SAIC Motor Philippines, Inc. (SMPI), the Philippine subsidiary of MG’s parent company, SAIC Motor, has finally brought in the 2024 MG 4 electric vehicle after teasing it at the brand’s launch a couple of months ago. As the flagbearer of MG’s global EV push, the MG 4 is an affordable hatchback with specs and range that put it at the top of its class.
As a reminder, the MG 4 has been a major success in Europe. In fact, it even became the UK Car of the Year and Top Gear’s Bargain of the Year 2023, thanks to this hatch undercutting the Volkswagen ID.3 but offering specifications that match or even exceed its major German rival. The competitive specs of the MG 4 begin with its new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), which is a skateboard architecture that was solely designed for EVs. Thus, the packaging benefits of developing a bespoke EV platform are significant when compared to utilizing a platform that takes into account an internal combustion engine (ICE).
The MSL platform enables the MG 4 to have one of the thinnest batteries in an EV. Measuring 110 mm, it’s even thinner than a soda can. This enables the MG 4 to have excellent interior packaging even if it’s about as long as a Honda Jazz. This packaging advantage also lowers the center of gravity as well as provides the MG 4 with a perfect 50/59 weight distribution.
Riding on top of the platform is a stylish hatchback that was a result of SAIC Design’s team that’s based in both Shanghai and London. Some of its design highlights include an ultra-sleek roofline, slim LED headlights with a distinct grille-less face, as well as balanced proportions that give this hatchback a dynamic stance. Whichever variant you choose, 17-inch wheels are fitted as standard, while the full-width LED taillights that jut out of the tailgate give it a distinct appearance at night.
As mentioned, the packaging advantage of using a bespoke EV platform is immediately noticed inside. There’s plenty of room for all occupants, while the floating center console and minimalist dash layout emphasize the feeling of space. As standard, all variants come with a 7-inch digital instrument cluster while the main infotainment screen measures 10.25 inches. As expected, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are fitted as standard.
A suite of advanced driver-assistance systems is also equipped as standard on the two variants, namely Front Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Lane Departure Warning, and Lane Keeping Assist. Meanwhile, a 360-degree camera system is exclusive to the Lux variant.
As for its drivetrain, both models utilize a rear-mounted electric motor that provides 170 horsepower and 250 Nm in the STD and 203 horses for the Lux. Where the two variants also differ is in their batteries, with the STD getting a 51 kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery that’s good enough for 350 kilometers, while the range-topping Lux gets a 64 kWh nickel cobalt manganese (NCM) battery that’s good for 435 kilometers of range.
All 2024 MG 4 hatchbacks come with a 5-year warranty, lower maintenance costs as a nature of EVs, and an 8-year battery warranty. The STD sells for P1,468,888, while the Lux goes for P1,748,888.
0 comments on “2024 MG 4 EV Now In PH: Up To 435 KM Range, From P1.468M”