The MG4 Electric, also known as the MG4 EV, is a battery electric hatchback from MG Motor that has quickly become one of the most talked-about affordable EVs on the market. Designed with both urban and highway driving in mind, it offers a practical blend of efficiency, performance, and value. Built on MG’s new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), the MG4 is positioned as a serious competitor in the compact electric vehicle segment. This article explores everything you need to know about the MG4, from design and performance to technology and real-world usability.
Design and Exterior Styling
One of the most striking aspects of the MG4 is its bold, European-inspired design. It doesn’t look like a typical budget electric car. The sharp headlights, angular front end, and sculpted bonnet give the MG4 a sporty character. At the rear, the standout design mg4d continues with a full-width LED light bar and a split-level roof spoiler that not only looks futuristic but also helps with aerodynamics.
The MG4 sits low and wide, giving it a planted stance on the road. The 50:50 weight distribution, made possible by the MSP platform, contributes to its athletic appearance and handling balance. It’s clear that MG has put serious thought into making the MG4 look and feel modern without resorting to design gimmicks.
Performance and Powertrain
The MG4 comes with multiple powertrain options, depending on the market. The two main battery sizes are 51 kWh and 64 kWh. The 51 kWh model produces 170 horsepower, while the 64 kWh version ups the power to 203 horsepower. Both versions are rear-wheel drive, which is somewhat unique in this price range and contributes to a more engaging driving experience.
In terms of acceleration, the MG4 64 kWh can go from 0 to 100 km/h in just over 7 seconds, which is quite respectable for a compact electric vehicle. Driving dynamics are solid, with responsive steering and minimal body roll. The car feels stable even at higher speeds, and the suspension strikes a good balance between comfort and control.
For those looking for even more performance, MG has hinted at launching a dual-motor all-wheel drive variant with significantly more power. This would further expand the MG4’s appeal to driving enthusiasts.
Battery Range and Charging
Battery range is always a key concern for EV buyers, and the MG4 delivers competitive figures. The 51 kWh battery offers a WLTP range of about 350 km, while the 64 kWh version stretches this to around 450 km. In real-world driving, these figures may vary based on climate, driving style, and road conditions, but users have generally reported solid, reliable range.
When it comes to charging, the MG4 is capable of fast charging at up to 135 kW for the 64 kWh battery. This means it can charge from 10 to 80 percent in roughly 35 to 39 minutes using a public DC fast charger. For home charging via a standard wall box, a full charge takes about 7 to 8 hours depending on the battery size and power supply.
Overall, charging convenience is on par with much more expensive EVs, which is impressive considering the MG4’s price point.
Interior and Comfort
Step inside the MG4, and you’ll find a clean and functional cabin layout. MG has adopted a minimalist approach, focusing on essential controls and removing clutter. The materials used inside aren’t luxury-grade, but they are durable and well-assembled, with soft-touch plastics in key areas and a modern, high-tech look.
The front seats are supportive and comfortable, with good visibility all around. There’s ample legroom and headroom in both the front and rear, making it a genuinely usable family car. The boot offers 363 liters of space, which can be expanded to over 1,100 liters with the rear seats folded flat.
On the tech side, the MG4 features a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a 7-inch digital driver display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and the user interface is generally intuitive, though some users find the screen response slightly laggy compared to rivals.
Technology and Connectivity
MG has equipped the MG4 with its latest iSMART connectivity suite, which includes remote app control, over-the-air updates, and voice commands. You can remotely pre-condition the cabin, check battery status, and even locate the vehicle through the app.
The infotainment system also offers navigation, live traffic updates, and EV-specific features like range prediction and charger location integration. A wireless phone charger and multiple USB ports make it easy to keep devices charged on the go.
While the tech stack is solid, it’s not as polished as what you might find in a Tesla or premium EV brand. However, considering the price point, the MG4 punches above its weight.
Safety and Driver Assistance
The MG4 has received strong safety ratings in Europe, including a five-star Euro NCAP rating. It comes standard with MG Pilot, a suite of advanced driver assistance systems. Features include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, Blind Spot Detection, and a 360-degree camera.
These features are typically found in higher-end vehicles, so their inclusion in the MG4 is a big win for safety-conscious buyers. The car also includes multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and intelligent braking systems to support safe driving in all conditions.
In markets with extreme climates, like the UAE or parts of Asia, the MG4 also includes special battery safety features such as Zero Thermal Runaway Protection to ensure safe operation under high heat.
Ownership Costs and Value for Money
One of the MG4’s biggest selling points is its affordability. It undercuts many rivals like the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric, and even the base Tesla Model 3 by a significant margin. Prices vary by market, but it generally starts at a highly competitive rate, often making it the cheapest new electric car with over 300 km of range.
Maintenance costs for electric vehicles are lower than for traditional petrol cars, and MG provides a generous 7-year or 150,000 km warranty in most regions. This includes the battery and powertrain, which adds confidence for first-time EV buyers.
Charging costs are also low. In markets like Pakistan, for example, a full home charge of the MG4 costs the equivalent of just a few dollars, making it incredibly cheap to run on a daily basis.
Real-World Impressions and Reviews
Owners and reviewers alike have praised the MG4 for being fun to drive, spacious, and practical. It’s viewed as a disruptor in the EV market because it delivers on the core needs of electric car buyers without a premium price tag. While some criticisms have been aimed at the infotainment system responsiveness or the lack of premium interior finishes, these are minor considering the overall value offered.
Whether used for commuting, errands, or even longer trips, the MG4 proves that an affordable EV doesn’t have to compromise on style, safety, or features.
Conclusion
The MG4 Electric is a bold step forward for MG and an exciting development for the electric vehicle market. It combines appealing design, good performance, a solid range, and practical features in a package that is accessible to a wide range of buyers. While it might not be the most luxurious EV available, it’s certainly one of the most balanced and affordable.
For anyone looking to make the switch to electric without breaking the bank, the MG4 is a top contender that’s hard to ignore.