MG Roadster Electric Car Review Top Speed Range and More

The MG Roadster Electric Car delivers an exhilarating blend of performance and efficiency, boasting a top speed of 150 mph and a competitive range of up to 250 miles on a single charge. With its sleek design and rapid charging capability, this electric roadster is a standout choice for drivers seeking thrilling acceleration and everyday practicality in one stylish package.

Key Takeaways

• Top speed hits 115 mph: Delivers thrilling performance for an electric roadster.
• 250-mile range: Ideal for daily commutes and weekend getaways.
• Fast charging in 30 mins: 80% battery restored quickly on long trips.
• Lightweight design: Enhances agility and driving dynamics significantly.
• Premium interior tech: Features intuitive infotainment and driver aids.
• Competitive pricing: Offers luxury and value in one package.

The Future of Open-Top Driving: MG’s Electric Roadster Arrives

The automotive world is witnessing an electrifying transformation, and MG Motor is at the forefront of this revolution with its latest offering – the MG Roadster Electric Car. As the demand for sustainable mobility grows, manufacturers are reimagining classic designs through a modern, eco-conscious lens. The new MG Roadster represents the perfect fusion of nostalgic charm and cutting-edge electric vehicle technology, bringing the joy of open-top motoring into the 21st century.

For decades, roadsters have symbolized freedom, adventure, and pure driving pleasure. With the MG Roadster Electric, the British-Chinese automaker pays homage to its rich heritage while embracing the future. This two-seater convertible isn’t just another EV – it’s a statement of intent from MG, proving that electric vehicles can deliver excitement, style, and sustainability without compromise. Whether you’re a longtime MG enthusiast or an EV newcomer, this electric roadster promises to redefine your expectations of what an electric convertible can be.

Exterior Design: Classic Lines Meet Modern Innovation

Heritage-Inspired Styling with a Futuristic Twist

The MG Roadster Electric Car immediately captivates with its sleek, low-slung silhouette that pays tribute to MG’s iconic roadsters of the past. The designers have masterfully blended classic elements like the long hood and short rear deck with contemporary touches such as LED lighting signatures and aerodynamic bodywork. The front fascia features MG’s signature grille (now a closed panel since no radiator is needed) flanked by distinctive headlights that incorporate the brand’s new “Lightning” design language.

One of the most striking aspects is the convertible roof mechanism. Unlike traditional fabric roofs, the MG Roadster features a lightweight, retractable hardtop that disappears into the rear deck in just 12 seconds. This design choice provides better weather protection and security when closed while maintaining a clean, uninterrupted profile when open. The roof operates at speeds up to 31 mph, allowing for spontaneous open-air driving whenever the mood strikes.

Premium Materials and Attention to Detail

MG hasn’t cut corners when it comes to materials and craftsmanship. The Roadster Electric features:

• Aluminum hood and trunk lid for weight reduction
• Carbon fiber accents on the front splitter and rear diffuser
• 18-inch alloy wheels with a turbine-inspired design
• Hidden door handles that extend when the car senses the key fob
• Active grille shutters that optimize aerodynamics and battery cooling

The paint options include several vibrant colors like “Electric Blue” and “Solar Orange,” which shift in hue depending on lighting conditions. For those seeking a more classic look, traditional shades like “British Racing Green” and “Cream” are also available. The attention to detail extends to the smallest elements – even the door mirrors have integrated turn signals and cameras for the 360-degree view system.

Smart Features for Enhanced Usability

Modern roadsters need to be more than just beautiful – they need to be practical. The MG Roadster delivers with several innovative features:

• Rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights for all-weather driving
• Heated windshield and side mirrors to prevent fogging and ice buildup
• Gesture-controlled trunk that opens with a foot wave under the bumper
• Wireless phone charging pad in the center console
• LED ambient lighting with 32 color options that can pulse to music

These thoughtful touches ensure that the Roadster Electric isn’t just a weekend toy but a capable daily driver. The combination of classic design cues with modern technology creates a vehicle that looks timeless yet feels thoroughly contemporary.

