Review: 2024 MG MG3 Essence

MG has launched the highly anticipated new generation MG3 with some sizable changes that reflect a big step up for the charming, compact hatchback.

The biggest change the model has received is its exciting new hybrid powertrain option that's sure to make waves across its segment. The range of choice has been expanded now with two trim levels available in either petrol or hybrid.

The new advancements mean that the new-gen MG3 no longer holds the venerable title of Australia's most affordable new car. However, we think the new price reflects these upgrades accurately, retaining the brand's ethos of exceptional value while pushing the MG3 upward.

We recently spent the weekend experiencing the top-of-the-range Essence trim of the petrol version to see how it compares to its predecessor and the rest of the market.

Initial Impressions

The MG3's new look is sharp and stylish punctuated by sleek headlights and taillights. The wide grille and faux air vents give the impression of a big smile and a strong jawline.

Stepping inside, the Essence model greets you with tasteful diamond-patterned leatherette seats and a leather steering wheel. The dashboard has received a highly modernised design upgrade exemplified by the new digital instrument cluster borrowed from MG's standout EV and Carsales' 2023 Car of the Year - the MG4.

Driving Experience

The petrol model comes with a new 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder engine that puts out handy power and torque figures of 81kW and 142Nm respectively.

This is plenty to zip you around without feeling sluggish and, if you opt for the Hybrid+ drivetrain, you'll be dashing through traffic with even more spirit.

There's no question that the fuel consumption figures are where the hybrid models earn their stripes with a satisfying combined figure of just 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The petrol model is no slouch however with a respectable 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres - a solid improvement over its predecessor. The new generation has also done away with the four-speed automatic transmission for a new CVT that provides a smoother, more consistent ride.

In the driver's seat, the steering wheel is nice and big giving you optimal control over the car. We had no issues with the suspension and found it provided sufficient dampening of bumps despite being a lighter car.

Driving Convenience

The MG3 isn't just a simple servant anymore - the new generation has been bestowed with a suite of delightful features to make your drive that much more convenient, especially in the Essence trim. Across the range, things we loved included the push button start, automatic headlights with Intelligent Headlight Control, plus the combination of Intelligent Cruise Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist and Lane Change Assist.

A few of the extra goodies in the Essence trim included the rain-sensing wipers, reversing camera and 360-degree camera. We were really impressed with the crisp resolution of the rear camera which makes reverse parking a breeze with its dynamic guidelines and rear parking sensors. It was also great to see a good quality 360-degree camera that wasn't significantly distorted like some others we've seen in the market.

Safety First

A major improvement for the new MG3 over the outgoing model is in safety from top to tail. All safety features come standard across the range regardless of trim and the list is certainly an exhaustive one. Major tech that helps you stay on the road include the Electronic Stability Program, Traction Control System, Vehicle Dynamic Control, Electric Brake-force Distribution, Corner Brake Control and Unsteady Driver Warning.

We're also glad to see the likes of Autonomous Emergency Braking, Emergency Lane Keep Assist, blindspot monitoring, and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Living

The MG3 has had a bit of a growth spurt with about 10cm of length added, and almost 7cm of width. This is extremely evident in the cabin with the feeling of loads of space in both front and rear rows as well as a generous 293 litres of boot space. Across the compact hatch segment, this capacity puts the MG3 at the very top, beating out competitors from the biggest automakers except for VW's Polo which is vastly more expensive. The MG3's boot space increases to 983 litres with the rear seats folded down, however, it's interesting to note that the second row folds as a single piece rather than the more common 60-40 split fold.

Speaking of interior space, we love that MG has added a sunroof to the new MG3 Essence. It does a great job expanding the cabin space by bringing the sunlight and rest of the outside world in.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both available however we would have loved to have seen it in wireless form. If you're like me and constantly forget to bring your phone cord, the MG3 has Bluetooth so you don't have to go without your own beats. What's even better, the Essence trim gets in-built satellite navigation so you may end up not even bothering with the smartphone connectivity.

We must also mention the smart solutions MG has thoughtfully added to the centre console and cupholders. With a few simple, adjustable dividers, you can modify the layout of the centre storage compartment or cupholders to secure your personal items more effectively. If you ever have a cup, can or bottle that's either too big or too small for your cupholder, move the centre divider to one of the other slots available to increase or decrease the size of the holder. This worked wonders for our oversized insulated tumbler that struggles to fit in most cupholders.

Pricing

It's no surprise that with the range of new additions and overall improvements of the MG3, pricing across the range has also increased. That being said, the MG3 is still one of the most affordable new cars on the market. The range starts with the petrol-powered Excite from just $24,990 driveaway. You also have the choice of Pastel Yellow, Dover White, or Brighton Blue Metallic at this price, while the four extra colour choices are an additional $500.

We think the jump to the Essence is absolutely worth your while with the great range of features available for just $2,000 more on top of the Excite.

If you're keen to transition to a hybrid model, the premium over the petrol model is about $5,000 which could seem too big of a hurdle for some.

Summary

As a whole, the all-new MG3 presents as the total package. We can recognise it is a significant leap from the previous generation and could almost be seen as a different model, however, it is a vastly better car and one that packs just as much value for its price.

The MG brand is on the up and up, and the new MG3 reflects this movement. MG sees its hatchback as a leading choice for many customers and not just because it's cheap. The broader range now gives consumers options, each of which comes value-packed with great features and loads of convenience.

If you're looking to experience the new MG3 via a test drive, or are keen to get yourself into one, get in touch with the team at Motorama MG today.