MG 3 Electric Car Review Top Features and Performance Insights

The MG 3 Electric Car delivers impressive value with a 320 km real-world range and rapid 30-minute DC fast charging, making it a practical choice for urban commuters. Its zippy acceleration, tech-packed cabin with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and affordable price tag set it apart in the competitive compact EV segment.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: The MG 3 Electric offers great value in the compact EV segment.
• Impressive range: Delivers up to 150 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: 30-minute DC fast charge adds 80% battery life.
• Smart tech: Features a user-friendly infotainment system with smartphone integration.
• Smooth handling: Responsive steering and compact size ideal for city driving.
• Low running costs: Minimal maintenance and energy-efficient performance save money.

Introduction: A New Era for Compact EVs

The electric vehicle revolution is no longer limited to luxury sedans and SUVs. With the MG 3 Electric Car, the iconic British brand (now under Chinese ownership via SAIC Motor) brings affordability, style, and modern technology to the compact EV segment. As urban drivers, young professionals, and eco-conscious families seek sustainable transportation without compromising on value, the MG 3 Electric emerges as a compelling contender. It’s not just a city car—it’s a statement that electric mobility can be accessible, practical, and fun.

Launched in select global markets with increasing momentum, the MG 3 Electric represents a strategic shift in how automakers approach entry-level EVs. Unlike some rivals that prioritize cost-cutting over innovation, MG has packed this hatchback with advanced features, a competitive range, and a design that turns heads. Whether you’re navigating narrow city streets, commuting daily, or taking weekend trips, the MG 3 Electric aims to deliver a balanced blend of performance, comfort, and tech. In this comprehensive MG 3 Electric Car review, we’ll explore its top features, real-world performance, interior quality, charging capabilities, and how it stacks up against the competition—giving you everything you need to decide if this is the right EV for your lifestyle.

Design and Exterior: Stylish, Compact, and Aerodynamic

Bold Aesthetic with Modern Touches

The MG 3 Electric stands out with a refreshed design language that blends sporty cues with futuristic EV elements. Up front, the closed-off grille—a hallmark of electric vehicles—features a dynamic mesh pattern and a prominent MG logo. LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs) give the car a sharp, modern appearance, while the lower bumper includes subtle aerodynamic channels to reduce drag. The overall silhouette is compact yet muscular, with a slightly raised ride height that enhances visibility without sacrificing agility.

From the side, the MG 3 Electric showcases sharp character lines and 16-inch alloy wheels (with optional 17-inch designs), adding a touch of sophistication. The blacked-out A- and C-pillars create a floating roof effect, a design trend popularized by premium models but now trickling down to budget-friendly EVs. At the rear, C-shaped LED taillights connect via a light bar, emphasizing width and modernity. The rear bumper integrates a diffuser-style element, reinforcing the car’s sporty intent.

Compact Dimensions, Big Urban Advantage

With a length of 3,995 mm, a width of 1,722 mm, and a height of 1,504 mm, the MG 3 Electric is perfectly sized for city driving. Its 2,500 mm wheelbase provides a stable platform without making the car unwieldy in tight spaces. For context, this makes it slightly shorter than the Renault Zoe but longer than the Smart EQ ForTwo—positioning it as a Goldilocks-sized hatchback: not too big, not too small.

Practical Tip: Use the MG 3’s compact footprint to your advantage in urban environments. Its tight turning radius (just 5.1 meters) allows for easy U-turns and parallel parking, while the elevated driving position gives you a commanding view of traffic and pedestrians.

Color Options and Customization

MG offers the 3 Electric in a range of vibrant colors, including:

• Arctic White (standard)
• Dynamic Red (premium)
• Midnight Black
• Ocean Blue
• Sunset Orange (limited edition)

Interior trim options include black fabric, sporty red accents, and optional leatherette upholstery on higher trims. While the materials are primarily soft-touch plastics and durable textiles, the build quality feels solid for its class. MG also offers optional body decals and wheel designs, allowing buyers to personalize their EV without breaking the bank.

Interior and Technology: Smart, Spacious, and Connected

Cabin Layout and Material Quality

Step inside the MG 3 Electric, and you’re greeted by a clean, driver-focused dashboard. The interior design prioritizes ergonomics, with all controls within easy reach. While the cabin uses hard plastics in high-touch areas (a common compromise in this price range), MG has minimized the “cheap” feel through thoughtful texturing and consistent panel gaps. The seats are supportive, with adequate bolstering for spirited driving, and the driving position is upright and comfortable.

Rear passengers benefit from surprisingly generous legroom for a sub-4-meter car, thanks to the EV platform’s flat floor. Three adults can fit in a pinch, though two adults or three children are more realistic for long trips. The 280-liter boot (expandable to 980 liters with rear seats folded) is competitive for the class—enough for weekly groceries, a stroller, or a weekend getaway’s worth of luggage.

