In a far cry from its British heritage, MG Cars is undergoing a resurgence in Asia-Pacific regions under Shanghai-based, Chinese state-owned automaker SAIC Motor. One of its core offerings is the MG3 subcompact hatch, which has won many buyers due to its value-conscious market play when rivals are upping their pricing.
Not to rest on its laurels, the manufacturer is deep into developing its next-generation successor, with leaked patent images and spy shots confirming the compact hatch’s dynamic new look. Want to know more? Read on as we illustratively explore everything that we know to date.
Visual Dynamism
Illustrations Josh Byrnes / Carscoops
Drawing inspiration from its larger MG5 Sedan counterpart, the exterior of the MG3 exudes a sense of dynamic elegance with a shark-nosed front fascia that seamlessly integrates slim, modern headlights and a wide-mouthed grille. The view from the side showcases deep lower door scallops and sweeping creases over the wheel arches, adding a touch of sportiness to its overall demeanor.
Out back, the hatch features a conventional hatch and LED taillamp arrangement with faux corner vents. Moving further down, a rear diffuser panel looks more like an aesthetic add-on than a functional element.
The current, second generation MG3 has been in production since 2011 (Photos MG)
Under The Skin
Recent glimpses of a prototype mule reveal an intriguing interior featuring more pronounced door trim creases and diamond-patterned seats, underscoring the car’s attention to design detail. Unfortunately, the rest of the cabin was covered up to discern what other changes are in store, although we expect many goodies from the larger MG5 Scorpio to filter down.
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In that car, the Peugeot-inspired interior sports a digital instrument cluster with 3D mapping as part of a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup. Other features include wireless charging and phone mirroring, and rhythmic ambient lighting.
Hybrid Propulsion
Under the hood, the MG3 is tipped to offer all-hybrid power, utilizing a 1.5-litre petrol four-cylinder engine, generating 80kW (107 hp) and 142Nm. Complementing this internal combustion engine is a 70kW (94 hp) electric motor, delivering an additional surge with 200Nm of torque from its 2.1kWh lithium-ion battery.
Other powertrain options may be on the cards, depending on the region. However, don’t get your hopes up for an all-electric version, as MG is going down a dedicated platform route for those offerings.
Rivals and Reveal
As the 2024 MG3 gears up for its debut, it enters an arena bustling with pricier competitors. The likes of the Mazda2, Honda Fit/Jazz and Toyota Yaris are formidable rivals, yet it will be intriguing if MG can hold onto its current value equation.
An official debut for Asia-Pacific and European regions will likely occur next year, although that may come sooner if any more patent leaks come to light.
Let us know what you think in the comments below.
Note: The illustrations in this story are not affiliated with, nor have they been endorsed by MG.
