MG4 Review

​Introduction & model history

To many casual observers, MG is one of the least likely names to be leading the electric car revolution. Famed for its quintessentially British two-seater sports cars, its reinvention as an electric car brand still comes as a surprise to many new buyers. But here we are, almost two decades after Chinese automotive giant SAIC acquired the naming rights and battery-powered MGs are among the most in-demand affordable electric cars in the industry. MG is outselling big names like ŠKODA and Land Rover, and has gone from being a rank outsider in the business to being one of the hottest properties. 

And if you thought the MG 5 and ZS were perfect examples of how to make great affordable electric cars, then the MG4 has really moved the game on. Aimed squarely at the Volkswagen ID.3 (the dimensions are almost identical), the MG4’s purpose-built foundations will eventually form the basis of further all-electric MGs in the same way that Volkswagen’s ID. platform sits underneath a range of cars, from the ID. Buzz to the Cupra Born. 

The MG4 is clearly the sharpest and most distinctive electric MG yet. The edges look crisp, the detailing neatly resolved and the whole shape of the car looks more family hatchback than compact SUV, we're particularly fond of it. The posher Trophy models have a contrasting colour roof and distinctive roof spoilers, as well as a funky rear light pattern.

Inside, the MG4’s interior feels up to date thanks to an open-plan dashboard arrangement and two screens, one in front of the driver and the other for the touchscreen infotainment screen. Unlike Volkswagen, MG has opted to install a row of physical buttons instead of the haptic switches and slider which makes it easier to use on the move. It’s easy to find a good driving position, there’s decent space in the back for passengers and the boot, at 363 litres, is of average size but it’s a good shape.

There are three battery sizes – 51kWh, 64kWh and 77kWh – with the smaller pack, called Standard Range, giving an official WLTP figure of 217 miles, which should translate to around 190 miles of real world range. The 64kWh pack, named Long Range, gives a claimed 281 miles in SE spec, while the racier Trophy model sees that figure dip to 270 miles. There’s also a high performance MG4 called XPower which gets the same 64kWh pack, while in 2023 MG added an even larger 77kWh pack and calls this the Extended Range. This version gives a claimed range of up to 323 miles.

Fancy an MG4 on a salary sacrifice scheme? Read how to get an MG4 tax-free here.

The MG4 is able to accept a rapid DC charge at speeds of up to 117kW for the 51kWh version or 135kW with the 64kWh Long Range. The 77kWh XPower can accept 140kW and the 77kWh Extended Range can accept 144kW.On the road, the MG4 delivers a sportier and more engaging drive than both the MG5 and the ZS with its sharper steering, and the ride is good. It doesn’t feel quite as composed as a Volkswagen ID.3 or as thrilling as a Cupra Born, though. 

 Just like with battery packs there’s a wide choice of power outputs, too. The 51kWh Standard Range gets a 167bhp electric motor on the rear axle, while the 64kWh Long Range up this to 201bhp. The Extended Range gives long distance and plenty of power with 242bhp, and speed freaks will like XPower with its dual electric motors which push out a stonking 429bhp!

If that wasn’t impressive enough the MG4 is keenly priced. The range starts at £26,995 and rises to £36,495 – that low sub-£30,000 entry price is a key reason why MG has sold so many 4s in the UK. In fact, we’re so impressed with the MG4’s value for money that we gave it the Best Money Saving Electric Car gong in our Electrifying.com New Car Awards 2024.

Verdict

This car is a bit of a game changer for MG – if not the electric car market in general. It's not perfect, but is a very competent family car which drives well and has a decent range and charging speeds. More than that, the MG4 is priced at a level that makes it a genuinely appealing option for those keen to buy their first electric car and make the switch. We don’t think there is a better value electric car currently on sale.