The wraps are off the new MG4 all-electric hatchback, revealed recently by Chinese regulators. This isn’t just a minor refresh. It’s a complete overhaul, boasting a larger footprint and a design that signals MG is hitting the reset button on its entry-level EV. Given the current MG4’s lukewarm sales in China, this bold move seems strategic.
MG, a brand with British heritage now under the wing of state-owned SAIC Motor since 2005, hasn’t quite captured the hearts of Chinese EV buyers. However, its electric offerings have found considerable success in markets like India, Thailand, and the EU.
A Bigger, Bolder Stance
The new hatchback measures 4395 mm in length, 1842 mm in width, and 1551 mm in height, with a generous wheelbase of 2,750 mm. To put that into perspective, the outgoing MG4 clocked in at 4287 mm long, 1836 mm wide, and 1516 mm tall, with a 2,705 mm wheelbase. That’s a significant bump across the board, making the new MG4 108 mm longer and featuring a 45 mm longer wheelbase. This growth spurt points to a completely new model rather than a simple facelift.
Design Evolution
MG has clearly put in the work. The redesigned front end, doors, and rear are complemented by a reworked greenhouse structure. The overall aesthetic appears to draw inspiration from the MG3, scaled up, and infused with design cues from the exciting MG Cyberster. Around the back, a wide light strip with distinctive arrow-shaped lights unmistakably echoes the Cyberster’s futuristic flair.
The new MG4 rear with Cyberster reminiscence.
Powertrain and Performance
Under the hood, the new MG4 gets its juice from a TZ180XS1001 electric motor, delivering a peak output of 120 kW. It can hit a top speed of 160 km/h and tips the scales with a curb weight of 1,485 kg. Interestingly, the current MG4 features a slightly more powerful 125 kW motor but carries more heft at 1,641 kg.
The battery chemistry will be lithium iron phosphate (LFP), supplied by Rept Battero Energy. While the exact capacity remains under wraps, the choice of LFP suggests a focus on durability and cost-effectiveness, common in the competitive Chinese EV market.
Navigating the Chinese Market
This new MG4 was unveiled by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), a mandatory step for any vehicle hoping to hit the market. In a somewhat confusing twist, MG also applied for additional badges for this car, including MG3 and E5. This could be a play to test market reactions or simply a reflection of internal indecision on the final branding.
Despite its global success, the current MG4 has had a tough run in China. After an initial burst of sales in mid-2022, its momentum quickly fizzled out. The brutal Chinese EV market sees it competing against established players like the BYD Dolphin, Wuling Bingo, and Geely Xingyuan. To illustrate the challenge, the MG4 managed to sell only 13 units in China in February. However, the broader MG brand saw a 17.6% year-over-year increase in February sales, moving 7,002 cars, primarily driven by its ICE models, the MG5 and MG7.
This next-generation MG4 looks set to tackle the challenges of the competitive Chinese EV landscape head-on, with a fresh design and improved package aimed at winning over consumers. The company’s decision to essentially relaunch its entry-level EV with a completely new model highlights the intense pressure and rapid evolution within China’s automotive sector.
