New MG3 Hybrid a fine car worthy of the iconic badge
The first time I drove an MG3, it was a bit underwhelming, despite the rock bottom price.
Now Chinese owned, the name MG has a proud heritage as a sporty and desirable vehicle. The firm now produces value for money cars, which are practical and well equipped and with some industry leading offers.
But this new hybrid model is an altogether different proposition from the original and, says the company, represents a landmark in MG's powertrain development, as the first pure hybrid model to be launched. There are two models, and both are packed with kit you would expect on more expensive rivals.
It delivers an advanced hybrid system that includes a separate generator, allowing for multiple hybrid modes. Starting at £18,495 OTR, it is available in SE or Trophy specifications and both come with the seven-year/80,000 mile warranty.
It also looks good, with a full frame grille, sporting the larger, iconic MG badge and other neat style touches in the rear such as high-mounted tail lamps. To be fair, it blew me away, a supermini almost defying the description, with a large interior and excellent boot space.It delivers a unique hybrid system that includes separate generator, allowing for multiple hybrid modes which include:
EV – Running on electric-only power for as long as charge allows
Series – Engine runs through to the generator, which powers the electric motor for drive
Series and Charge – Series driving, plus topping-up the battery when under low-load
Drive and Charge – Engine drives the wheels, while also charging the battery through the generator
Parallel – Both engine and electric motor power the wheels
The hybrid 1.5 internal combustion engine and 100kW electric motor deliver an excellent drive and can pretty astonishing economy figures of nearly 70mpg reported by colleagues. I managed ‘only’ 63mpg, nearer the official figure and this was with predominantly motorway driving. Impressive or what? It is bigger than before with good interior space and an excellent stowage area.
It now features a twin-screen cockpit with a seven-inch digital instrument screen and a 10.25-inch central infotainment system which also controls navigation and connectivity via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. Other high end equipment includes air conditioning, six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connection, four USB ports, and rear parking sensors and camera, while this range topper add leather-style upholstery, keyless entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, and 360-degree camera.
The spacious cabin offers excellent headroom, while legroom is reasonably good as well. You will not find high quality soft touch finish, but the plastic finish is hard wearing and easy to keep clean, particularly with children or pets in the car. Boot space, like most hatchbacks, space can be increased by folding the rear seats.
Despite the huge economy, it still delivers a sporty performance with good handling which came into play on twisty Devon roads. There are three driving modes: Eco, Standard and Sport, with the latter powering the car to 60mph in just eight seconds. The chassis and suspension has also been specifically tuned for UK roads according to MG. It feels sharp on bends and corners and well planted.
However, hit a pothole or uneven surface where the car ins unsettled by imperfections and can be uncomfortable until you are on a better surface,. A bigger, better, high quality little car, but still a real snip of a price.It is packed with safety kit including rear view camera and MG Pilot technology, which includes lane keep assist and departure warning, adaptive cruise control, collission warnings and traffic congestion alert.
Factfile
MG3 3 Hybrid+ Trophy
Price: £20,495
Mechanical: 143PS, 1,498cc, 4cyl petrol engine and 100kW electric motor combined, driving front wheels via auto gearbox
Max speed: 128mph
0-60mph: 8 seconds
Combined mpg: 64
Insurance group: 24
CO2 emissions: 100g/km (provisional)
Warranty: 7yrs/80,000 miles
