Magnificent MG4 EV – First Drive Review.

Magnificent MG4 EV – First Drive Review.              

The all-new MG4 EV is the first MG model based on the intelligent new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) developed by MG’s parent company SAIC Motor. Designed for a wide range of vehicles, the MSP can be used flexibly in models across different vehicle segments, from hatchbacks to SUV’s and sports cars – suitable for wheelbases ranging from 2,650 to 3,100mm. SAIC Motor has also revealed that its new integrated battery structure has a height of just 110mm, enhancing roadholding and driver engagement even further.

A Winning Combination.

Battery-powered MG’s are among the most desirable affordable electric cars in the industry, and the brand has gone from being a rank outsider to being one of the hottest properties in the business. The new MG4 offers drivers a winning combination of innovation, practicality, value and fun. It is an affordable compact EV without compromise, centred around four key qualities: space, technology, affordability and driving quality.

Compact, But Spacious.

The MG4 EV is a fully-electric family hatchback that has the potential to cause a huge stir in the electric car market. The rear-wheel drive MG4 is similar in size to the VW ID.3 and CUPRA Born, and it also counts the new Renault Megane E-TECH and Kia Niro EV amongst its key competitors in the fast-growing EV car market. The MG4 is the sharpest and most distinctive MG yet, and it is also packed with market-leading technology, comprehensive levels of standard equipment, and advanced safety features at a price that represents excellent value for money. The MG4 offers exceptional storage, cabin and boot space within its compact exterior dimensions thanks to its stretched 2,705mm wheelbase.

Trim and Battery Options.

The MG4 is available in three trim levels from launch – Excite Standard Range, Excite Long Range, and Exclusive Long Range with pricing starting from just €27,495 (excluding dealer delivery charges, and inclusive of VRT relief and an SEAI grant for private customers). The MG4 Excite Standard Range employs a rear-mounted motor producing 170PS (168bhp), which is fed by a 51kWh battery, allowing for a 0-100km/h sprint time of just 7.7-seconds, and a maximum driving range of 350km on a combined driving cycle. Upgrading to the Long Range (64kWh) battery in Excite and Exclusive variants increases power to 203PS (200bhp), and the maximum driving range increases to 435km and 450km respectively. A torque rating of 250Nm applies across all variants, as does a maximum towing weight of 500kg. All MG4’s have 150kW rapid charging capability, so a 10-80% top-up takes from as little as 35 minutes. Use a 7kW home wallbox and it will take seven and a half hours (51kWh) or nine hours (64kWh) to fully replenish.

Hugely-Impressive Drivers Car.

At the recent Irish media launch of the new MG4 I was given the opportunity to drive an entry-level Excite Standard Range model for a few hours, and to say that I was hugely impressed by the breadth of talents on offer would be a huge understatement. Excellent driving dynamics, a comfortable cabin, and impressive efficiency that delivers genuinely usable real-world range are facts that are well worth shouting about, as is the comprehensive 7-year/150,000km warranty that MG provide across their model range. The MG4 is seriously fun to drive, and its 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive configuration and low centre of gravity provide the car with great body control, agile handling characteristics, and lots of grip. Four modes of brake regeneration are available: Low, Medium, Strong and Adaptive, so it is easy to find the mode that suits an individual’s driving style. Sitting in the driver’s seat, it is clear that MG has premium aspirations, and has looked to some German brands for inspiration. The cabin design looks modern, intuitive and minimalist, with a jutting ledge for the gear selector that leaves a big open space below. An impressive array of standard equipment in Excite trim includes LED headlights and rear lights, 7” digital driver display, 10.25” colour touchscreen, rear parking sensors, 17” alloy wheels, MG Pilot drive assist system, and an electronic parking brake, along with auto start & stop which does away with the need to push a starter button.

Incredible Affordability.

The all-new MG4 EV is set to become a sure-fire hit for the revitalised MG brand, as it offers cutting-edge technology, a striking exterior design, a well-appointed cabin, impressive efficiency, and solid practicality, along with incredible affordability. I look forward to spending a week behind the wheel of a new MG4 EV in the months ahead, and I will publish my full road-test review then. The new MG4 is available to order now.

Text & Images by a Motoring Matters contributor.