Infotainment and Connectivity

At the heart of the MG 3 Electric’s tech suite is a 10.25-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system. It runs on MG’s iSmart OS, which is intuitive and responsive, with crisp graphics and minimal lag. Key features include:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired and wireless on higher trims)
• Bluetooth 5.0 with dual-device pairing
• Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
• Voice control via “Hey, MG” assistant
• Built-in navigation with real-time traffic

The system also integrates with the MG App, allowing remote functions like climate pre-conditioning, charging status checks, and door locking/unlocking. For example, on a cold morning, you can start the heater remotely while still in bed—ensuring a warm cabin when you leave.

Digital Instrument Cluster and Driver Aids

Behind the steering wheel sits a 7-inch digital instrument cluster that displays speed, battery level, range, and energy flow. It’s customizable, with three themes: Standard, Sport, and Minimalist. The Sport mode, for instance, highlights power output and regen braking intensity—ideal for performance-minded drivers.

Standard driver assistance features include:

• Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with stop-and-go
• Rear Parking Sensors with Camera

Pro Tip: Use the ACC on highways to reduce driver fatigue. The system maintains a safe distance from the car ahead and can bring the MG 3 to a complete stop in traffic—perfect for congested commutes.

Performance and Driving Experience: Agile, Efficient, and Responsive

Motor and Powertrain Specifications

The MG 3 Electric is powered by a single permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) mounted on the front axle. Output varies by market, but most regions receive a 136 hp (100 kW) and 250 Nm of torque configuration. This translates to a 0-60 mph time of approximately 7.7 seconds—faster than many rivals like the Fiat 500e and Peugeot e-208. Top speed is electronically limited to 100 mph (161 km/h), which is more than adequate for highway driving.

The motor delivers instant torque, giving the MG 3 Electric a zippy feel off the line. Acceleration is smooth and linear, with no turbo lag or gear shifts to interrupt the flow. The car feels particularly nimble in city traffic, where its low center of gravity and responsive steering make it a joy to maneuver.

Driving Modes and Regenerative Braking

Drivers can choose from three driving modes:

• Eco: Softens throttle response, reduces HVAC output, and maximizes regen braking to extend range.
• Normal: Balanced performance and efficiency—ideal for daily driving.
• Sport: Sharpens throttle response, increases regen intensity, and enhances steering feedback.

The regenerative braking system offers four levels (0 to 3), with Level 3 enabling one-pedal driving in stop-and-go traffic. For example, in Level 3, lifting off the accelerator slows the car significantly, often eliminating the need to use the brake pedal until the final stop. This not only conserves energy but also reduces brake wear over time.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The MG 3 Electric uses a MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension setup—typical for its class. On smooth roads, the ride is comfortable, with minimal road noise. However, on rough pavement or potholes, the suspension can feel a bit firm, especially with the optional 17-inch wheels. That said, the car maintains excellent stability at highway speeds, with minimal body roll during cornering.

Steering is light at low speeds (great for parking) but firms up at higher speeds, providing a sense of confidence. The electric power steering (EPS) system is precise, with minimal dead zone—ideal for navigating tight city streets or winding country roads.

Real-World Range and Efficiency

The MG 3 Electric comes with a 50.8 kWh lithium-ion battery pack (usable capacity: 48.2 kWh), delivering a WLTP-rated range of up to 214 miles (344 km) on a full charge. In real-world conditions, expect:

• City driving: 180–200 miles (290–320 km)
• Highway driving (70 mph): 140–160 miles (225–257 km)
• Mixed driving: 160–180 miles (257–290 km)

Energy consumption averages 3.7–4.2 mi/kWh, making it highly efficient. For comparison, a 20-mile daily commute would consume about 5–6 kWh—costing less than $1 per day at average electricity rates.

Charging and Battery: Fast, Flexible, and Future-Ready

Charging Options and Times

The MG 3 Electric supports multiple charging methods, catering to different lifestyles:

Charging Type	Power	0–100% Time	Use Case
Home (AC) – 7.4 kW	7.4 kW	7 hours 30 mins	Overnight charging
Public (AC) – 11 kW	11 kW	5 hours	Shopping malls, workplaces
DC Fast Charging – 50 kW	50 kW	30 mins (10–80%)	Long trips, emergencies
DC Ultra-Fast – 100 kW	100 kW	20 mins (10–80%)	Rapid top-ups on highways

The car’s CCS2 (Combined Charging System) port is located on the front fender, making it accessible from both sides. MG includes a Type 2 AC cable as standard, while the DC charging cable is optional.

Smart Charging and Energy Management

The iSmart OS includes a “Smart Charging” feature that lets you schedule charging during off-peak hours to save money. For example, set it to start at 11 PM when electricity rates drop. The system also calculates the optimal charging level based on your next trip—avoiding unnecessary 100% charges, which can degrade battery health over time.

