The 2024 Geneva Motor Show has few new features. The most important is, without a doubt, the world debut of the new Renault 5; and another of interest is the new MG3 Hydrid Plus, which will soon hit the market to compete with such established models as the Renault Clio or the Toyota Yaris. And it will also do so with a competitive price: it is estimated that it will be below 20,000 euros, which will position it as a cheaper alternative to the aforementioned rivals.
We are faced with a B segment car that grows in size compared to its predecessor. It now measures 411 centimeters in length (257 correspond to the wheelbase), 179 in width and 150 in height. This renewed model, which was already marketed in the United Kingdom, will arrive in other European countries with three versions (Standard, Comfort and Luxury), all powered by the new Hybrid Plus propulsion system.
According to the brand itself, the car is distinguished from its competitors by its high power and performance, as well as a greater range of autonomy in electric mode (it has a 1.83 kWh battery). And all this with a guarantee of 7 years or 150,000 kilometers (whichever comes first).
MG's Hybrid Plus propulsion technology debuts in this car. The 1.5 four-cylinder 102 HP gasoline block is combined with an 80 kW (109 HP) electric one; In total, they offer a power of 190 HP that is transmitted through a three-speed automatic gearbox. An independent generator motor allows a wide variety of operating modes, which automatically selects the vehicle according to the needs of the moment.
As far as performance is concerned, the brand ensures that the MG3 Hydrid Plus can reach 170 km/h - 95 km/h in 100% electric mode - and accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8 seconds. When recovering on the highway, it takes 5 seconds to go from 80 to 120 km/h. According to our data, it is almost two seconds faster than its rivals.
Drivers can tailor the MG3's responsiveness by choosing between three driving modes: Eco, Standard and Sport. Eco mode is calibrated to optimize fuel consumption and provides smooth throttle response, while Standard mode offers a mix of efficiency and performance, and works perfectly on most journeys. Sport mode has a more sensitive calibration and makes the most of the combined power, offering some of the best performance figures in the B-segment hybrid utility category.
Inside, the dashboard mounts two screens: a 7-inch one for the digital instrument panel and another 10.25-inch one for the infotainment system. The company explains that compared to the current MG models, the graphics and capacity have been improved. response of the two displays. Satellite navigation is included as standard, as is smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. MG iSMART offers MG3 customers levels of connectivity and features that would normally be associated with premium models.
Other notable equipment is air conditioning, six-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connection, four USB ports and rear parking sensors and camera.
Upper trim levels add leather upholstery, keyless entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a 360-degree camera with rear parking sensors.
The MG3 also benefits from the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). MG Pilot technology, which includes lane keep assist with lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning and traffic jam assist, increases safety.
