Family car feud: MG G50 Plus vs. Hyundai Stargazer X

Car buyers looking for a vehicle their family can grow into now have more options thanks to brands that bring in models suited for those who require more space and seats.

Today, we take a look at two of the more popular models considered by those who have a large family or those who like to travel with relatives. On that note, we pit the MG G50 Plus and the Hyundai Stargazer X against each other to see which of the two multi-purpose vehicles (MPV) best suits your budget, style, and motoring needs.

Tale of the tape

First on the scale is the MG G50 Plus. It measures 4,825 millimeters (mm) long, 1,825 mm wide, and 1,778 mm tall. It has a wheelbase of 2,800 mm.

On the other hand, the Hyundai Stargazer X has an overall length of 4,495 mm, an overall width of 1,815 mm, and an overall height of 1,710 mm. Its wheelbase is 2,780 mm.

At a glance, the two MPVs are virtually identical with the MG G50 Plus gaining a slight edge over the Hyundai Stargazer X in terms of size.

Exterior

The MG G50 Plus looks clean and elegant, which is one of its strong suits.

At the fore, it wears a large chrome grille that almost covers the MPV’s fascia. Noticeable are its large horizontal slats, which are not only there for decoration, but also to allow plenty of air to cool the engine. Two smaller strips of silver sit atop the said latticeworek where the MG badge is proudly displayed. To its flanks are halogen headlamps, which provide decent lighting when driving conditions become dim.

The side profile of the MPV is highlighted by large windows with blacked-out pillars and chrome finishers, door handles and side mirrors in the same finish as the vehicle’s body, and bodylines that evoke a graceful look. It rides on 16-inch wheels wrapped in 205/60 series tires.

At the back, the MG G50 Plus features a roof-mounted spoiler with an integrated brake lamp, a decent-sized glass (which improves overall visibility), combination taillamps, a hydraulically-assisted tailgate, an elegant chrome strip with integrated reflectors, and a robust, yet stylish skid plate.

Not to be outdone, the Hyundai Stargazer X ups its appeal with more striking features.

It boasts a defined fascia with a grillework that almost has a three-dimensional design. It also has a sculptured hood that gives it a more athletic look.

Its sides are adorned with components typically found on sport utility vehicles such as black wheel arches and claddings under each door. Also noticeable are its roof rails, although written on it are the words “DO NOT APPLY LOAD.” It gets a set of 17-inch sporty alloy wheels.

The rear end of the Hyundai Stargazer X features a sporty spoiler mounted on the MPV’s roof with a high-mount stop lamp. It also has a large rear glass, the “STARGAZER X” nameplate written under the window, and a defined rear bumper that echoes the design of the vehicle’s front fascia. 

Overall, both vehicles are neck and neck in this round and appear to attract car buyers from two different sides of the spectrum. The MG G50 Plus would appeal to those with refined, minimalist tastes while the Hyundai Stargazer X could attract buyers who are looking for a loud, athletic family carrier.

That said, we call this round a tie.

Interior

Inside, the MG G50 Plus continues its elegant design. The cabin is finished in black and white hues. The dark color is applied to the majority of hard plastic-clad surfaces while the lighter shade is used on areas with soft panels as well as on the seats.

Facing the driver is a multi-functional steering wheel with a flat bottom and leather upholstery. Past it is an instrument panel that mixes both analog gauges and a digital screen. To its side is a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Physical buttons are used for its air conditioning control, which is always helpful for making adjustments on the go. It also has decent compartments that will prove useful on family outings. What’s even better are the organizational pockets behind the front-row seats, which give those sitting at the back dedicated cubbies for smartphones, tablets, and handheld gaming devices.

A word of caution though for second-row occupants as the seats lie low to the ground. Per MG Philippines, the MPV has been designed in such a way to provide better luggage space when the seats are folded down.

Looking to better its rival, the Hyundai Stargazer X also comes with plenty of comfort and convenience features. The driver is provided with a leather steering wheel with multi-functional controls. Viewing relevant driving information can be done via the standard 4.2-inch digital instrument cluster, which is housed together with the eight-inch infotainment unit.

Available smartphone connectivity includes wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto.

Other notable features include aptly-cushioned chairs, a spacious enough third-row , and a useful wireless charging dock.

Because of its better displays and wireless connectivity features, we give this round to the Hyundai Stargazer X.

Engine

Powering the MG G50 Plus is a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine mated to a wet clutch automatic transmission. It can generate as much as 178 horsepower (hp) with 285 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque.

Similarly, the Hyundai Stargazer X uses a 1.5-liter gasoline engine. It is mated to an intelligent variable transmission. Per the carmaker, it makes 113 hp with 144 Nm.

With slightly better power, the winner of this round is the MG G50 Plus.

Safety

In terms of safety, the MG G50 Plus offers decent features such as seatbelts, airbags, electronic stabilization, emergency brake assist, and hill-hold control, to name a few.

Likewise, the Hyundai Stargazer X delivers notable technologies like cruise control, lane-keeping assist, forward collision-avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance assist.

Safety-wise, both MPVs are a tie.

Verdict

This bout ends in a tie with both MPVs winning the same number of rounds. That said, choosing between the two boils down to personal preference.

The MG G50 Plus is offered in three trims and is priced from P1.048 million-P1.288 million. On the other hand, the Hyundai Stargazer X is offered in a lone variant priced at P1.348 million.

Also read:

Purposefully practical: MG G50 Plus

Fancy family MPV: Hyundai Stargazer X

MPV showdown: MG G50 Plus vs GAC M6 Pro