MG 4 Electric Car Review A Compact EV with Big Potential

The MG 4 Electric Car delivers impressive value as a compact EV, combining a spacious interior, 200+ mile range, and agile handling at a competitive price. With fast-charging capability, a tech-rich cabin, and standout styling, it’s a serious contender in the affordable electric hatchback segment.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: The MG 4 delivers premium EV features at a budget-friendly cost.
• Impressive range: Up to 270 miles on a single charge for confident daily driving.
• Spacious interior: Compact exterior hides a surprisingly roomy and practical cabin.
• Fast charging: 10–80% in 30 minutes with DC rapid charging support.
• Smart tech: Loaded with intuitive infotainment and advanced driver assistance systems.
• Eco-friendly materials: Sustainable interior fabrics enhance its green credentials.

MG 4 Electric Car Review: A Compact EV with Big Potential

The electric vehicle (EV) market is growing at a rapid pace, and the MG 4 Electric Car has emerged as a compelling option for those seeking an affordable, practical, and stylish compact EV. With the rising demand for sustainable transportation, MG Motor has positioned the MG 4 to appeal to both first-time EV buyers and seasoned drivers looking to downsize without compromising on features. Priced competitively and packed with modern technology, the MG 4 promises to deliver value, efficiency, and driving enjoyment in a sleek package.

Launched as part of MG’s ambitious electrification strategy, the MG 4 Electric Car stands out in a crowded segment dominated by established players like the Nissan Leaf, Hyundai Kona Electric, and the Volkswagen ID.3. What sets the MG 4 apart is its blend of affordability, long-range capability, and cutting-edge tech—all wrapped in a modern, aerodynamic design. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on weekend getaways, the MG 4 aims to make the EV transition smoother and more accessible. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore every aspect of the MG 4, from its design and performance to its interior, safety, and real-world usability, to determine if it truly lives up to its promise of big potential.

Design and Exterior: Modern, Aerodynamic, and Eye-Catching

Exterior Styling and Aerodynamics

The MG 4 Electric Car boasts a design that’s both futuristic and functional. From the front, it features a sleek, grille-less fascia—a hallmark of EVs—accentuated by sharp LED headlights and a dynamic lower bumper. The absence of a traditional radiator grille reduces drag, contributing to the car’s impressive 0.278 Cd drag coefficient, which enhances range and efficiency. The sloping roofline, muscular haunches, and 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels give it a sporty, coupe-like silhouette, making it visually distinct from many boxy EVs in its class.

One standout feature is the floating roof design, achieved through blacked-out A- and C-pillars, which adds a touch of sophistication. The rear is equally striking, with a full-width LED light bar and a subtle spoiler that improves aerodynamics. MG offers the MG 4 in a range of vibrant colors, including Dynamic Red, Arctic White, and Volcano Orange, allowing buyers to express their personality. The overall design is not just about aesthetics—it’s engineered for efficiency, with flush door handles and active air intakes that optimize airflow.

Build Quality and Practicality

The MG 4 is built on MG’s Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), a dedicated EV architecture that prioritizes space, safety, and flexibility. Despite its compact footprint (4.29 meters long), the car maximizes interior space thanks to the flat floor and optimized battery placement. The boot offers a generous 363 liters of cargo space, expandable to 1,177 liters with the rear seats folded—ideal for urban dwellers and small families. The wide-opening tailgate and low loading height make it easy to stow bulky items like strollers or luggage.

Build quality is solid, with tight panel gaps and high-quality materials used throughout. While the plastics in the lower sections of the interior are hard to the touch (a cost-saving measure), the upper surfaces feature soft-touch materials, and the fit-and-finish is on par with competitors. The MG 4’s design strikes a balance between premium appeal and practicality, making it a strong contender in the sub-$40,000 EV segment.

Interior and Technology: A Tech-Savvy Cabin with Room to Grow

Dashboard and Infotainment

Step inside the MG 4, and you’re greeted by a minimalist, driver-focused cabin. The highlight is the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, mounted high on the dashboard for easy visibility. The system runs MG’s latest iSmart OS, which offers crisp graphics, intuitive menus, and seamless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While the interface is responsive, the lack of physical buttons for climate control can be frustrating—especially in cold weather when gloves make touchscreens hard to use.

The digital instrument cluster (12.3 inches in higher trims) is configurable and provides essential driving data, including battery charge, range, and energy flow. One innovative feature is the augmented reality (AR) navigation in top-tier models, which overlays directional arrows on a live camera feed of the road ahead—a game-changer for complex intersections. However, the system occasionally lags during startup, which could be improved with software updates.

