The electric vehicle market has transformed dramatically over the past few years, with options now available at nearly every price point. Among these newer entrants stands the MG4 EV, a compact electric hatchback that’s been turning heads for all the right reasons.
But with so many electric options now flooding the market, the real question remains: is the MG4 worth the investment? Today, I’m diving deep into this question after speaking with current owners and taking an extended test drive myself.
MG4 EV: The Background Story
The iconic MG brand has experienced quite the evolution since its British sports car heyday. Now under Chinese ownership through SAIC Motor, the company has pivoted toward offering affordable electric vehicles that challenge the notion that going electric must be expensive.
The MG4 EV represents the brand’s most serious attempt yet to crack the mainstream electric market. Based on SAIC’s dedicated Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), it’s designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle rather than an adaptation of a combustion model.
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First Impressions Matter
When I first approached the MG4 in the dealership lot, I was genuinely surprised by its contemporary styling. The angular headlights, distinctive rear light bar, and sporty stance give it a modern appearance that belies its budget-friendly price tag.
The vehicle sits low and wide with a rear-wheel drive platform that promises better handling than many front-wheel drive competitors. This isn’t your grandparents’ MG, and it certainly doesn’t look like a compromise on wheels.
Design Elements That Stand Out
The floating roof design creates a visual illusion of a lighter, more nimble vehicle. Meanwhile, the aerodynamic elements aren’t just for show—they contribute to the car’s overall efficiency and range.
Inside, the minimalist dashboard centers around a 10.25-inch infotainment screen that handles most of the car’s functions. Physical buttons are limited but thoughtfully placed for essential controls like climate adjustments.
Performance That Surprises
The MG4 EV comes in several configurations, but even the entry-level model offers performance that will raise eyebrows. The rear-wheel drive setup provides a driving experience that feels more engaging than many competitors at this price point.
During my test drive, the immediate torque delivery created that characteristic electric “push back in your seat” sensation that makes EVs so enjoyable in urban environments. The low center of gravity, thanks to the floor-mounted battery pack translates to minimal body roll when cornering.
Power and Acceleration
| Model | Power Output | 0-60 mph | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 168 bhp | 7.7 seconds | 99 mph |
| Long Range | 201 bhp | 7.5 seconds | 99 mph |
| Extended Range | 245 bhp | 6.5 seconds | 99 mph |
| XPower | 429 bhp | 3.8 seconds | 124 mph |
The higher-spec versions, particularly the XPower variant, deliver performance figures that would have been considered sports car territory not long ago. All this from a practical family hatchback with a reasonable price tag.
Range and Charging: The Real-World Experience
When it comes to electric vehicles, manufacturer range claims and real-world results often differ significantly. The MG4 offers several battery options, with official ranges varying from 218 miles to 323 miles depending on the model.
After speaking with several owners and monitoring my own test drive efficiency, the real-world range appears to be about 85-90% of the official figures in mixed driving conditions. This remains impressive for the price point and compares favorably with more expensive alternatives.
Battery Options and Range Details
| Battery Size | WLTP Range | Real-World Range (Est.) | Charging (10-80%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 51 kWh | 218 miles | 185-195 miles | 35 minutes |
| 64 kWh | 281 miles | 240-250 miles | 35 minutes |
| 77 kWh | 323 miles | 275-290 miles | 39 minutes |
Charging capabilities are increasingly important for EV buyers, and the MG4 performs admirably here too. The vehicle supports DC fast charging at up to 135 kW, allowing for a 10-80% charge in approximately 35 minutes on an appropriate charger.
For home charging, the 7kW capability means overnight charging is straightforward—plug in during the evening and wake up to a full battery. Several owners I spoke with highlighted this convenience as a key selling point.
Interior Quality and Technology
Interior quality represents one area where some compromises become apparent in the MG4. While the design is modern and clean, the materials feel durable rather than premium in most areas.
The seats offer good support for shorter journeys but might become less comfortable on extended road trips. Rear passenger space is impressive for a vehicle in this class, with adequate headroom and legroom for adults.
Tech Features and Connectivity
The 10.25-inch central display handles most vehicle functions and includes:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wireless in newer models)
- Satellite navigation with real-time traffic updates
- Vehicle status monitoring and settings
- Climate control adjustments
Some owners mentioned the occasional software glitch requiring a system restart, but most praised the system’s overall responsiveness. OTA (Over The Air) updates have already improved functionality since the vehicle’s launch.
Practical Considerations for Daily Use
For families considering the MG4, practicality matters as much as performance. The 363-liter boot capacity is competitive for the segment, though not class-leading. The flat floor creates a versatile loading space.
The rear seats fold in a 60:40 configuration, expanding the available cargo area significantly when needed. I was able to fit a mountain bike with the front wheel removed without much difficulty during my extended test.
Running Costs and Maintenance
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Insurance Group | 27-36 (varies by trim) |
| Annual Electricity Cost* | £400-600 |
| Service Interval | 24 months/18,000 miles |
| Warranty | 7 years/80,000 miles |
*Based on 10,000 miles annually at average UK electricity rates
The seven-year warranty provides significant peace of mind and exceeds what most competitors offer. This coverage extends to the battery, addressing a common concern among EV skeptics about potential replacement costs.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The MG4 EV starts at just under £27,000 for the entry-level model and extends to around £37,000 for the high-performance XPower variant. This represents exceptional value when compared with similarly sized electric vehicles from mainstream European manufacturers.
