Review: 2020 MG3

Bang for your buck - that's what MG offers with their compact hatchback, the MG3.

It's the entry model and with a price tag from under $17k, you might not expect much, but will be pleasantly surprised when you see what you'll get.

Initial Impression

You've probably seen them drive around the city, wondering which kind of car it was. The MG3 - from the brand MG - has been on the Australian market for a few years now, but doesn't get much attention. Strange actually, because their entry model the MG3 sells almost 500 units a month, which is more than most its rivals.

So this is the MG3, a Chinese-built car with a British badge from a brand that has been around since 1924. Quite a bit of heritage there, but their current line-up is everything but old school. This MG3 is the smallest of three models they have for sale in Australia, and it's great value, fun to drive and looks modern and sleek.

Right away, you'll notice the 16" allow wheels, sharp front with LED 'London Eye' daytime running lights and pronounced rear end. Though it looks compact, there is a lot more room inside than you might imagine. Yet its size makes the MG3 perfect for city driving, so let's take it for a spin.

Driveability

It's not often that you'll find a car that only has a 4-speed automatic gearbox, but the MG3 has one. Paired with a 1.5L petrol engine that puts out 82kW of power and 150Nm of torque, it might not be the quickest off the line or capable of doing high speed runs, but it has enough power to zip around town. Put it in manual mode and you get to control the gear shift, which is good fun with the 4-speed gearbox.

With a length of 4055mm, a width of 1729mm and height of 1504mm, it’s a pretty compact little unit. The fuel consumption is kept low at just 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres. Unfortunately, the MG3 doesn't come with many safety features and is lacking auto-emergency braking (AEB) which results in an 3 star ANCAP safety rating. It does come with rear view camera and parking sensors though, which is a big plus.

Liveability

There isn't much going on inside the cabin of the MG3, some might even call it minimalistic. But what it there, works well and is easy to use. The 8-inch colour infotainment screen features navigation and supports Apple CarPlay. There is a cup holder, small storage area and a USB port - all you need for a short drive.

Most of the interior is made out of hard wearing plastics, but the steering wheel is partly finished in nice leather with perforated edges for a sporty look. The seats are comfortable and offer good support with plenty of options for adjustment. The best part is that even with a taller driver there is still space on the rear seat and you get 307 litres of cargo space (1081L with the back seat folded), which is plenty if you really went all out at the local supermarket, or even if you have to pick up a load from Bunnings.

Cost

The price tag of the MG3 is probably its biggest attraction. It's base model - the Core - starts at just under $17k. For an extra $200 you can add navigation, or if you want to spend an extra $2000, you'll drive away in the Excite, which adds the rear spoiler, 16-inch two-tone machines allow wheels and upgrades you from 4 to 6 speakers.

For a fancy colour like the Excite we drove, (metallic blue, silver or red) you need to add another $300.

All new MGs come with a comprehensive 7-year unlimited kilometre manufacturer warranty as standard, plus you'll receive MG Motor Roadside Assist.

Conclusion

You cannot deny that the MG3 looks fresh, from front to back. It comes with a badge that boosts a long history, yet fits with the modern lifestyle many young Australian have and who need an affordable car to match.

It's the price that will attract most buyers of course, because there is very little competition out there offering a similar package for a the same - let alone less - money. The MG3 is a value proposition you can hardly say no to.