Performance and Powertrain: Electric Excitement

Motor Configuration and Acceleration

Under the sculpted hood lies the heart of the MG Roadster Electric – a single permanent magnet synchronous motor driving the rear wheels. This rear-wheel-drive configuration provides the perfect balance of performance and handling, delivering:

• 250 kW (335 horsepower) – enough for exhilarating acceleration
• 440 Nm (325 lb-ft) of torque available instantly from 0 rpm
• 0-60 mph in 4.2 seconds – comparable to many gasoline-powered sports cars
• Top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited)

What’s remarkable is how this performance translates to real-world driving. Unlike internal combustion engines that need to rev up to reach peak power, the electric motor delivers maximum torque the moment you press the accelerator. This results in a linear, responsive power delivery that makes the Roadster Electric feel incredibly agile in city traffic while still having the muscle for highway overtaking.

Range and Efficiency: The All-Electric Advantage

One of the most important metrics for any EV is its range, and the MG Roadster Electric delivers competitive numbers:

• 300 miles on the WLTP cycle (approximately 260 miles EPA)
• 72 kWh battery capacity with liquid cooling system
• Energy consumption of 2.4 miles/kWh (combined)
• Regenerative braking with multiple levels of intensity

For context, this range means you can drive from London to Manchester (approximately 160 miles) and still have 140 miles of range remaining. The battery’s liquid cooling system ensures consistent performance in both hot and cold weather, addressing a common concern for EV owners in extreme climates. The regenerative braking system allows for one-pedal driving in urban areas, with the highest level recovering enough energy to extend range by up to 15% during city driving.

Driving Modes and Performance Tuning

The MG Roadster Electric offers four distinct driving modes that adjust the car’s behavior to suit different conditions:

• Eco: Maximizes range by limiting power output and adjusting climate control
• Normal: Balanced settings for everyday driving
• Sport: Increases throttle response, stiffens suspension, and sharpens steering
• Track: Disables stability control and maximizes power delivery for circuit driving

What sets the Roadster apart is how dramatically these modes change the car’s character. In Eco mode, the steering feels lighter, and the accelerator pedal has more resistance to encourage gentle inputs. Switch to Sport, and the car transforms into a focused machine with immediate response and sharper handling. The Track mode is particularly impressive – it not only disables stability control but also adjusts the torque vectoring system to allow for controlled oversteer, making the Roadster Electric genuinely fun on a racetrack.

Interior and Technology: Where Comfort Meets Innovation

Minimalist Design with Premium Materials

Step inside the MG Roadster Electric, and you’re greeted by a cabin that blends minimalist Scandinavian design with British craftsmanship. The dashboard features a clean, uncluttered layout with:

• Two 10.25-inch screens – one for the digital instrument cluster and one for infotainment
• Aluminum and piano black trim with optional carbon fiber accents
• Leather and Alcantara upholstery with contrast stitching
• Heated and ventilated seats with 8-way power adjustment
• Flat-bottomed steering wheel with paddle shifters for regenerative braking

The seating position is slightly reclined, placing the driver in an optimal position for both comfort and control. Despite the convertible design, MG has done an excellent job of minimizing wind buffeting with the roof down. At speeds up to 70 mph, the cabin remains quiet enough for normal conversation, thanks to the wind deflector and specially designed headrests.

Advanced Infotainment and Connectivity

The centerpiece of the Roadster’s interior is the 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, which runs MG’s latest iSMART 3.0 system. This system includes:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with dual phone pairing
• Over-the-air updates for maps, software, and features
• Voice control with natural language processing
• 3D navigation with real-time traffic and charging station information
• Premium 10-speaker audio system with noise compensation

One particularly useful feature is the “Charging Planner” that calculates the fastest route to your destination while ensuring you have enough range. It automatically adds charging stops when needed and can even pre-condition the battery for optimal charging speed when you arrive at a station. For example, if you’re planning a 200-mile trip with a DC fast charger at the midpoint, the system will adjust your departure time to ensure the battery is at the ideal temperature for fast charging.

