, four USB ports, and more buttons on the steering wheel. Safety equipment includes the MG Pilot ADAS suite with systems like adaptive cruise control.
Hybrid-Only
Unlike its ICE-only predecessor, the 2024 MG3 is exclusively available in self-charging hybrid form. The Hybrid+ powertrain comprises a four-cylinder 1.5-liter gasoline engine producing 101 hp (75 kW / 102 PS), a single electric motor producing 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS), a 1.83 kWh battery, and a three-speed automatic gearbox. The driver has access to three driving modes – Eco, Standard, and Sport – with the latter allowing a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration in 8 seconds. At the same time, the MG3 has a combined fuel consumption of 4.4 lt/100km (64 mpg UK) and emits 100 g/km CO2.
As for the chassis, MG engineers added new “ultra-high stiffness components” which together with a new suspension setup bring improvements in handling, ride refinement, and noise insulation compared to the outgoing MG3.
Rivals and Pricing
Rivals of the new MG3 that also come with self-charging hybrid setups include the Toyota Yaris, Renault Clio, and Honda Jazz. The rest of the pack in the segment is either available with mild-hybrid powertrains (Peugeot 208, Opel Corsa, and Hyundai i20) or with non-electrified engines (VW Polo, Skoda Fabia, Seat Ibiza).
MG didn’t announce pricing for the new model but it will reportedly start from around £20,000 (about US$25,500) in the UK. An MG spokesperson told Australian media that the new MG3 will be around AU$5,000 (US$3,300) more expensive than the model it replaces when it arrives Down Under in mid-2024.
