Highly anticipated is an understatement regarding the MG4 EV. Teased last July at the assumption of SAIC Motor Philippines as the MG brand’s new distributor, the MG4 is MG Philippines’ entry into the mainstream affordable EV (electric vehicle) category.
Given that most EVs sold in the country are priced way above comparable ICE models or too small for a typical Filipino family of five, the MG4 impacts the 5-seater hatchback category with its long list of compelling features.
The MG4 comes in two variants: the Standard has a range of 350 kilometers, and the Lux is rated for 435 kilometers WLTP.
The MG4 Standard has a 170 PS electric motor and a 51 kWh Lithium, Ferro-Phosphate battery pack underneath the floor. The longer-range Lux version has a more powerful 204 PS electric motor, with the 435-km range version having a 64kWh Nickel, Manganese, and Cobalt battery pack. The electric motors can churn out 250 N-m of CRDi diesel engine-like torque.
As with most modern EVs, the MG4 supports bi-directional power charging with its Vehicle-to-Load capability. So, it can power small appliances whenever there’s no electricity or if you’re on an outdoor camping expedition.
In an unusual departure from the modern-day hatchback formula, the MG4 has a rear-motor, rear-wheel drivetrain. Along with its near 50:50 weight distribution and the ultra-thin battery’s low center of gravity, the MG4 should be more stable on long straights and handle well on fast bends.
Built on SAIC’s Modular Scalable Platform, the MG4 sits on McPherson front struts and a multi-link rear suspension layout. Disc brakes are standard in all four corners, which help anchor the MG4’s 2,103 to 2,113-kilogram weight.
One way to easily distinguish the Standard and Lux grades is through the wheels. The Standard sports 17-inch steelies, while the Lux has 18-inch alloys with fat 235/45 R18 Bridgestone rubber. Plastic wheel covers are included for both grades to improve the car’s aerodynamics. A Twin Aero rear spoiler also differentiates the Lux from the Standard variants.
LED lights front and back are standard fare, with rear fog lamps for all trims. The 435-km Lux does get auto fold and heated side mirrors for good measure. The Lux also has a 360-degree camera system, a reversing camera, auto-dimming mirrors, wireless charging, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
Common to all trims is a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment display. It also comes with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connection. They all have auto-climate control, too. The Lux grade does get two extra speakers more than the four of the Standard trim.
Both the Standard and Lux variants sport fabric seats. But the Lux has a 6-way power-adjustable controls for the driver.
Aside from the loaded specs, all MG4s get front and side airbags. Curtain airbags are reserved for the Lux variants. Autonomous Emergency Braking, Cornering Brake Control, ABS, Hill Hold Control, Pedestrian Warning System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, Lane Keep Assist, Blind Sport Indicator System, Intelligent Headlight Control, and ISOFIX mounting points are standard across the line. The Traction Control and Vehicle Dynamic Control features are available to the Lux and Standard.
As a dedicated Battery Electric Vehicle, the MG4 benefits from its cavernous interior space. With a long wheelbase of 2,705 mm, backseat passengers have crossover-like knee and shoulder room available at their disposal. The rears also fold to open up an expansive cargo area if needed.
MG Philippines is throwing in a 5-year/ 100,000-km vehicle warranty and an 8-year/160,000km battery pack warranty for an MG4 purchase.
The MG4 is a natural contender to the earlier released BYD Dolphin EV hatchback but with a more conventional design and familiar practical interiors for good measure. Going for it are the rave reviews it has been getting in Europe, where it started selling at the end of 2022. Car of the Year awards from Which EV, UKCOTY, and the Irish Times, as well as Bargain of the Year 2023 title from Top Gear and EV of the Year from the Automotive Management Awards, all contribute to the MG4’s stature as the EV to consider seriously.
And, of course, we can’t deny the price of the MG4. Starting at P1,468,888.00, the MG4’s price spread allows EV-intenders to consider buying one. As a proper-sized modern car with long-range options, the MG4 can be the EV that will finally breaks the proverbial glass ceiling for mass adoption.
