● Second-generation supermini has firm’s first full-hybrid powertrain● Chinese brand claims auto-only hatchback can return up to 64mpg
Ellis Hyde Ellis_Hyde@autovia.co.uk@EllisDrives
THE all-new, Mk2 MG3 has finally been unveiled – more than a decade after the current model was launched – and is aiming to disrupt the supermini class and challenge the Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris.
Revealed at the Geneva Motor Show this week, the MG3 looks to make several leaps forward from the original. Chief among them is the use of MG’s first full-hybrid powertrain, similar to those used by the Yaris and Clio.
The ‘Hybrid Plus’ system features a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor to drive the front wheels. Combined output is 192bhp, with up to 250Nm of torque available from the e-motor alone.
A separate generator motor is used to feed the MG3’s 1.83kWh battery, or directly to the main electric motor if need be. Meanwhile, the petrol engine is linked to a three-speed automatic transmission that MG claims is more responsive than a CVT.
The main benefit of the hybrid powertrain is efficiency, with the new MG3 officially
capable of returning up to 64mpg, with CO2
emissions of 100g/km. This is aided by the car’s ability to drive on EV power for short periods, and at up to 50mph in electric mode.
But with the e-motor producing 134bhp – more than the petrol engine, in fact – MG says it handles much of the heavy lifting, including accelerating, before the engine has to lend a hand or take over.
As a result, the new MG3 can sprint from 0-62mph in eight seconds, compared with more than nine seconds for its Clio and Yaris rivals. The MG also needs just five seconds to get from 50-75mph – useful when joining the motorway, for example.
Design-wise, the MG3 is defined by a gigantic grille that stretches across its face. This is flanked by a set of similarly large air intakes, with a carbon-fibre-effect splitter below. But the rear is a simpler affair.
There are elements that are shared with the all-electric MG4 hatchback, too, such as swept-back lights, flowing bodywork, pronounced bonnet lines and large chrome MG badge on the bonnet and bootlid.
The cabin has twin floating displays – again