Comfort, Space, and Materials

The MG 4 seats five, with front seats that are supportive and well-padded, though taller drivers may find the legroom slightly tight. The rear bench is spacious enough for two adults, with decent headroom and legroom, thanks to the MSP platform’s flat floor. The panoramic sunroof (available in higher trims) adds a sense of airiness, but it can make the cabin warm in sunny climates—consider tinting if you live in a hot region.

Material quality is a mixed bag. The dashboard and door inserts use soft-touch materials, but the lower door panels and center console are hard plastic. MG offers fabric, leatherette, and full leather upholstery options, with the latter providing a more premium feel. The ambient lighting (12 colors in top trims) adds a touch of luxury, and the cabin remains impressively quiet at city speeds, though some road noise creeps in at highway speeds.

Performance and Driving Experience: Power, Range, and Handling

Powertrain and Range Options

The MG 4 Electric Car comes with three battery and motor configurations:

• 51 kWh battery (Standard Range): 170 hp, 250 Nm torque, up to 218 miles (WLTP).
• 64 kWh battery (Long Range): 203 hp, 250 Nm torque, up to 270 miles (WLTP).
• 77 kWh battery (Extended Range): 245 hp, 350 Nm torque, up to 323 miles (WLTP).

The Long Range model is the sweet spot for most buyers, offering a real-world range of 220–240 miles in mixed driving conditions. The Extended Range variant is ideal for those with longer commutes or frequent road trips, though its higher price tag may deter budget-conscious buyers. All versions support 150 kW DC fast charging, which can replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in about 28 minutes—perfect for quick top-ups during errands.

On-Road Performance and Handling

Behind the wheel, the MG 4 delivers a balanced, engaging drive. The electric motor’s instant torque provides brisk acceleration (0–60 mph in 7.5 seconds for the Long Range model), making it effortless to merge onto highways or overtake slow-moving traffic. The steering is light and precise, with three modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) to tailor the responsiveness. In Sport mode, the car feels more agile, though the suspension remains tuned for comfort over sportiness.

The MG 4’s low center of gravity (thanks to the underfloor battery) enhances cornering stability, and the independent suspension soaks up bumps well—even on rough city roads. Regenerative braking is adjustable via paddle shifters, with a one-pedal driving mode that’s perfect for stop-and-go traffic. However, the brake pedal feels slightly numb in this mode, requiring a learning curve for new EV drivers.

Real-World Driving Tips

• Maximize range in winter: Precondition the cabin while plugged in to preserve battery charge.
• Use Eco mode for city driving: It reduces energy consumption by limiting motor output and climate control.
• Plan charging stops: Use apps like Zap-Map to locate fast chargers on long trips.

Charging and Efficiency: Practical for Daily Use

Charging Infrastructure and Times

The MG 4 supports a wide range of charging options, making it adaptable to different lifestyles:

• AC Charging (7.4 kW): 0–100% in 10 hours (Standard Range), 12 hours (Long Range).
• AC Charging (11 kW): 0–100% in 6.5 hours (Standard Range), 8 hours (Long Range)—ideal for home wallboxes.
• DC Fast Charging (150 kW): 10–80% in 28 minutes (all models).

For most users, a 7.4 kW home charger (costing $500–$1,000 installed) is sufficient for overnight charging. MG also partners with charging networks like Ionity and BP Pulse, offering free charging credits with new purchases in some regions. Public charging is hassle-free, but availability varies—urban areas have robust networks, while rural regions may require planning.

Energy Efficiency and Costs

The MG 4’s efficiency is commendable, averaging 3.8–4.2 mi/kWh in real-world driving. This translates to a cost of about $0.03–$0.04 per mile (assuming $0.15/kWh electricity). Over 15,000 miles annually, that’s a savings of $1,000+ compared to a gas-powered car. The car’s energy recovery system further boosts efficiency by converting braking energy into stored power.

Here’s a breakdown of annual charging costs (15,000 miles):

Charging Scenario	Cost (15,000 miles)
Home Charging (7.4 kW)	$600–$800
Public Charging (DC Fast)	$900–$1,200
Mixed (Home + Public)	$750–$1,000

Safety and Reliability: Built to Protect

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

The MG 4 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, earning a 5-star Euro NCAP rating. Key systems include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a safe distance from the vehicle ahead.
• Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Gently corrects steering if you drift out of your lane.
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.
• Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots.
• 360-Degree Camera: Aids in parking and tight maneuvers.

