2024 MG3: First UK reviews
While local specification is yet to be confirmed, the 2024 MG3 brings significantly more driver assistance technology, much of which was almost unthinkable a decade ago.
In Europe, it has been launched with hybrid powertrains alongside entry-level petrol models, with MG Australia yet to reveal if both will arrive down under.
With larger dimensions – albeit a smaller boot – a quantum-leap in cabin design, fit and finish includes a colour touchscreen, digital instruments and higher levels of safety equipment.
In the UK, MG is targeting 10,000 sales per annum – a match for the Toyota Yaris’s volume and more than double the previous MG3’s 4000 yearly average.
Part of that goal, says the British media, is fuelled by Ford’s decision to drop the Fiesta, ending production last July after 47 years – a car that had topped UK sales charts for 12 consecutive years until 2020.
Released in hybrid guise, with the petrol models to follow, Autocar, Auto Express and What Car? were among the first media in the world to drive the second-generation MG3.
Price and equipment levels were universally praised, with 16-inch alloy wheels, electric windows, adaptive cruise control and rear-parking camera and sensors as standard.
Inside, there’s also a 10.25-inch colour touchscreen with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, DAB radio, Bluetooth and sat-nav standard across the line-up, with the up-spec ‘Trophy’ costing £2000 ($A3838) more adding leather seat trim among its extra equipment.
The fit, finish and touchscreen were praised – with points deducted for the air-conditioning functions not being accessed by physical buttons – as was the ‘clever’ surround view camera on up-spec models.
The 10.25-inch infotainment was praised by Auto Express, with What Car? saying it had reasonable response with only sporadic touchscreen delays.
A simple ‘fine’ was the response fromAuto Express, saying the much-improved interior was effectively in-line with rivals in the cost-conscious supermini segment.
What Car? had difficulty in sorting a comfortable driving position with the six-way adjustable driver’s seat, but said it was one of only a few foibles with the second-generation MG3.
While it says a six-foot driver
