MG, the ex-British brand now steered by Chinese auto giant SAIC, has pulled the wraps off the all-new MG4 EV. Pitched as the brand’s first global model for 2025, this hatchback is more than just a refresh. It’s a strategic reset aimed at conquering the hyper-competitive Chinese market where its predecessor struggled, while building on its success overseas.
After the previous generation’s sales slowed to a trickle in China, MG is hoping this new model has what it takes to steal attention from a sea of domestic rivals.
A Fresh Look with Practical Choices
The official images show the MG4 EV in a vibrant light purple, contrasted with a clean white roofline and pillars. Its face is sharp and sporty, with aggressive LED headlights and a large, trapezoidal air intake in the bumper that gives it a planted look. The fenders are sculpted to give the car a wider, more muscular stance.
Interestingly, MG’s designers skipped the trendy flush door handles and stuck with traditional ones. They also opted for stylish 17-inch five-spoke rims. While these choices add a touch of everyday practicality and visual flair, they do come at the cost of aerodynamic efficiency, creating a slightly higher drag coefficient. It’s a clear signal that MG prioritized user-friendly design and curb appeal over chasing the absolute lowest drag number.
Around back, the design is clean and modern. A roof spoiler houses the high-mounted brake light, and a rear wiper adds a practical touch often missing on slick-backed EVs. The arrow-shaped taillights are connected by a full-width LED strip, emphasizing the car’s width. Underneath it all, the presence of an independent rear suspension hints at a focus on ride quality and handling.
| Metric | Value | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peak power | 120 | kW | Equivalent to 161 hp |
| Top Speed | 160 | km/h | Electronically limited |
| Battery chemistry | LFP | — | Supplied by Rept Battero Energy; capacity TBD |
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4395/1842/1551 | mm | 108 mm longer than its predecessor |
| Wheelbase | 2,750 | mm | Long for its class |
| Curb weight | 1,485 | kg | Relatively lightweight for an EV |
Under the Hood: A Strategic Shift?
The new MG4 EV is powered by a single electric motor producing 120 kW (161 hp). That’s a noticeable step back from the previous model’s 125 kW standard motor, and a world away from the blisteringly quick 315 kW dual-motor Xpower variant.
This isn’t a downgrade, but a calculated pivot. To compete in China, price is king. By opting for a more modest motor, MG is likely aiming for a compelling price tag that puts efficiency and accessibility first. The battery is a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) pack from Rept Battero Energy. While the capacity isn’t public yet, LFP chemistry is known for its durability, safety, and lower cost compared to nickel-based batteries, reinforcing the focus on value.
A Tough Fight Ahead
The outgoing MG4 sold just 13 units in China in February 2025, a stark reminder of how brutal the Chinese EV market is. This new model is built to challenge established contenders like the BYD Dolphin, Wuling Bingo, and Geely Xingyuan. It’s no secret that in this race, BYD takes the crown, and taking on its popular Dolphin hatchback is a massive undertaking.
This is a critical move for SAIC, a state-owned auto giant that wants to see its most iconic international brand succeed at home. The MG4 is expected to launch in China in April, possibly debuting at the Shanghai Auto Show, with a European release slated for the fourth quarter of 2025. It’s a smart, practical car, but time will tell if it has the magic to carve out a space in the world’s toughest EV market.