The ACC and LKA work well on highways, reducing driver fatigue on long journeys. However, the system can be overly sensitive in heavy traffic, occasionally applying brakes too abruptly. The 360-degree camera is a godsend for parallel parking, though the resolution could be sharper.

Structural Safety and Reliability

The MG 4’s MSP platform uses high-strength steel in critical areas, creating a rigid safety cage. The battery pack is protected by a reinforced underbody shield, and the car features eight airbags (including side curtains). In crash tests, it performed admirably, with high scores for adult and child occupant protection.

Reliability is a concern for some, as MG is still building its reputation in the EV space. However, the car comes with a 7-year/80,000-mile warranty (extendable to 10 years), covering the battery and powertrain. Early owner reports suggest few major issues, though software glitches (e.g., infotainment freezes) have been noted—likely to be fixed with updates.

Value for Money: A Compelling Proposition

Pricing and Trim Levels

The MG 4 starts at $30,000 (Standard Range) and climbs to $42,000 (Extended Range) before incentives. Trim levels include:

• SE: Basic but well-equipped (LED lights, 10.25″ screen, ACC).
• Trophy: Adds leather seats, 18″ wheels, and a 360-degree camera.
• Trophy Connect: Top-tier with AR navigation, heated steering wheel, and premium audio.

Compared to rivals, the MG 4 undercuts the Nissan Leaf e+ by $5,000 and the ID.3 by $3,000, while offering similar or better range. Federal and state EV incentives (e.g., $7,500 U.S. tax credit) can reduce the effective price further.

Total Cost of Ownership

Beyond the purchase price, the MG 4 shines in long-term value. With minimal maintenance (no oil changes, fewer moving parts), lower insurance (due to safety features), and cheap charging, it’s significantly cheaper to own than a gas car. A 5-year cost analysis shows:

• Fuel/Charging: $3,750 (vs. $6,000 for gas).
• Maintenance: $1,200 (vs. $2,500 for gas).
• Depreciation: 40% (competitive for EVs).

The MG 4’s low running costs and strong warranty make it a smart financial choice, especially for high-mileage drivers.

The MG 4 Electric Car is a standout in the compact EV segment, offering a rare combination of affordability, range, technology, and driving enjoyment. While it has minor flaws—like the touch-sensitive climate controls and occasional software quirks—its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. For urban commuters, the Standard Range model provides ample daily range, while the Long and Extended Range variants cater to those with longer journeys. The car’s safety credentials, charging flexibility, and low ownership costs make it a pragmatic choice, and its stylish design ensures you won’t blend into the crowd.

Ultimately, the MG 4 proves that you don’t need to spend $50,000+ to get a great EV. It’s a gateway to electric mobility that doesn’t compromise on quality or features. If MG continues to refine the software and expand its charging partnerships, the MG 4 could become a benchmark for value-focused EVs. For anyone considering their first or next electric car, the MG 4 deserves a top spot on your test-drive list. With big potential and even bigger appeal, this compact EV is poised to electrify the market—one mile at a time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the MG 4 stand out in the compact EV market?

The MG 4 Electric Car stands out with its sleek design, impressive 200+ mile range, and affordable pricing—making it a strong contender against rivals like the Nissan Leaf. Its modular platform also allows for flexible battery options and future upgrades.

How does the MG 4’s performance compare to other electric cars?

The MG 4 delivers zippy acceleration (0-60 mph in 7.7 seconds) and responsive handling, outperforming many budget EVs. Its rear-wheel-drive setup and balanced chassis provide a more engaging drive than front-heavy competitors.

What is the battery range of the MG 4 Electric Car?

The MG 4 offers two battery options: a 51 kWh pack with 198 miles of range and a 64 kWh version reaching 248 miles (WLTP). Real-world driving typically achieves 85-90% of these estimates in mixed conditions.

Is the MG 4 suitable for long-distance travel?

Yes, thanks to its 150 kW DC fast charging (10-80% in 35 minutes) and efficient energy use. The spacious interior and adaptive cruise control further enhance comfort on extended journeys.

How safe is the MG 4 Electric Car?

The MG 4 earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, featuring advanced driver aids like lane-keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Its rigid battery-integrated chassis also improves crash protection.

What are the downsides of the MG 4 EV?

Some users note the infotainment system can lag, and the rear seats lack headroom for taller passengers. However, these trade-offs are common in the sub-£30k EV segment.