MG offers an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty with 70% capacity retention—a strong assurance for long-term owners. The battery uses NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) chemistry, known for high energy density and thermal stability.

Home Charging Tips

For the best ownership experience, install a home EV charger. Here’s how:

• Choose a 7.4 kW unit for overnight charging (cost: $500–$800 installed).
• Use a dedicated circuit (240V) to avoid tripping breakers.
• Position the charger within 15 feet of the parking spot for easy access.
• Consider solar integration to charge with renewable energy.

Value, Pricing, and Competition: Where the MG 3 Electric Shines

Trim Levels and Pricing

The MG 3 Electric is offered in three trims:

• Excite: Base model with 16″ wheels, manual A/C, 8″ touchscreen, and basic ADAS. Priced from $28,500.
• Exclusive: Adds 10.25″ screen, climate control, wireless CarPlay, and rear camera. Priced from $31,000.
• Exclusive Plus: Top trim with 17″ alloys, panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and premium audio. Priced from $33,500.

All prices are before government incentives. In the U.S., buyers may qualify for a $7,500 federal tax credit, while European markets offer grants of €3,000–€6,000 depending on the country.

Comparison with Key Rivals

Here’s how the MG 3 Electric stacks up against competitors:

• Renault Zoe: Similar price, but the Zoe has a smaller 52 kWh battery (245-mile WLTP range) and weaker infotainment.
• Peugeot e-208: More premium interior, but costs $3,000–$5,000 more. Range is comparable (217 miles WLTP).
• Smart #1: Larger and more tech-heavy, but starts at $38,000—$5,000 above the MG 3.
• BYD Dolphin: Slightly cheaper (~$26,000), with similar specs, but less brand recognition in Western markets.

The MG 3 Electric’s biggest advantage is its balanced value proposition: it delivers premium features (like a panoramic sunroof and adaptive cruise) at a price point that undercuts most European EVs.

Running Costs and Ownership Benefits

EVs are cheaper to run than ICE cars, and the MG 3 Electric is no exception:

• Fuel savings: $600–$800/year vs. a gasoline hatchback (based on 12,000 miles/year).
• Maintenance: No oil changes, spark plugs, or exhaust systems. Annual service costs: $150–$200.
• Insurance: Slightly higher than ICE models, but offset by tax incentives and lower depreciation.

MG also offers a 5-year/unlimited-mileage vehicle warranty and 24/7 roadside assistance—adding peace of mind for new EV owners.

Conclusion: The MG 3 Electric is a Smart Choice for Modern Drivers

The MG 3 Electric Car is more than just an affordable EV—it’s a well-rounded package that excels in design, technology, performance, and value. Its compact size makes it ideal for city dwellers, while its 200+ mile range ensures it’s capable of weekend adventures. The interior is thoughtfully designed, with a modern infotainment system and a surprising amount of space for a sub-4-meter hatchback.

What truly sets the MG 3 Electric apart is its feature-to-price ratio. For under $34,000, you get a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and a 214-mile range—features that would cost thousands more in European rivals. The charging flexibility, smart energy management, and strong warranty further enhance its appeal.

Of course, no car is perfect. The ride can be firm on rough roads, and the interior materials won’t match a $40,000 EV. But for buyers seeking a reliable, stylish, and practical electric hatchback without the premium price tag, the MG 3 Electric delivers in spades. As MG expands its EV lineup and charging network, the 3 Electric stands as a testament to how far budget-friendly EVs have come—and where they’re headed next.

If you’re ready to make the switch to electric, the MG 3 deserves a top spot on your test drive list. It’s not just a car; it’s the future of affordable mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the standout features of the MG 3 Electric Car?

The MG 3 Electric Car boasts a sleek design, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a 50.8 kWh battery offering up to 213 miles of range. It also includes advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

How does the performance of the MG 3 Electric Car compare to rivals?

The MG 3 Electric Car delivers a zippy 134 hp motor, reaching 0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds—competitive for its class. Its responsive handling and compact size make it ideal for urban driving.

What is the charging time for the MG 3 Electric Car?

Using a 50 kW DC fast charger, the MG 3 Electric Car can charge from 10% to 80% in just 40 minutes. A full charge with a 7 kW home charger takes around 7.5 hours.

Is the MG 3 Electric Car affordable for budget buyers?

Yes, the MG 3 Electric Car is one of the most affordable EVs in its segment, with a competitive starting price and low running costs. It also qualifies for government EV incentives in many regions.

Does the MG 3 Electric Car have enough space for passengers and cargo?

Despite its compact size, the MG 3 Electric Car offers ample legroom for front passengers and a decent 240L boot space, expandable to 980L with rear seats folded.

How safe is the MG 3 Electric Car?

The MG 3 Electric Car includes a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, thanks to its suite of driver aids and robust build quality. Features like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring enhance safety.