Driver Assistance and Safety Features

Despite its sporty nature, the MG Roadster Electric doesn’t compromise on safety. It comes equipped with MG’s comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems:

• Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go for traffic jams
• Lane Keeping Assist with active steering correction
• Blind Spot Detection with cross-traffic alert
• Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• 360-degree camera system with parking guidance
• Driver Attention Monitoring that detects drowsiness

These systems work seamlessly in the background, providing an extra layer of protection without being intrusive. The adaptive cruise control is particularly impressive – it maintains a safe distance from the car ahead and can bring the Roadster to a complete stop in traffic, then automatically resume when traffic moves again. The lane keeping system gently steers the car back to the center of the lane if you drift unintentionally, making long highway journeys much less fatiguing.

Charging and Practical Considerations

Charging Options and Times

One of the biggest advantages of the MG Roadster Electric is its charging flexibility. The car supports three different charging methods:

• AC Charging (7.4 kW): 10-80% in 8 hours (ideal for overnight home charging)
• AC Charging (11 kW): 10-80% in 5 hours (requires home wallbox upgrade)
• DC Fast Charging (150 kW): 10-80% in 30 minutes (public charging stations)

For most owners, the 7.4 kW AC charging will be the primary method. With a full overnight charge (typically 10-12 hours), you can add approximately 250-300 miles of range. The car’s navigation system can also precondition the battery when a fast charger is programmed as a destination, which reduces charging times by up to 20% in cold weather.

Home Charging Solutions

MG offers several home charging solutions tailored to different needs:

• Standard Wallbox (7.4 kW): £499 installation included
• Fast Wallbox (11 kW): £799 with smart features
• Solar Integration: Optional solar roof tiles can offset 20-30% of annual charging needs

The smart wallbox is particularly useful – it can schedule charging for off-peak hours when electricity rates are lower and even integrate with home solar panels to maximize the use of self-generated power. For example, if your solar panels produce surplus energy during the day, the wallbox can automatically redirect this to charge your Roadster Electric, reducing your dependence on the grid.

Maintenance and Running Costs

One of the hidden benefits of electric vehicles is their significantly lower maintenance costs compared to internal combustion engines. The MG Roadster Electric requires:

• Service every 2 years or 20,000 miles (whichever comes first)
• No oil changes or exhaust system maintenance
• Regenerative braking reduces wear on brake pads
• 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty with 70% capacity retention guarantee

Annual running costs are approximately 40-50% lower than an equivalent gasoline roadster. For a typical driver covering 10,000 miles per year, the electricity cost would be around £600 compared to £1,200-£1,500 for gasoline. Add to this the savings on maintenance, road tax (zero for EVs in many countries), and parking fees (many cities offer free or discounted parking for electric vehicles), and the financial benefits become very compelling.

Ownership Experience and Verdict

The Daily Driver Potential

While the MG Roadster Electric is undeniably fun, it’s also remarkably practical as a daily driver. The 300-mile range means most owners won’t need to charge more than once a week under normal circumstances. The car’s compact dimensions (4.2 meters long) make it easy to park in city centers, and the 210-liter trunk provides enough space for weekend getaways – enough for two carry-on suitcases and a few soft bags.

The climate control system is particularly well-tuned for convertible driving. When the roof is down, it automatically increases airflow to compensate for the lack of enclosure. The heated seats and steering wheel make the Roadster Electric usable even in cooler weather, and the optional wind deflector reduces buffeting at highway speeds. These features ensure that the car remains enjoyable year-round, not just during sunny summer months.

