MG MG4 Buyer's guide review

MG, originally known as Morris Garages, was founded as a tribute to William Morris, an influential figure in the British automotive industry. The company experienced financial difficulties in the late 20th century, leading to bankruptcy. In an effort to revive the brand, MG moved its operations to China. However, they did not gain any success until the company decided to capitalize on the growing demand for electric vehicles.

In 2022, MG launched its first electric vehicle, the MG4. It was cleverly named to stand out from competitors and honor the brand's British heritage. The MG4 is available in three trim levels: SE Standard Range, SE Long Range, and Trophy Long Range. In 2023, MG introduced the MG4 X Power, an enhanced model of their initial electric vehicle. Unlike the standard MG4, the X Power comes only in its standard trim. So customers have the option to add on various features to customize their vehicle. Today, we delve into the 2023 MG4 X Power encapsulating styling and comfort.

Unlike many electric vehicles that provide a frunk space for storage, the MG4 X Power lacks this feature. It is due to the presence of washer fluids, a battery, controls, and other electrical components under the hood. However, it includes a vehicle-to-load option, allowing users to charge devices like phones or laptops using the vehicle's charging outlet. The MG4 X Power, introduced in 2023 as an update to the 2022 MG4, offers significant advancements and some design differences. The original MG4 model had a 61 kWh battery pack, a 203-horsepower motor, and a range of about 360 km, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The upgraded MG4 X Power has a 64 kWh battery with a 435-horsepower motor, achieving 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds. Despite the increased power, the range is only slightly reduced to 320 km. The MG4 X Power generates 600 Nm of torque, providing a performance comparable to much more expensive vehicles.

Talking about the charging of the MG4 X Power, there is a daytime running light (DRL) inside the charging port. While overnight charging is an option, using a 150 kWh fast charger can recharge the vehicle in under 30 minutes depending on the charger. The charging speed, power output, and torque of the X power are amazing compared to its predecessor, MG4.

The electric vehicle has an elegant design. There is an eye-catching bonnet with a distinct intent. The light is remarkable with the overall design and the borders although it is less impressive when viewed in isolation. Compared to the panel gaps often seen in vehicles like Tesla, the craftsmanship is perfect, highlighting the quality of a vehicle manufactured in China. At the bottom of the front, there is a vent designed to cool the battery packs and motors, similar to other electric vehicles. To maintain the traditional grill appearance, a plastic panel stands as the diffuser. It is augmented by a daytime running light (DRL) instead of the typical black finish. The LED beam lights are outstanding with a creatively designed DRL. There is a classy MG logo on the bonnet, perfectly aligning with the typical MG design language.

Coming to the side profile, there are sleek body lines on the vehicle to give it a slim, sporty look similar to European vehicles. Most of the parts are blacked out and hidden with the highlights. The MG4's overall silhouette closely resembles that of a CHR. Being a budget electric vehicle, it lacks features like pop-up gadgets, door handles, and bars. It adds simplicity with a pressing lock mechanism which is similar to those found on vintage British cars. The wheels are of standard size with aluminum cast alloy wheels. But they are cleverly hidden by aerodynamic plastic cups to maintain the vehicle's streamlined appearance.

From the rearview, the vehicle has an elegantly designed brake light that adds to its aesthetic appearance. The brake light design is not just for show but also functional, providing an essential safety feature. The particular brake light can be found only on the older MG4 Trophy model as well as the standard model of the X Power.

The boot area, or luggage space has a capacity of approximately 363 liters. A disconnectable parcel shelf adds flexibility to the storage options. The space is practical for carrying day-to-day groceries or luggage for trips. The under-cabin space is spacious enough to accommodate an on-the-road emergency kit and a compressor kit. While the boot area lacks sufficient tethering points, it does have two latch points on the back of the rear seat. Additionally, a light is provided to facilitate loading and unloading in the dark, although there is no 12V power outlet available in the boot.

Despite its budget nature, the vehicle's exterior and overall aspects do not immediately reveal its cost-effective design. Inside, there are some plastic components as it is a budget vehicle. The wide panel that contains AC controls is made of glossy plastic. However, most surfaces have a leather finish, enhancing the interior's appearance at its price point. The steering wheel is balanced, avoiding a sporty or boxy shape. It is simple and minimalistic without being button-less. There are controls on either side of the steering wheel that provide tactile feedback with a vibration. It is more intuitive than a touch screen that does not give any feedback. The display setup of the MG4 is not huge or wide. It is split into two parts: a straightforward instrument cluster showing the odometer and range, and a separate, tablet-like infotainment system. It is basic and not seamlessly integrated with AC controls on that. Vehicle navigation systems often perform poorly in imported markets like Sri Lanka. But in MG4, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay options are available for improved functionality. The simple infotainment system allows one to handle basic information, entertainment, and other settings. Although there is a mood lighting option there is not much mood lighting in the vehicle.

Coming to the gear control, it provides a tactic experience. There are modern components like an electric brake and an elegant cup holder. A phone pad is present with convenient cable holes for charging from the bottom port. Storage is ample with compartments between the front seats and under the center armrest. The passenger cabin is not overly spacious due to its large handle. There is a practical driver, but also for the passenger, there are face mirrors without lighting. A velvet-lined sunglass holder is present on the top. There are buttons for controlling the lights. Front seat comfort is ensured with decent legroom and headroom. The driver's seat includes power controls, while the passenger's is manually adjustable. The manually adjustable steering wheel and the 360 camera option add to the simplicity and elegance of the vehicle's design.

The rear interior of the vehicle has door panels that match the front, made from a pleasant textured plastic that avoids a shiny finish. The lower portion of the panels is covered in leather. The seats are stylish and colorful, reflecting the brand's effort to stand out in the market despite not being widely known. The leather-finished stylish seats add a touch of luxury. There are pouches on the back of the front seats and dual pockets for each rear passenger. A single USB charging point is present in the middle, though rear passengers do not have access to climate control options. Overall the legroom and the headroom are spacious. However the vehicle's narrow design limits shoulder space for three passengers. Additionally, there are latch points for securing a baby seat, offering a simple and efficient system. The interior is vibrant and colorful, though it lacks grab handle bars and a central overhead light.

As of June 2024, the average Sri Lankan market price for the MG4 X Power lies around 21 million LKR depending on its condition. You can find the latest price with more details and cars of this model for sale from the following link MG MG4 Latest Price