MG 4 EV: pros and cons

The MG 4 electric vehicle (EV) is currently one of the most affordable fully electric models in the Philippine market. At its most affordable, the MG EV unit starts at a reasonable P1,468,888. Regardless, its entry-level Standard (STD) trim already boasts several qualities many prospective EV adopters would want.

So what are MG 4 EV’s pros and cons? Let’s find the answer to the said question to guide folks who are interested in getting behind the wheel of the electric-powered hatchback.

Pros

Excellent range

At the most, the MG 4 EV can provide a driving range of 435 kilometers (km) on a single full charge. The said range is available on the mid-spec Luxury trim. The STD, meanwhile, has 350, and the XPower offers up to 385 km.

Even with the STD’s range, it can already cover a round trip from Quezon City to Clark, Pampanga. Translated to daily driving within a city, the 4 EV can likewise go for multiple days without ever needing to charge. 

In Zigwheels Philippines’ own testing, the MG 4 EV returned six to seven kilometers per kilowatt-hour in heavy traffic. The said reading was taken on a busy day on Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City. 

If its range wasn’t enough, the MG model also boasts a charge rate of 10-80 percent in just 26 minutes.

Hot hatch performance

Each of the MG 4 EV trims has differently tuned electric motors. The STD can produce up to 167 horsepower (hp) and 250 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque, while the Lux has a maximum output of 200 hp and 250 Nm of torque. The most powerful of the three is the XPower, which can churn out a healthy 429 hp and 600 Nm of torque. 

As expected, the vehicle’s electric motor reliably displays instantaneous peak torque. Even on the humble STD, the accelerator is responsive and will happily climb to highway speeds in no time. 

Mind you, it is a relatively heavy vehicle with a gross weight ranging from 2,103-2,113 kilograms. Regardless, the MG 4 EV is an agile hatchback that can take turns at speed without any signs of dramatic body rolls. It also doesn’t exhibit squatting when accelerating hard from a standstill. 

For the STD and Lux, the model uses a rear-wheel-drive layout, which vastly increases driving engagement. The top-spec XPower trim, meanwhile, uses an all-wheel-drive system for extra traction and grip. 

Eye-catching exterior

Coupled with the MG 4 EV’s agile handling is its interesting exterior design. 

Contrary to the sleek and elegant curves of other EVs in the market right now, the brand has opted to give the said model a sharp look, with details reaching concept car levels of complexity. 

Its nose, for example, is tapered to a point. From the front, the profile of the vehicle follows a diagonal line leading up to its huge duck-tail spoiler. 

The aforementioned spoiler is one of the more attention-grabbing parts of the vehicle. MG has dubbed it “Kammback,” and it is actually a functional aerodynamic piece that is said to improve the EV unit’s range. 

Below the exaggerated spoiler is a curvy tailgate and a beefy-looking rear diffuser filled with fins and other functional aero bits. 

Affordability

One of the MG 4 EV's biggest strengths is its affordable starting price. As such, it may suit the role of being an accessible ambassador of all-electric performance in the market right now. 

For reference, the STD, as mentioned above, is offered for P1,468,888. The Lux retails for P1,738,888, while the top-spec XPower is priced at P2,000,888. 

Sure, the similarly priced Nissan Kicks e-Power (P1.179 million to P1.479 million) and the cheaper Jetour Ice Cream (P699,000) are available in the local market, but both simply lack the MG 4 EV's athleticism. 

Cons

No rearview camera

For some reason, the MG 4 STD lacks a review parking camera despite being equipped with a crisp 10.25-inch infotainment screen. The model does come with rear parking sensors, but having extra eyes is crucial when navigating tight parking spots. 

Final thoughts

In general, the MG 4 STD is a well-rounded vehicle. It combines an attractive exterior style and impressive performance, all in an affordable package. 

For those serious about taking the said model home, however, do give the vehicle a thorough test drive first. The list of pros and cons can only do so much in terms of providing information about a car, and actual seat time may be better in creating an informed car purchase in the end. 

Also read: 

Good all-rounder: MG 4 STD

Cabin check: What’s inside the MG 4 EV?