The new MG3 is a transformed new version of the firm’s small car that aims to slot into the gap left by the Ford Fiesta.
The new MG3 is, for the first time, offered solely as a hybrid. The super-clever new Hybrid+ tech gives an eyebrow-raising combination of performance and fuel economy.
The new MG3 also looks more grown up, with sleeker lines, while the interior has been transformed.
With the demise of the Ford Fiesta, the MG3 will be taking on hybrid versions of the new Vauxhall Corsa and Renault Clio. The Toyota Yaris and Honda Jazz are, like the MG3, only available as hybrids, while the Dacia Sandero has long been a value-priced competitor for the MG3.
New 2024 MG3 price and release date
The new MG3 is already open for ordering, with first deliveries expected within weeks.
New MG3 prices start from just £18,495, for the Hybrid+ SE model, which is more than £1000 less than the cheapest Vauxhall Corsa. Even the top-spec new MG3 Trophy only costs £20,495.
New 2024 MG3: exterior and interior
The new MG3 has a smoother, sleeker and more rounded appearance than today’s car, which is looking a little boxy these days. The new MG3 is longer and wider, but not by much – it still measures a city-friendly 4.1 metres long.
The new MG3’s front end has styling cues from the popular MG4 EV electric car. The wide grille is distinctive, as is the prominent central section of the bonnet which stretches to the tip of the nose. It proudly wears an extra-large octagonal MG logo.
The new MG3 has standard LED headlights and alloy wheels, and is offered in a choice of six colours – Arctic White, Battersea Blue, Dynamic Red, Black Pearl. Monument Silver and Hampstead Grey.
Inside, the new MG3 has been transformed. It has a much higher-quality interior, designed around a sophisticated dual-screen layout. The driver has a colour 7.0-inch display, and there’s a big 10.25-inch touchscreen in the middle.
All new MG3 come with standard sat nav, plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The company says the software and processing power of its iSMART infotainment system is faster, too.
The new MG3 will have more space for passengers, while the 293-litre boot is the largest in the hybrid small car class.
The new MG3 will be sold in two specifications, called SE and Trophy. SE has air con, six-speaker stereo, four USB ports, plus rear parking sensors and camera. The new MG3 Trophy adds leather-stye upholstery, keyless entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, and a clever 360-degree parking camera.
New 2024 MG3: engines and gearboxes
The new MG3 uses a novel petrol hybrid powertrain called Hybrid+. It is made up of five parts – engine, transmission, battery, electric motor and generator.
The new MG3’s engine is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which runs the efficient Atkinson cycle. It produces 102PS – while the additional electric motor produces 136PS. It means the system puts out a combined 195PS, which is a superb output for a small car, and notably higher than the new MG3’s hybrid rivals.
The new MG3 duly has strong performance, with 0-62mph taking just 8.0 seconds. Yet it’s economical too, with an expected combined average fuel economy of 64mpg. CO2 emissions are expected to start from just 100g/km.
The new MG3 is what’s known as a ‘self-charging’ hybrid. The battery is a small-capacity 1.83kWh unit, which is charged back up on the move, such as during braking. Because both it and the electric motor have a greater capacity than its hybrid rivals, it means the new MG3 will offer a surprising amount of pure electric motoring – even at higher speeds.
The new MG3’s Hybrid+ system switches automatically between EV mode and petrol power, aided by a novel three-speed automatic gearbox. This is said to be more natural and faster-responding than the alternative single-gear CVT transmission used by many other hybrids.
The new MG3 will be much more upmarket and comfortable than today’s car to drive, with nimble handling and a smooth, quiet ride. Of course, the ability to run in EV mode at lower speeds will also boost its in-city refinement. Meanwhile the convenience of a standard automatic gearbox helps make it easier to drive.
Find a used MG3 for sale
A used MG3 is a great place to start if you're seeking a good value used car on a budget. You can get a four-year old version for under £9000 these days, and even low-mileage 2022 cars can be found for less than £12,000. All are fitted with a 1.5-litre petrol engine, and there's a choice of well-specced trim levels. There are some fun, bright body colours too!
Looking for more new car news?
Renault recently wowed the world at the Geneva Motor Show with the launch of the exciting new Renault 5 E-Tech electric. We have all you need to know. The new Ford Puma is a refreshed version of Ford’s best-selling new car that arrives in time for spring 2024. Meanwhile, the Volkswagen ID.7 has recently become better value with the launch of a new Volkswagen ID.7 Match variant. The new Audi Q7 has also been revealed ahead of its UK launch later this year. We have news on the exciting new Polestar 4 as well, which follows hot on the heels of the new Porsche Macan.
The new MG3 is what’s known as a full hybrid. This combines a petrol engine with an electric motor and small, ‘self-charging’ battery. It is able to drive for short distances in pure electric mode, before the petrol engine kicks in to assist.
The new MG3 is built in China. It was designed there too, at the firm’s Shanghai design studio.
The new MG3 has a good amount of standard equipment. All models come with dual digital displays, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen. This has standard sat nav, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Air con, reverse parking sensors and a rear-view camera are also standard.
Exclusive first look at the new MG3
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