The arrival of the 2024 MG 3 in Australian markets draws closer, offering a range of petrol and hybrid options to consumers. While the petrol variant doesn’t boast increased power, it does introduce a new transmission, with a more robust hybrid variant available as an option.
Recently unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show, the petrol version comes in base and Lux grades, with both petrol and hybrid powertrains on offer. Retaining its naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, the new MG 3 swaps out the outdated four-speed automatic for a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
This iteration delivers 81kW of power at 6000rpm, slightly less than the outgoing model’s 82kW. As previously outlined, the hybrid variant of the MG 3 combines a 1.5-litre Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder petrol engine, generating 75kW and 128Nm of torque, with a 100kW/250Nm electric motor.
While MG in Europe claims a total system output of 143kW, government approval documents suggest a figure of 155kW. Equipped with a three-speed automatic transmission and a 1.83kWh battery, the MG 3 hybrid boasts impressive efficiency figures.
MG asserts a fuel economy of 4.4L/100km on the WLTP cycle, CO2 emissions of 100 grams per kilometer, and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 8.0 seconds. In terms of weight, comparing base models of the outgoing and upcoming MG 3 ranges, there’s a modest increase of only 15kg to 1185kg. The top-spec hybrid variant weighs 1300kg.
All models are fitted with four-wheel disc brakes and ride on 16-inch wheels. The new MG 3 dimensions measure 4113mm in length, 1797mm in width, and 1502mm in height, riding on a 2570mm wheelbase.
That translates to a 108mm increase in length, a 68mm wider stance, and a marginal 2mm decrease in height compared to the outgoing model, all built on a 50mm longer wheelbase. However, prospective buyers should anticipate a higher price tag.
“MG can confirm that, due to advancements in technology, safety, and specification, the new MG3 revealed at the Geneva Motor Show will mean the popular model will no longer be a sub-$20,000 car when it launches in Australia this year,” stated an MG Motor Australia spokesperson.
“There will be a price increase of around $5000 associated with the new model, thanks to the introduction of new world-class technology, safety updates, and all-new specifications. The current MG3 is at the end of its lifecycle, which means that now is the best time to buy a brand new car for the price of a used one before the new model hits our shores.”
While detailed pricing and specifications for Australia are yet to be unveiled, insights from the European market provide some clues. The interior boasts a 7.0-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features include satellite navigation, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.
Beneath the touchscreen, a row of piano-key switches manages functions such as climate control and audio volume. All MG 3 models come equipped with standard features such as air-conditioning, four USB ports, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera.
Stepping up to higher-spec models adds leatherette upholstery, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, keyless entry, and a surround-view camera. In terms of safety, the MG 3 has undergone a significant upgrade, now featuring autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic jam assist.
MG emphasizes that the new hatch incorporates “ultra-high stiffness components” in its chassis and lighter-weight suspension components, aimed at delivering both athletic handling and a comfortable ride. Furthermore, the company has focused on reducing noise, vibration, and harshness to provide a more premium driving experience.
With the price increase expected for the new MG 3, the Kia Picanto is poised to reclaim the title of Australia’s cheapest car. Previously priced at $18,890 drive-away, the Picanto underwent a significant update in 2024, which elevated its price to $20,690 drive-away, reflecting the inclusion of enhanced standard safety features.
However, it remains to be seen how this higher price point will impact MG 3 sales, given its stronghold as the best-selling vehicle in its price-sensitive segment.
In 2023, MG achieved impressive sales figures, with 15,430 MG 3s sold, commanding a substantial 43.3 percent share of its segment, surpassing competitors like the Suzuki Swift, which secured 6914 sales, equating to a 19.4 percent share.