Community and Ownership Perks

MG is building a strong community around its electric vehicles, and Roadster owners benefit from several exclusive perks:

• MG EV Owners Club with track days and social events
• Priority access to new charging stations in partnership with Ionity and other networks
• Free charging for first 2 years at select public stations
• Exclusive merchandise and accessories designed specifically for the Roadster

The MG EV app enhances the ownership experience with features like remote climate control, charging status monitoring, and vehicle locator. You can pre-heat or cool the cabin before getting in, check your remaining range, and even locate your car in a crowded parking lot – all from your smartphone.

Final Verdict: A New Benchmark for Electric Roadsters

The MG Roadster Electric Car represents a significant leap forward for electric convertibles. It combines the emotional appeal of open-top driving with the practical benefits of electric mobility, creating a vehicle that’s both exhilarating and sensible. With competitive pricing (starting around £45,000), strong performance, and a compelling range, it’s poised to attract both traditional MG enthusiasts and first-time EV buyers.

What’s particularly impressive is how MG has addressed the typical concerns about electric roadsters – range anxiety, charging infrastructure, and practicality – without compromising the car’s fun factor. The Roadster Electric proves that you don’t need to sacrifice driving enjoyment for sustainability. Whether you’re cruising along coastal roads with the top down or navigating city traffic with the roof up, this car delivers a unique blend of style, performance, and innovation.

MG Roadster Electric Car – Key Specifications

Specification	Value	Notes
Powertrain	Single permanent magnet synchronous motor (rear-wheel drive)	335 hp, 325 lb-ft torque
Battery Capacity	72 kWh (net)	Liquid-cooled, 8-year warranty
Range (WLTP)	300 miles	Approximately 260 miles EPA
0-60 mph	4.2 seconds	Launch control standard
Top Speed	155 mph (electronically limited)	No speed limiter in Track mode
Charging (DC Fast)	10-80% in 30 minutes	150 kW maximum charge rate
Charging (AC)	10-80% in 5-8 hours	11 kW or 7.4 kW options
Weight	1,650 kg	50:50 weight distribution
Trunk Capacity	210 liters	With roof up; 120 liters with roof down
Dimensions	4.2 m (L) × 1.8 m (W) × 1.3 m (H)	2.5 m wheelbase

The MG Roadster Electric Car is more than just another EV – it’s a statement of what’s possible when heritage and innovation come together. With its compelling combination of style, performance, and practicality, it sets a new standard for electric roadsters and proves that the future of open-top motoring is electric. Whether you’re drawn to its classic-inspired design, exhilarating performance, or sustainable credentials, this is a car that deserves serious consideration for anyone looking to embrace the electric revolution without sacrificing the joy of driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the top speed of the MG Roadster electric car?

The MG Roadster electric car has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h), making it a competitive option in the affordable electric sports car segment. This speed is achievable thanks to its efficient electric motor and lightweight design.

How far can the MG Roadster electric car go on a single charge?

The MG Roadster offers an estimated range of 200 miles (322 km) on a full charge, based on WLTP testing standards. Actual range may vary depending on driving conditions, speed, and climate usage.

How long does it take to charge the MG Roadster electric car?

Using a DC fast charger, the MG Roadster can charge from 10% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes. With a standard home AC charger (7.4 kW), a full charge takes around 9 hours, ideal for overnight charging.

Does the MG Roadster electric car come with fast-charging capability?

Yes, the MG Roadster electric car supports DC fast charging, allowing drivers to recharge quickly on long trips. This feature significantly reduces downtime compared to older electric models without fast-charging options.

What features come standard in the MG Roadster electric car?

The MG Roadster includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, LED headlights, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. These features enhance both comfort and safety.

Is the MG Roadster electric car suitable for daily commuting?

Absolutely, the MG Roadster electric car is ideal for daily commutes thanks to its compact size, agile handling, and 200-mile range. Its quiet electric motor and low running costs also make it economical and enjoyable for city and highway driving.