Park that Toyota Yaris! MG promises new MG3 petrol-electric hybrid will deliver higher performance and lower emissions
MG Motor Australia has revealed how it will reconquer the light-car segment Down Under following the launch of the all-new third-generation MG3 at the Geneva motor show.
The big news is instead of a mild update of the current model – that remains Australia’s best-selling light-car – the new MG3 will come with an advanced petrol-electric hybrid powertrain that sets new standards for performance and efficiency in the segment.
However, there is a catch. When it arrives Down Under the cheapest model will cost around $5000 more than the model it replaces ($19,990-$20,990 drive-away).
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MG thinks you’ll still buy one over the much cheaper 2024 Kia Picanto when the new range arrives in mid-2024.
Revealed in Europe with an advanced hybrid powertrain that pumps out an impressive 143kW, the 2024 MG3 Hybrid+ can provide brief bursts of all-electric driving and is claimed to average 4.4L/100km (WLTP).
That power output comprehensively outshines the similarly-sized, but more expensive, Toyota Yaris Hybrid ($30,190 plus ORCs) and delivers 85kW, although the small Japanese hatch consumes much less fuel at 3.3L/100km.
Speaking of size, along with the price hike you now get more for your money with the MG3 growing in size in almost all directions. It now measures 4113mm (+58mm) long, 1797mm (+68mm) wide and 1502mm (-7mm) high, riding on a 50mm-longer (2570mm) wheelbase.
That bodes well inside for more space for occupants, while the new city-hatch now has the largest boot in its class (293 litres).
In Europe, the new MG3 comes in three well-equipped grades – Standard, Comfort and Luxury – but even the most basic versions will offer a twin-screen dashboard with a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster combined with a 10.25-inch infotainment touch-screen.
Both screens are claimed to benefit from enhanced graphics and improved responses. A row of piano-key shortcuts below the touch-screen have been retained to reduce driver distraction.
Sat-nav is now also standard, as is Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus the car-maker’s MG iSMART connectivity system including Bluetooth.
There are also four USB ports, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera. Higher grades then add leather seat trim, keyless entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, plus 360-degree cameras.
Safety has also taken a huge stride forward over the current ANCAP-unrated MG3, with the addition of autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep assist, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist.
Most owners should be wowed, by the new MG3 Hybrid+ powertrain that blends a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine – which alone produces 75kW/128Nm – with a 100kW electric motor powered by small 1.83kWh battery.
Driving the front wheels via a three-speed – yes, three-speed – automatic transmission, the hybrid powertrain produces a surprisingly punchy 143kW total output, providing exceptionally brisk (for the segment) 0-100km/h acceleration in eight seconds. Top speed is 170km/h.
MG also said the new powertrain’s electric motor is responsible for most ‘high-load’ driving, including hard acceleration, with the petrol engine merely supporting it before taking over at higher speeds.
In addition to higher levels of comfort and refinement, MG says the new Hybrid+ can travel on pure-electric power alone for short distances.
As well as being more powerful and quicker, engineers say the MG3 Hybrid+ will be much quieter with the addition of greater sound deadening, while new engine and suspension mounts are claimed to further slash nasty noise, vibration and general harshness levels.
A stiffer chassis and lighter suspension components are all claimed to improve grip and agility in a bid for class honours when it comes to its drive.
When it arrives in Europe later this year the new MG3 will be available with a choice of new alloy wheel designs and a fresh colour palette including York White, St Moritz Blue, Flaming Red, Morning Yellow, Pearl Black, Blade Silver and Hampstead Grey.
More details of its Australian debut will be released in the build-up to its mid-2024 debut.
