For the first time the MG3 will be available to customers across Europe, having solely been offered in the UK previously. Two specifications will be available in Ireland at launch, both sharing the all-new Hybrid+ powertrain. MG’s work on this hybrid system sees a larger battery fitted, and a more powerful electric motor, setting new standards in the B-segment.
The B-segment hatchback is more spacious than the outgoing model, while retaining the compact footprint that makes the MG3 such a popular model in the UK, particularly for those mainly covering urban driving routes. Boasting high levels of interior equipment and space – matching the best-in-class – the MG3 Hybrid+ offers customers both practicality and efficiency. Value is further boosted with MG’s trademark seven-year/150,000 km warranty included as standard.
Andrew Johnson, National Sales Manager at MG Motor Ireland, remarked that “The brand-new MG3 is poised to lead its segment, thanks to its blend of efficiency and performance delivered by the innovative Hybrid+ powertrain from MG. He noted “That the MG3 not only embodies a higher level of refinement but also encapsulates MG's ethos of delivering enjoyable driving experiences. Moreover, the vehicle comes exceptionally well-equipped, both with premium interior features and MG Pilot safety systems.”
MG’s Hybrid+ powertrain technology makes its debut on the all-new MG3, and is the first conventional, non-plug-in hybrid system fitted to an MG model. At its core, there are five key elements to the all-new Hybrid+ system – engine, transmission, battery, electric motor, and generator.
Despite focusing on efficiency, the electrified technology naturally delivers excellent performance benefits. MG’s Hybrid+ powertrain makes the MG3 the fastest accelerating hybrid B-segment model in the class, with a 0-100km/h sprint time of 8.0 seconds. Accelerating to highway speeds – from 80-120km/h – is equally impressive, at just 5.0 seconds.
Producing a combined 143kW, the MG3 Hybrid+ returns economy figures of 4.4l/100km and 100g/km CO2*. This is aided by a 1.83kWh battery, allowing for an extensive electric-only driving range – significantly boosting efficiency.
The all-new MG3 features a 75kW 1.5-litre petrol engine and 100kW electric motor, as well as separate generator motor which enables a wide variety of powertrain operating modes. This not only provides class-leading performance figures for a hybrid B-segment hatchback, but also allows for flexible running no matter the driving environment.
This enables the MG3 to be driven in the following drive modes, each automatically selected by the Hybrid+ system:
The four-cylinder 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle petrol engine produces 75kW (102 PS), offering exceptionally high thermal efficiency at 41%. Combined with the 100kW (136 PS) electric motor, the Hybrid+ system provides a broad range of power across the rev range.
With a more powerful motor installed, much of the high-load driving – accelerating for example – can be carried out under electric power, with the petrol engine seamlessly supporting or taking over at higher speeds.
The engine is connected to a three-speed automatic transmission, which allows for both an efficient and enjoyable driving experience. Crucially, the MG3 offers responsive acceleration, while also providing smooth and refined shifting.
Drivers can tailor the MG3’s responsiveness with the choice of three driving modes – Eco, Standard, and Sport. Eco mode is calibrated for optimum fuel economy and provides gentle throttle response for drivers, while Standard provides a blend between economy and performance, and works well for most trip types. Sport sees a more responsive calibration, getting the best out of the combined power output, delivering some of the best performance figures in the hybrid B-segment hatchback class.
The all-new MG3 offers a dynamic driving experience, as well as high levels of comfort, with compact proportions and an agile set-up, the MG3 offers a refined drive but keeps MG’s ‘fun-to-drive’ ethos at its core. It benefits from the use of new ultra-high stiffness components in the chassis, while suspension elements have been designed to reduce weight and improve grip for both athletic handling and a comfortable ride.
As well as offering an ideally balanced set-up between comfort and dynamism, thanks in part to the new hybrid powertrain with its ability to run on electric power for short periods, the all-new MG3 also delivers new highs in refinement and noise suppression. Engineers have focused on engine and suspension mounts, sound absorbing materials, and transmission design to reduce noise, vibration, and harshness to provide a premium driving experience.
The all-new MG3 arrives with two derivatives for Irish customers – Excite and Exclusive. Each of these are set to challenge other B-segment models in terms of technology and features offered as standard.
A standout feature for customers is the twin-screen cockpit. Drivers have a 7” digital instrument screen, as well as a 10,25” central infotainment system. Graphics and responsiveness have been enhanced by MG engineers for the twin floating screens, and a bank of piano-key switches has been retained on the centre console to maximise safety and convenience while driving.
Satellite navigation is fitted as standard, as is smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. MG iSMART provides levels of connectivity and features to MG3 customers that would more commonly be associated with premium models.
Other equipment highlights include air conditioning, audio system with Bluetooth connection, four USB ports, and rear parking sensors and camera. Higher trim levels add leather-style upholstery, keyless entry, heated front seats and steering wheel, and 360-degree camera.
The MG3 also benefits from the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). Increased safety is delivered through MG Pilot technology, which includes Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, and Traffic Jam Assist.
New from the ground up, the MG3 is both longer and wider than the model it replaces, freeing up more interior space for occupants, as well as offering the largest boot space in the hybrid B-segment class.
Designed by MG’s Shanghai studio, the all-new MG3 has a range of styling features for customers to choose from, including alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a new colour palette.
The MG3 will be available in the following colours for Irish customers: White, Blue, Red, Black, Silver, and Grey.