The all-new third-generation MG3 has finally made its world debut at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show, following a protracted stream of teasers, leaked images of camouflaged test mules, and speculative renderings.
The all-new fully redesigned MG3 is a huge leap forward in terms of style and a radical divergence from the styling of the preceding model that was on sale for more than a decade. With its aggressive-looking headlamps and pointed nose, the front end of the 2024 MG3 almost mimics the appearance of an MG5/MG GT. The large bumper intake, which is encircled by aerodynamic wings, makes up for the absence of a grille.
The profile is more sculpted than before thanks to the sharply curved double-waist character lines. There are horizontally mounted taillights and a sleek rear bumper at the back.
Inside, the all-new MG3 has a similar layout as that of the MG4 EV with a near-identical flat-bottomed multi-function steering wheel, a separate 7-inch screen for the digital instrument cluster, and a floating 10.25-inch central multimedia screen. MG says the graphics and responsiveness of its iSmart infotainment system have been improved.
MG 3 gains a row of physical piano-like switches under the main screen, while there is a rotary gear selector on the center console. Unique touches like the check dash pattern, quilted seat upholstery, and bright orange contrasting stitching set the car apart from its siblings.
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The most significant thing is the use of MG’s first full-hybrid powertrain, called Hybrid Plus. The system utilizes a 1.5L four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor to drive the front wheels. The combined power output is 192 hp, with up to 250Nm of torque available from the electric motor alone. A separate generator motor is used to feed energy to the MG3’s 1.83kWh battery, or directly to the main e-motor if need be.
Meanwhile, the petrol engine is mated to a three-speed automatic transmission that MG touts as being more responsive than the CVT gearboxes often used by hybrid cars. The main benefit of the Hybrid Plus powertrain is efficiency, with the new MG3 officially capable of returning up to 64mpg (27 km/l), with CO2 emissions of 100g/km. This is aided by the car’s ability to drive on pure-electric power for short periods, and up to 50mph (80.4 km/h) in EV mode.
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But with the electric motor alone producing 134 hp – more than the petrol engine, in fact – MG says it handles much of the heavy lifting, including accelerating, before the engine has to lend a hand or take over. As a result, the new MG3 boasts impressive performance stats for a hybrid hatchback with 0-100 km/h sprint time of under 7.9 seconds, compared to 10.4 seconds in the outgoing model.
There are 3 drive modes available — Eco, Standard, and Sport — while the car automatically selects one of its five possible powertrain modes depending on whether it wants the engine focused on providing drive, energy for the e-motor, charge for the battery, or to remain dormant. According to Zhao Aimin, Deputy General Manager of SAIC Motor International, the Hybrid Plus is two generations ahead of Japanese systems.
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Pricing for the all-new 2024 MG3 hatchback for UK & Europe is expected to be announced in March 2024. The vehicle will go on sale in European markets before the middle of this year with Asia Pacific & Oceanic debut to be followed soon after.
A computer animation professional with over 23 years of industry experience having served in leading organizations, TV channels & production facilities in Pakistan. An avid car enthusiast and petrolhead with an affection to deliver quality content to help shape opinions. Formerly written for PakWheels as well as major publications including Dawn. Founder of CarSpiritPK.com
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