MG4 EV: A Year On – What's the Verdict?

MG Offers,Electric,New Cars,MG News,MG Retail

21 September 2023

Electric vehicles (EVs) are taking centre-stage in the automotive industry, as a sustainable and innovative solution for cleaner transport. The MG4 EV made its debut a year ago, promising drivers an eco-friendly driving experience without compromising on style or performance. As we mark the one-year anniversary of its launch, it is time to assess whether the MG4 has lived up to its promises. In this blog, we will examine every element of the MG4 EV from driving experience to the latest releases available at SERE Motors MG Belfast. 

The MG4 EV

The MG4 burst onto the scene in 2022 with a range of enticing specifications, from a decent range to performance metrics that hinted at a promising ride. Positioned in the electric market as a formidable competitor, MG’s first all-electric hatchback was aimed at captivating drivers seeking not only sustainability but performance and reliability. The newest MG4 release, Trophy Extended Range, marked a milestone for MG as its first electric car capable of over 300 miles on a single charge. The Extended Range is equipped with a new 77kWh battery and boasts a range of 323 miles*. 

As part of the broader global shift towards sustainable transportation, Northern Ireland has been making significant strides in developing a robust and accessible EV charging network. This infrastructure includes several types of charging stations, such as fast chargers and standard outlets, strategically located across the country to support the growing adoption of electric vehicles. It plays a crucial role in facilitating EV ownership to NI citizens, ensuring that drivers have convenient access to charging options. 

Trims

mg4 ev se in holburn blue
SE (from £26,995)
  • MG Pilot 
  • 10.25” Colour Touchscreen 
  • ISMART User App 
  • 7” Digital Driver Info Display 
  • Apple CarPlay 
  • Android Auto 
mg4 ev trophy in volcano orange
Trophy (from £32,495)
  • 360 Parking Camera 
  • iSMART Live Services 
  • Wireless Charger 
  • Satellite Navigation 
  • Heated Front Seats & Steering Wheel 
mg4 ev xpower in racing green
XPOWER (from £36,495)
  • Launch Control 
  • Track Mode Display 
  • Black Alcantara Upholstery 
  • 18” Cyclone Alloy Wheels with Orange Calipers 

BUILD YOUR MG4 EV

Are you ready to find your dream MG4 EV? Our new car configurator is here to revolutionise your car buying experience. Choose your preferred trim, engine, and paint options and the configurator will provide you with accurate pricing. But that's not all! It will also provide you with the full specification from standard equipment to technical information.

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Interior & Comfort

The interior of the MG4 uses modern styling with quality materials for a premium feel for passengers. Infotainment systems and connectivity options including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available as standard, providing drivers with the latest technology. While the MG Pilot driver-assistance systems add an extra layer of safety and convenience for the driver. This has allowed the MG4 to be presented with a 5-Star Euro NCAP Safety Rating, the highest safety rating available.  

Available in six distinctive colours including the new Volcano Orange, and the exclusive XPOWER Racing Green. The Trophy trim introduces a two-tone black roof and Twin Aero Rear Spoiler to the MG4 as standard.  

The MG iSMART app allows the driver to control many features of the vehicle remotely, from charging and checking your vehicle status, to locating your nearest charging point and pre-starting the climate control system. 

Practicality & Space

The MG4 EV positions itself as a practical choice for various lifestyles. Its adaptability shines through in its cargo space and passenger seating, making it suitable for everyday commuting and family adventures. Whilst the practicality of electric travel with the MG4’s regenerative braking system extends to its ability to navigate congested urban landscapes, to provide a nimble and efficient mode of transport. 

luggage in the boot space of an mg4 ev with man getting blue suitcase out and woman walking towards the car

Driving Experience

The seamless acceleration characteristic of electric vehicles means that the MG4 EV provides a lively driving experience that makes city commutes more enjoyable. The regenerative braking system not only enhances the efficiency of EVs but also offers drivers a unique experience. The MG Pilot advanced driver assistance systems are available as standard in the MG4 EV for increased safety to ensure the driver and their passengers have a safe, relaxing, and comfortable ride. The availability of adjustable driving modes further tailors the experience to the driver’s preferences, whether they are seeking an energy-conserving drive or a spirited journey.  

Range & Charging

The real-world range of the MG4 EV can vary depending on a range of factors, including driving conditions, usage patterns, the weather, and driving habits. Newer models and advancements in battery technology can lead to improved range figures, as noted by the newest trim level of the MG4 EV, Trophy Extended Range which has a range of 323 miles on a single charge.  

In conditions with a lot of stop-and-go traffic, you can expect an EV to achieve close to its maximum estimated range. Whereas driving at higher speeds, for instance on the motorway, will significantly reduce the estimated range due to the increased aerodynamic drag. Driving in hilly terrain can decrease the range as well as it requires more energy, although it can regenerate energy whilst going downhill.  

