MG is preparing a small revolution with its MG4 EV model. Gone is the MG4 Electric, and in comes innovation! With larger batteries and a range approaching 545 km, this model could become a must-have for eco-conscious city dwellers. But how does this new version really stack up?
MG4 EV: A Necessary Evolution
Recently, we were introduced to the new MG4 EV Urban, which will join an improved version of the MG4 EV. A press release from MG UK clarified the differences between these two models, as well as the updates made to the MG4 EV. For now, these changes only concern the United Kingdom, but it is highly likely that they will also affect the rest of Europe very soon.
MG4 EV in France: Larger Batteries and More Versions
In our territory, the MG4 EV is currently known as the MG4 Electric. The new version, which is based on the Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), will benefit from larger capacity batteries and an expanded choice of powertrains. The MG4 range was recently limited to three variants: a 125 kW rear-wheel drive with a 49 kWh battery, and a 150 kW rear-wheel drive with two battery options, either 49 or 64 kWh. In the UK, three powertrain levels are now offered, including the all-wheel drive XPower version, boasting a power of 320 kW and a NMC battery of 61.7 kWh net.
MG4 EV Long Range Premium MG4 EV Extended Range Premium MG4 EV XPower Dual Motor
Propulsion RWD 140 kW RWD 180 kW AWD 320 kW
0-100 km/h / Vmax 7.5 s / 180 km/h 6.2 s / 180 km/h 3.8 s / 200 km/h
WLTP Consumption 17.6 kWh 16.1 kWh 19.0 kWh
Net / Gross Battery 61.7 / 64 kWh (LFP) 74.4 / 77 kWh (NMC) 61.7 / 64 kWh (NMC)
WLTP Range 452 km 545 km 405 km
Charging: Advantage to LFP Battery, Extended Range Aims for 545 km
Surprisingly, the entry-level version uses a battery with the same net and gross capacity as the XPower, but opts for an LFP chemistry, thus offering better charging performance. The theoretical charging rate is 61.7 kWh x 0.7 / 25 min = 1.7 kWh/min, while with the same-sized NMC battery, it only reaches 1.4 kWh/min. The Extended Range version stands out with its larger battery, allowing it to achieve a range of 545 km, but with a slightly less advantageous charging time of 1.3 kWh/min.
MG4 EV Long Range Premium MG4 EV Extended Range Premium MG4 EV XPower Dual Motor
Max AC/DC Charging Power 7 / 154 kW 7 / 144 kW 7 / 140 kW
DC Charging Time 10–80 % 25 min 40 min 30 min
Range Charging 12.7 km/min 9.5 km/min 9.5 km/min
Recovered Range: The Most Efficient LFP Version
When it comes to recovered range during charging, the LFP version stands out. The calculation gives 452 km x 0.7 / 25 min = 12.7 km/min, while the two NMC variants recover less than 10 km of range per minute of waiting. On alternating current, the three variants offered in the UK seem to be limited to single-phase charging at 7 kW; however, here, we could expect an onboard charger of 11 kW.
MG4 EV Long Range Premium MG4 EV Extended Range Premium MG4 EV XPower Dual Motor
Price in the UK 29,995 pounds 32,995 pounds 33,995 pounds
Conversion to euros approximately 34,500 euros approximately 38,000 euros approximately 39,000 euros
Price in the UK: Starting at Around £30,000
UK prices start at just under £30,000, which is a reduction of £2,750 compared to the previous model. When converting these amounts to euros, prices could be slightly higher in France. The base version, around €35,000, would even be cheaper than a comparable VW ID.3 Pro, listed at €36,425 in the catalog, but often found at €32,425 with manufacturer discounts.
Design: Subtle Evolutions, New Wheels, and Three Colors
The exterior design of the MG4 EV evolves only slightly. New 18-inch alloy wheels, a new rear spoiler, and three new colors: Ealing Green, Cosmic Silver, and Piccadilly Blue are noted. Inside, the cabin borrows elements from the MGS5 EV and MGS6 EV models. At the driver’s station, there is a configurable 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 12.8-inch touchscreen, with a redesigned interface for greater clarity.
Length Width Height Wheelbase Trunk
MG4 EV 4,287 mm 1,836 mm 1,516 mm 2,705 mm 388–1,164 liters “wet method”
MG4 EV Urban 4,395 mm 1,842 mm 1,549 mm 2,750 mm 577–1,364 liters with a compartment under the floor of 98 liters
Difference + 11 cm + 0.6 cm + 3 cm + 5 cm
MG4 EV Urban: Larger and More Practical, but Less Powerful
Offered alongside the MG4 EV, the MG4 EV Urban is longer and slightly taller, providing a more spacious trunk. In return, its power and ranges are lower. With a starting price of £23,495, this model positions itself as a more affordable option than the MG4 EV. MG presents it as “affordable, practical, with space and technology for all,” perfect for a second family car.
In Summary
MG is evolving its electric compact with significant changes expected in France soon. The transition to the name MG4 EV seems logical given the trends observed in the UK. By March, we will have the opportunity to try this modified version in left-hand drive. It remains to be seen if the MG4 EV Urban will also make its appearance in our market, as it could well disrupt our habits regarding electric vehicles.
