The all-new MG3 has arrived in the UK, set to shake up the fleet sector with its full hybrid technology and £18,495 entry pricing.
Debuting at the Great British Fleet Event next month, the new arrival succeeds the popular conventional petrol MG3, delivering hybrid technology at a price that undercuts many petrol superminis presently on sale in the UK.
The Hybrid+ powertrain teams up a 102hp 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine with a 136hp motor, a 1.83kWh battery and a three-speed automatic that bucks the trend for a CVT in hybrids.
The result is a total 194hp of power and a 0-62mph time of 8.0 seconds.
Initial figures indicate a CO2 figure of 100g/km and fuel economy of 64.2mpg, both subject to final approval.
It’s also able to go fully electric for city driving according to MG, thanks to its larger-than-average battery and high-performance electric motor.
Drivers can choose from three modes – Eco, Standard and Sport – while the MG3 Hybrid+ chassis and suspension has been specifically tuned for UK roads by the engineering team based at the former Longbridge plant.
Two trims are available – SE and Trophy – with high levels of safety, comfort and entertainment features as standard.
Both come with dual-screen technology, 16-inch alloy wheels, satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, reversing camera – and a seven-year/80,000-mile warranty.
The MG Pilot safety suite is also standard and includes autonomous emergency braking, front collision warning, lane departure warning, emergency lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.
The Trophy MG3 Hybrid+ is priced at £20,495 and gains a 360-degree camera, heated front seats and steering wheel, keyless entry, privacy glass, rain sensing wipers and LED projector headlights.
David Allison, head of product and planning for MG Motor UK, said: “There is still a very strong demand for the affordable, practical and fun-to-drive supermini and we believe the MG3 Hybrid+ will appeal to many customers. Like all MG models, it will challenge the established superminis with its competitive price, whilst also delivering outstanding value with no compromises when it comes to equipment.
“We’re confident that if you simply wish to drive this MG for something other than daily commuting, it will offer a fun and involving experience.”