Extreme hot and freezing weather can also negatively impact an EV’s range as extra energy is required in wintry weather to heat the cabin, or hot temperatures can cause the battery to heat up, reducing its capacity temporarily. However, the impact on range in hot weather is usually less severe than in wintry weather.  

Aggressive driving with rapid acceleration and travelling at high speeds can reduce an EV’s range. To help maximise range, drivers should maintain smooth and moderate driving habits.  

How you charge your electric vehicle can also affect its range. Regularly charging to 100% and letting the battery drain to extremely low levels can accelerate battery degradation over a period. It is generally recommended by manufacturers to charge to around 80-90% for daily use to prolong battery life. It should be noted that over time all batteries degrade which decreases an EV’s range gradually. To manage this, modern lithium-ion batteries are designed to have a slower rate of degradation and many manufacturers offer warranties to cover significant capacity loss.  

mg4 ev se in holburn blue
SE

218 miles range*

mg4 ev se long range in arctic white
SE Long Range

281 miles range*

mg4 ev trophy long range in dynamic red
Trophy Long Range

270 miles range*

mg4 ev trophy extended range in volcano orange
Trophy Extended Range

323 miles range*

mg4 ev xpower in racing green
XPOWER

239 miles range*

Maintenance & Ownership Costs

One of the standout advantages of EVs is the potential for reduced maintenance costs as there are fewer moving parts and less frequent maintenance needs. The MG4 EV is also accompanied by a 7-Year Warranty, so you can have peace of mind that you are covered for every journey. Additionally, potential government incentives aimed at promoting electric mobility can further sweeten the ownership deal.  

Infrastructure

As the EV market evolves, the nations’ charging infrastructure remains a key consideration for potential buyers. MG’s commitment to EVs is noteworthy and the brand is dedicated to addressing their customers' needs by ensuring that they can charge from the comfort of their own home. All MG electric vehicles come with a 13A home charger with a domestic plug. The MG4 EV has made strides in terms of its charging, offering support for fast-charging options alongside the convenience of home charging. The MG4 EV can charge from 10-80% in as little as 35 minutes^ so travelling long distances has never been easier. 

Environmental Impact

The MG4 EV is not just a means of transportation, it is a step towards reducing carbon emissions and fostering cleaner air quality. As electric vehicles gain traction, their role in minimising the automotive industry's environmental footprint becomes increasingly evident. The MG4 EV stands as a symbol of progress towards a more sustainable future. 

User Feedback

No evaluation would be complete without hearing from the car experts. We have gathered insights from four reputable sources in the UK to give you a comprehensive review of the MG4 EV. With expert reviews at your fingertips, you can gain a well-rounded understanding of this electric hatchback, whether you are looking for performance insights, practicality assessments, or just an overall evaluation of this exciting EV.

“The MG4 brings range, equipment, zippy dynamics, and style to the small electric car party. Why spend more on something else?”

Think everything is getting too expensive? Well, you might like the MG4 EV then. The latest model from the now Chinese-owned brand is one of the cheapest electric cars you can buy. It’s cheaper even than the other electric offerings from MG – the MG5 and the MG ZS EV – both of which are famously value-focused in their own right. 

Surely, then, the bargain-basement pricing (in electric car terms, at least) must mean the MG4 has a tiny range between charges, a cramped interior and not much equipment on offer? Actually, no. Even the cheapest MG4 can officially take you 218 miles on a charge, while the Extended Range model can do 323 miles thanks to its relatively big 77kWh battery. Or if you're more interested in performance than range, the MG4 XPower has a colossal 429bhp and can do 0-60mph in well under four seconds.  

All versions have a roomy interior, and the equipment list includes adaptive cruise control and vehicle-to-load charging, which lets you use your car to power items that run off a three-pin plug socket. In other words, the MG4 is an electric car that appears to have much more going for it than just a low list price. 

The MG 4 EV may not move any technological boundaries, but other manufacturers should undoubtedly see this car as a serious threat, because it does so many things so well, and for such a keen price that it is hard to argue you should buy any other electric hatchback. 

It is up there with the Cupra Born for chassis sophistication, delivering both a comfortable ride and an enjoyable rear-drive balance. It makes excellent use of its footprint to offer generous interior space and mostly comfortable accommodation. Range, efficiency, and charge speeds are all competitive if not groundbreaking. 

As long as you’re not after a premium-feeling product, most of the criticism one can level at the MG 4 is a collection of niggles rather than any substantial failings. The biggest issue is that the adaptive cruise control is very poor. There are also some quality issues in the interior that go beyond those excusable by the low price, though the handful of usability quirks and refinement lapses fade into the background after a few days. The MG 4 is simply a well-rounded electric hatchback at a price that appears impossible to beat. 

