Introducing the MG4 Extended Range: An EV Hatchback That Delivers on Performance and Affordability
MG is renowned for its lineup of high-value vehicles, and the release of the MG ZS EV and its Long Range variant set a new standard for affordability. This was followed by the groundbreaking MG5 EV and its Long Range version. Now, in 2022, MG has once again raised the bar with the introduction of the updated MG4 Extended Range. An upgraded version of the original model, the Extended Range takes all the great features of its predecessor and improves upon them. In order to provide you with a thorough review, I put the MG4 Extended Range through its paces over the course of the last week.
The standout feature of the MG4 Extended Range is undoubtedly its larger battery, boasting an impressive 77kWh gross capacity (74.4kWh net). By comparison, the MG4 Long Range model featured a 64kWh gross battery (61.7kWh net). In addition to the increased battery size, the Extended Range variant also boasts a more powerful motor, with 241hp compared to the Long Range model’s 201hp. Despite being 63kg heavier, the Extended Range model is actually faster, achieving a 0-60mph time of just 6.1 seconds compared to the Long Range model’s 7.5 seconds. In the past, this level of performance would have been reserved for sports cars, highlighting the impressive capabilities of the MG4 Extended Range.
While MG’s portfolio includes the lightning-quick MG4 XPOWER, which can reach 60mph in a mere 3.7 seconds, the 6.1 second acceleration time of the Extended Range model is more than satisfactory for everyday use. The MG4 Extended Range builds upon the already excellent standard and Long Range versions of the MG4.
However, the performance is not the primary focus of the MG4 Extended Range. Instead, its headline feature is the impressive WLTP range enabled by the larger battery, reaching an astounding 323 miles. During my testing, I was able to achieve approximately 280 miles in Normal mode during urban driving and around 240 miles on the motorway at 70mph. To put this into perspective, the base Tesla Model 3 only offers a WLTP range of 305 miles. While there are certainly vehicles that surpass this figure, such as the upcoming mid-market Peugeot crossover with a projected range of 435 miles in 2024, the MG4 Extended Range remains cost-effective. We’ll delve into the price in a moment, but first, let’s highlight the key features of the car itself.
The MG4 is a compact hatchback, similar in size to the Volkswagen ID.3, boasting four doors and an overall design that is well-suited for European cities. Although SUVs are popular even in urban areas, the MG4 excels as an urban-focused family hatchback, with its sleek design and versatility. The Extended Range variant is exclusively available with MG’s top Trophy trim, offering an electrically adjustable driver’s seat and heated front seats, as well as a heated steering wheel. The low central console enhances the sense of space in the front cabin, and the Trophy Trim features a wireless phone charger. The cockpit of the MG4 has been modernized compared to previous models, with a more streamlined layout and a futuristic aesthetic.
In terms of rear passenger space, the MG4 provides ample head and legroom for individuals up to six feet tall. The middle seat is narrower and less comfortable for longer journeys. Unfortunately, there are no air conditioning controls or vents in the rear, and only one USB port. Additionally, the panoramic sunroof is only available as an option in certain regions outside of the UK. Nonetheless, the rear seats of the MG4 Extended Range are comfortable enough for extended trips. The cargo space in the rear is also generous, with 363 liters of space with the seats up and 1,165 liters with the seats folded down. While these figures are slightly less than the VW ID.3, they are on par with other vehicles in the same class, such as the Renault Zoe. The MG4 Extended Range offers the added benefit of a nearly flat floor in the rear cargo area, making it easier to load certain items compared to the Zoe. Additionally, the MG4 boasts a 500kg towing capacity, sufficient for a small trailer or light boat.
Previous iterations of MG models were often criticized for their outdated technology, with analog dials dominating the instrument panel and rudimentary infotainment systems. However, with the MG4, MG has made considerable upgrades to the technology. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support are still wired rather than wireless, the instrument panel now features a 7-inch digital display, replacing the traditional analog dials. The infotainment screen is a 10.25-inch widescreen, complete with widgets, a competent satnav with live traffic updates, live weather information, and built-in Amazon Music streaming. The menu system for configuring car settings has been significantly improved and is more intuitive than previous MG models. Most of the air conditioning controls are integrated into the infotainment panel, reducing the number of physical buttons. There are two “favorite” buttons on the steering wheel that allow the right-hand steering wheel joystick to control various functions. By default, the left-hand button adjusts climate control fan speed and temperature, while the right-hand button controls regeneration. However, these functions can be customized to your preference in the menu.
When it comes to the driving experience, the MG4 Extended Range excels. Building upon the light and responsive steering of the original MG4, the Extended Range version offers even more fun thanks to its faster acceleration. It proves to be a nimble car ideal for urban environments, and it handles well on winding A-roads. With its improved performance, overtaking slower vehicles is a breeze. Auto hold is enabled by default, but an extra push of the brake pedal is required to engage it once the car has come to a complete stop. Alternatively, full one-pedal mode can be activated, allowing the car to come to a stop and engage auto hold automatically. The MG4 remains competent on motorways, with the Extended Range model far surpassing its predecessors in this area. Its impressive real-world range means that you can easily make long journeys, such as from London to Devon or Manchester, without needing to recharge. In the event that you do require a charge en route, the MG4 Extended Range is equipped with DC charging up to 144kW, allowing the battery to replenish from 10% to 80% capacity in just 39 minutes. AC charging is supported at 7kW, requiring a little over 10 hours for a full charge from empty.
The MG4 Extended Range may not boast any extraordinary features in terms of performance, range, space, or technology. However, it excels in all categories, earning its title as a well-rounded car without any glaring weaknesses. Perhaps the most appealing aspect of the MG4 Extended Range is its price. In the UK, it is priced similarly to the incredibly fast XPOWER model at £36,495 ($44,500). In other words, for the same price, you can choose between good performance and impressive range or exceptional performance and acceptable range. No other car from major manufacturers such as Stellantis, the Volkswagen Group, Ford, or even Tesla can offer such a comprehensive package at such a reasonable price. If you’re in the market for an EV that ticks all the boxes for everyday family transport, the MG4 Extended Range is an absolute bargain.
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