MG has expanded its European line-up with the launch of the second-generation MG3 - a B-segment supermini designed to take on rivals such as the Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris.
Although the first MG3 was only sold in selected markets, this new generation keeps the compact footprint and strong emphasis on day-to-day versatility. This time, however, it pairs a bolder design with hybrid power, aiming to make a mark in one of the market’s most fiercely contested segments.
Slightly longer and wider than the previous MG3 (which relied solely on combustion engines), the newcomer is expected to reach Portugal in the spring.
Only one engine option available
The new MG3 is powered by the brand’s latest Hybrid+ system (a full hybrid that does not need plugging in). MG is a British marque within the SAIC Motor group, the Chinese automotive giant. In practice, the set-up combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine producing 102 hp with an electric motor rated at 100 kW (136 hp), for a total combined output of 195 hp.
That makes it noticeably more powerful than the hybrid versions of the Clio (145 hp) or the Yaris (up to 136 hp). The full hybrid battery is also larger than average at 1.36 kWh, and it is mounted beneath the rear seats.
Drive is sent to the front wheels through an automatic gearbox with just three ratios - one of the model’s key distinguishing features. By comparison, Renault uses a multi-mode gearbox (a unique solution), while Toyota continues to rely on continuously variable transmissions.
MG quotes 0–100 km/h in 8.0 seconds for the MG3 - the quickest acceleration among hybrids in this class - and says it can accelerate from 80 km/h to 120 km/h in 5.0 seconds. Top speed is listed at 170 km/h.
On top of that, MG promises combined fuel consumption of just 4.4 l/100 km and CO₂ emissions of 100 g/km.
Several operating modes to choose from
The MG3’s hybrid technology supports multiple operating modes, starting with the electric-only "EV" mode, provided there is enough charge in the battery.
In "Series" mode (operating as a series hybrid), the petrol engine works as a generator, while the electric motor alone provides drive. "Series and Charge" works in the same way, but with the additional feature that the electric motor-generator is also used to recharge the battery when the state of charge is low.
With the "Drive and Charge" function, the combustion engine is used for propulsion while the system can recharge the battery via the electric motor-generator.
Finally, "Parallel" mode (a parallel hybrid) allows both engines - petrol and electric - to work together to drive the wheels, unlocking the full 195 hp.
What about space?
The new MG3 measures 4.11 m in length, 1.80 m in width and 1.50 m in height, figures that make it one of the largest models in the B-segment. It is bigger than the Clio in every dimension, and the differences are even more pronounced when set against the Yaris.
As a result, the MG3 is expected to stand out for interior room. As for the boot, it offers 293 litres of luggage capacity, which is in line with its competitors: the Clio claims 300 litres and the Yaris has 286 litres.
What equipment does it offer?
Offered in three trim levels - Standard, Comfort and Luxury - the new MG3 comes as standard with smartphone integration via Android Auto or Apple CarPlay, as well as rear parking sensors, a rear parking camera, lane keeping and lane departure assistance, cruise control with speed control, and a forward collision warning.
In higher-spec versions, the equipment list also adds a 360-degree parking camera, keyless entry, synthetic leather seats, and heated front seats and steering wheel.
For infotainment, the system centres on a 10.25-inch central screen paired with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.
When does it arrive?
The new MG3 is expected to arrive on the Portuguese market in the spring, although the brand has not yet confirmed this officially. Pricing has also yet to be announced.
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