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2024 MG MG3 revealed: 143kW hybrid, price jumps $5000 in Australia

MG has unveiled the all-new, second-generation MG3 for 2024, bringing in a fresh design, much-improved technology and vehicle safety, and a lot more power.

Starting with the design, it goes for a smoother and sleeker profile compared with the outgoing model’s somewhat chunky and boxy shape. Perhaps not as strong or masculine, the new design is definitely more modern.

2024 MG MG3 - wheels

Compared with the outgoing model, it is 58mm longer overall, with 50mm added to the wheelbase, and it stands 68mm wider yet 2mm lower in roof height. These increases give you some idea of the added passenger and boot space inside.

Boot volume now stands at 293L, which is actually down from the current 307-litre rating. Australian specifications are yet to be officially confirmed.

As such, in the UK the new model will be offered in two main trim levels; SE and Trophy. Both feature a 7.0-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch multimedia screen, with sat-nav as standard. That’s pretty impressive for this entry segment.

2024 MG MG3 - interior

There’s also Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, air-conditioning, a six-speaker sound system, four USB ports, a rear-view camera and parking sensors. The upper-spec model adds a surround-view camera, keyless entry, leather-style trim, and heated front seats. Again, Aussie specs are not yet locked in.

As for the powertrain, this is where it gets really interesting. In the UK version at least, it’ll come with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid, with the petrol engine producing 75kW and 128Nm, and an electric motor providing 100kW and 250Nm.

Combined, the system develops an impressive 143kW. That makes it one of the most powerful vehicles in its class, and the most powerful if you exclude performance models like the Hyundai i20N and VW Polo GTI. MG says 0-100km/h is possible in a respectable 8.0 seconds. Fuel economy is rated at 64mpg, which translates to 4.4L/100km.

2024 MG MG3 - taillights

So, when is it coming to Australia? MG confirms it is arriving mid this year, but says due to the increase in standard features and technology, prices will climb by around $5000. That means it will no longer be a sub-$20,000 vehicle. Speaking about this, an MG Australia spokesperson said:

“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. 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 specification.”

The outgoing model is priced from $19,990 drive-away for the base Core, and $20,490 for the Core with sat-nav, and $20,990 for the Excite. All feature a four-speed auto and an 82kW 1.5L petrol four-cylinder engine.

Brett Davis

Brett started out as a motor mechanic but eventually became frustrated working on cars that weren't his. He then earned a degree in journalism and scored a job at Top Gear Australia back in 2008, and then worked at Zoom/Extreme Performance magazines, CarAdvice, and started PerformanceDrive/PDriveTV in 2011 with Josh Bennis, and ran it for 12 years. He's now the owner and managing editor here at Driving Enthusiast.

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