MG Motor South Africa has introduced the fourth model to its local range, the all-new MG3 hatchback, marking a significant expansion of its product offering since the brand’s reintroduction under the custodianship of SAIC Motors International in January.
This launch comes at a time of notable growth for the brand, which has recorded close to 2 000 vehicle sales in its first six months of operation, supported by a rapidly expanding dealer network that now stands at 44 outlets, with a further six expected to open before the end of the year.
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MG3 Hybrid
The new MG3 arrives as a third-generation model and is offered in two primary variants: a petrol version, available with either a manual or CVT automatic transmission, and a self-charging hybrid option named the Hybrid+. Buyers can choose between two specification grades – Comfort and Luxury – with the Hybrid+ model exclusively offered in the high-end Luxury trim.
According to Sky Zhang, General Manager of MG Motor South Africa, the new model embodies the brand’s commitment to offering comprehensive value. “In line with its catchy ‘MG3 has it all’ slogan, the newcomer possesses all the attributes to go to the very top of the class. It offers customers a combination of efficiency and performance with MG’s exciting Hybrid+ powertrain crowning an already accomplished package.,”
He added: “Exhibiting a level of refinement uncommon in the segment while still staying true to the brand’s fun-to-drive philosophy, the MG3 is generously equipped, both with premium interior features and superior safety elements. I’m confident that the new MG3 will be a game-changer in the South African market.”
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MG3 CVT
The vehicle benefits from a comprehensive redesign, including a new platform, contemporary exterior and interior styling, and improved performance metrics. A key highlight is the introduction of the Hybrid+ system, a conventional hybrid powertrain making its debut in an MG model. The system combines a 1,5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine with an electric motor to produce a combined 155 kW and 425 Nm of torque, achieving a fuel consumption figure of 4,3 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 100 g/km.
For those preferring a traditional internal combustion engine, the petrol variant is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 81 kW and 142 Nm. Both powertrains are backed by MG’s seven-year or 200 000 km warranty and a three-year or 45 000 km service plan is included in the purchase price.
Visually, the new MG3 presents a design language that aligns it with the rest of the MG family, particularly models like the Cyberster and HS. It features a distinctive front profile with Projector LED headlamps on Luxury models, LED daytime running lights, and a sporty rear design that hints at its practical interior space. The car rides on 16-inch alloy wheels, with a colour palette that includes seven options such as St. Moritz Blue, Flare Red, and Pearl Black.
Inside, the cabin is designed with a focus on comfort and technology. Standard features across the range include a dual-screen setup comprising a 7-inch driver display and a 10,25-inch colour touchscreen, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a rear-view camera. Practical features like an alarm system, automatic climate control, and cruise control are also fitted as standard.
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The Luxury grade adds further enhancements, including simulated leather upholstery, a six-speaker sound system, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera. From a safety perspective, this grade benefits from the MG Pilot system, which adds Forward Collision Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Autonomous Emergency Braking, and Traffic Jam Assist, among other features. It also includes a central crash bag, bringing the total number to seven.
Boot space is rated at 293 litres, expanding to 983 litres with the rear seats folded, providing practical utility for a vehicle in this segment.
Despite wet and windy conditions the Cape roads provided an excellent opportunity to put both the CVT and Hybrid through their paces, the first notable being the lack of buffeting in the wind and the solid feel of both models on the road.
I have never been a fan of the CVT gearbox but the one fitted to the MG3 works swiftly and efficiently in low speed conditions, the engine revving quite loudly under full throttle conditions. However, bearing in mind this is designed very much as a city and urban runner, the combination more than holds its own against similar models and provides a comfortable ride.
With the initial instant power from the battery in the Hybrid, the get-up-and-go is significantly enhanced with a smooth shift from battery to engine power and back. Handling is also good with very little understeer to tyre protest even when the car was pressed hard into some corners on the Cape’s mountain passes.
The introduction of the MG3 is poised to strengthen MG’s position in the competitive South African compact car market, offering a blend of hybrid technology, comprehensive standard specification, and a compelling ownership proposition.
Pricing:
MG3 1.5 MT Comfort R269 900
MG3 1.5 CVT Comfort R309 900
MG3 1.5 CVT Luxury* R344 900
MG3 1.5 HEV R469 900
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