“When you dig into what the MG4 does for the money, it's probably the only car in the class to recommend” 

On the face of it, the MG4 doesn’t seem like a very exciting car - certainly not something Top Gear would give a massively high score to. But when you dig into what it does for the money, how high it scores on multiple levels, it’s probably the only car in the class to recommend. It’s got range, charging, equipment, zippy dynamics and now some style. 

Okay, so that last bit is entirely subjective, but in a world where electric cars always feel like marginal value, the MG4 does not. It’s a wake-up call to mainstream manufacturers. And yes, as other cars come to market and improve, the MG4 will become a harder sell. But for the next 18 months, MG is going to shift as many of these things as it can physically get into the country. If competition improves the breed, you’re looking at the catalyst for better value EVs for all of us. 

The last few years have seen MG become a maker of perfectly sensible, well-priced but rather dull electric cars. However, the MG MG4 is the first of a new generation of electric models that offer a decent range for an unbelievably good price. 

Sure, the MG5 estate and ZS EV SUV possess good ranges for not much money, but they both feel rather off the pace when it comes to the driving experience and interior. However, the MG4 is an all-new electric hatchback that has its sights set on the Cupra Born, Renault Megane and Volkswagen ID.3, all big hitters in their segment. 

The MG4’s ingredients certainly appeal. There’s the choice of a standard or long-range version both with enough power to give a sub-8.0-second 0-62mph time, a rear-mounted electric motor powering the rear wheels just like a Born or ID.3 and an impressive selection of standard equipment, even if you don’t opt for the top of the range Trophy model. 

So far so good, but the MG4’s biggest draw is once again its price. Standard range models are priced below even a Vauxhall Corsa Electric or Renault Zoe, while even long-range Trophy models undercut similarly sized rivals such as the Born by thousands. Expect to pay a three-figure sum per month less on a PCP, too, making the MG4 a viable alternative to many petrol and diesel cars, too. 

The Award-Winning MG4

The all-electric MG4 hatchback has received awards from some of the UK’s leading motoring experts over the last year, including three overall Car of the Year titles. Recognised by industry experts for its generous equipment levels, practicality, and dynamic handling. The MG4 is also noted for being the best-value EV on the market, putting zero emissions motoring within the reach of more people. 

  • Carwow Car of the Year 
  • Driving Electric Best Value Electric Car 
  • Driving Electric Car of the Year 
  • Driving Electric Reader’s Favourite Electric Car 
  • Electrifying.com Best Small Family Car 
  • Electrifying.com Best Value Car 
  • Electrifying.com Car of the Year 
  • Scottish Car of the Year Awards Best EV Under £40,000 
  • Top Gear Bargain of the Year 
  • AM Awards EV of the Year 
  • Autocar Best Electric Car 
  • AutoExpress Affordable Electric Car of the Year 
  • Fleet News EV Breakthrough of the Year 
  • The Business Motoring Awards Best Small EV 
  • UK Car of the Year Best Family Car 
  • UK Car of the Year Car of the Year 
  • What Car? Best Small Electric Car 
  • Which EV Best Value EV and Car of the Year 

MG4 EV XPOWER

mg4 ev xpower in racing green on the road with mountains in the background

The newest release of the MG4 brought the XPOWER trim, the first in the next generation of high-performance hatchbacks. The MG4 EV XPOWER holds a 64kWh battery which produces a maximum power of 435PS allowing it to deliver 0 – 62 mph in just 3.8 seconds. Track mode display on the floating 10.25” floating touchscreen gives the driver data analysing vehicle performance, power distribution, speed/time, G-Force, steering angle, and throttle. With the new 18” Cyclone Wheels, larger front and rear brake discs, and new sports calipers, the XPOWER can decelerate from 62 – 0 mph in 33.9 metres. With a starting price of just £36,495, the MG4 EV XPOWER offers drivers a high-performance hot hatch without breaking the bank. 

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, MG’s trajectory holds promise for the future of the EV market. Ongoing developments, updates, and feature enhancements are expected throughout the brand as MG continues to refine its offerings. As the automotive industry sees a shift towards electric mobility, the MG4 EV is poised to play a significant role in shaping the brand’s identity and market presence as a reliable EV brand.  

View our Range of Used MG4 EV

Within the span of a year, the MG4 EV has proven itself to be a strong contender in the electric vehicle market, with numerous awards over the last 12 months. From an engaging driving experience to practicality in daily use, this EV has highlighted its capabilities to consumers nationwide. Whilst challenges in the charging infrastructure in Northern Ireland persist, they are part of the broader journey towards EV adoption. As we reflect on the MG4 EV’s first year, it is clear that this electric marvel is not only transforming transportation, but it is also contributing to a greener future by making electric mobility more attractive.

*Range applies to a single charge on the WLTP combined cycle. ^Applies to MG4 EV SE/Trophy Long Range with the 64kWh battery using a 150kW charger under standardised test conditions.  

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