Even more compelling is the standard equipment level across the range. Features that often cost thousands as options on premium brands come included on even basic MG4 models.
Trim Levels and Key Features
| Trim Level | Starting Price | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| SE | £26,995 | 10.25″ display, 17″ alloys, rear parking sensors |
| Trophy | £31,495 | Heated seats, 360° cameras, wireless phone charging |
| Extended Range | £34,495 | Larger battery, increased range, vehicle-to-load capability |
| XPower | £36,995 | Dual motor AWD, performance upgrades, sport styling |
The sweet spot in the range appears to be the Trophy trim with the 64 kWh battery, offering a good balance of range, equipment, and value. However, those regularly traveling longer distances might find the additional investment in the Extended Range model worthwhile.
Owner Experiences: The Unfiltered Truth
To get beyond marketing claims and brief test drives, I spoke with twelve current MG4 owners who’ve lived with the vehicle for at least six months. Their feedback revealed consistent themes worth considering.
Nearly all praised the vehicle’s reliability, with only minor issues reported and promptly addressed under warranty. Most had experienced at least one software update improving functionality or adding features.
Common Owner Praises
- Value for money compared to other EVs
- Better-than-expected real-world range
- Engaging driving dynamics, especially in sport mode
- Straightforward charging experience
Recurring Criticisms
- Occasional infotainment system sluggishness
- Interior materials showing wear in high-touch areas
- Wind noise at highway speeds
- Limited dealer network in some regions
One owner, James from Manchester, summarized his experience: “After fifteen months and 18,000 miles, I’m still delighted with my decision. The money saved versus other EVs I considered paid for my home charger installation and still left thousands in my pocket.”
Environmental Credentials
For many buyers, environmental impact represents a key consideration when choosing an electric vehicle. The MG4’s production carbon footprint is comparable to other mainstream EVs, though the company has been less transparent about manufacturing processes than some competitors.
The vehicle’s efficiency, averaging around 3.8 miles per kWh in real-world driving, ensures that operational emissions remain low over the vehicle’s lifetime. Several owners reported improvements in efficiency after the initial break-in period.
Sustainability Features
- Vehicle-to-load capability (on some models), enabling power sharing
- Battery designed for eventual recycling
- Lower lifetime carbon footprint compared to equivalent combustion vehicles
- Energy recuperation system with adjustable regenerative braking
Competition Comparison
The electric hatchback segment continues to grow more competitive each year. How does the MG4 stack up against key rivals?
| Model | Starting Price | Range (WLTP) | Key Advantage vs MG4 | Key Disadvantage vs MG4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen ID.3 | £37,115 | 265 miles | Interior quality | Higher price |
| Cupra Born | £36,475 | 249 miles | Driving dynamics | More expensive |
| Renault Megane E-Tech | £36,995 | 280 miles | Premium feel | Smaller boot space |
| Nissan Leaf | £28,495 | 168 miles | Established track record | Less range |
The MG4’s price advantage remains significant across the board. Even with government incentives applied to competitors, the value gap remains substantial enough to forgive some of the MG’s minor shortcomings.
Is the MG4 EV Worth It?
After extensive research, conversations with owners, and personal experience with the vehicle, I can confidently say that the MG4 EV represents exceptional value in today’s electric vehicle market. It delivers the core benefits of electric motoring without the premium price tag that has kept many potential buyers on the sidelines.
Is it perfect? Certainly not. The interior materials won’t impress luxury car owners, and the dealer network remains less extensive than established mainstream brands. Software quirks occasionally surface, though updates continue to address these issues.
Who Should Buy the MG4 EV?
The MG4 makes perfect sense for:
- First-time EV buyers seeking an affordable entry point
- Commuters with access to home charging
- Families needing a practical second car
- Environmentally conscious buyers on a budget
- Anyone prioritizing value over premium branding
Who Should Look Elsewhere?
The MG4 might not satisfy:
- Those seeking luxury interior appointments
- Buyers requiring the highest charging speeds available
- Drivers regularly make very long journeys
- People without home charging capabilities
- Those requiring maximum cargo capacity
A Game-Changer in Accessible Electric Mobility
The MG4 EV represents something important in the evolution of electric vehicles—the democratization of technology that was, until recently, priced beyond the reach of average consumers. It delivers on the core promise of affordable electric mobility without feeling like a compromise.
What impressed me most wasn’t any single feature but rather the cohesive package. The MG4 feels like a vehicle designed with clear priorities and executed with surprising attention to detail given its price point.
For many potential buyers still hesitating on the electric vehicle fence, the MG4 might just provide the perfect combination of price, practicality, and performance to make the leap worthwhile. In a market where “affordable EV” has often meant significant compromises, the MG4 changes the equation substantially.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to charge an MG4 EV at home?
A full charge from empty using a 7kW home charger takes approximately 7-8 hours for the standard battery and 9-10 hours for the long-range version.
Is the MG4 reliable?
Early reliability data appears positive, with few significant issues reported. The 7-year warranty provides additional peace of mind.
Can the MG4 EV be used for long journeys?
Yes, with proper planning. The long-range model’s 280+ mile real-world range and 135kW fast charging capabilities make longer journeys practical.
Does the MG4 qualify for government incentives?
This varies by country. In the UK, it no longer qualifies for the plug-in car grant (now discontinued), but may be eligible for certain local incentives.
How does the MG4 compare to Tesla models?
The MG4 offers significantly lower entry pricing than any Tesla model while providing a competitive range. Tesla offers advantages in charging infrastructure and performance in comparable models.