MG G50 Plus: pros and cons

Morris Garages (MG) Philippines entered the local seven-seater market when it brought in the G50 Plus multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). 

With Filipino car buyers wanting a three-row, family-friendly ride, the MG MPV model could very well be included in a lot of people’s car-buying shortlists. The market, after all, has been dominated by a select number of models for years on end. As such, a fresh new face like the G50 Plus is a very welcome addition.

The question now is, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the MG G50 Plus? Let’s find out to help folks who are looking to buy the three-row model. 

Pros

Elegant styling

Contrary to the usual humdrum looks of other MPVs and minivans in the market, the G50 Plus received an impactful exterior design. Its appearance elevates the model to be elegant on the road and even while parked. Some might even describe the ride as a fitting people carrier for executives. 

For starters, the front end of the MG model sports a large grille, which is decorated by chrome-finished slats and black inserts. Flanking the said part is a pair of intricately designed LED headlamps, which are then topped off by a sloped bonnet with subtle character lines. 

From the side, the model looks expansive, thanks to its huge doors and equally large windows. Adding to the visual appeal of the model are chrome trims for its greenhouse. It also gets some measure of black plastic claddings, but the said bits are relegated to its front lip, side skirts, and lower rear bumper. 

Also impressively humungous is the vehicle’s rear end. The said section has been kitted out with wrap-around LED taillights, a large tailgate, and an understated lower bumper. 

Completing the look of the G50 Plus MPV is a set of 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels, depending on the trim. It is also available in five relaxing or elegant color options. 

Brimming with comfort

Upon taking a peek inside the G50 Plus, one could see that the Chinese marque designed the vehicle to be roomy and comfy. 

For the front cabin, the MG model features power-adjustable seats. The second row, meanwhile, comes in the form of two captain’s chairs, which also have power adjustability. The third row is a traditional bench-type seat with split-folding functionality. To note, all seats for the mid-spec Comfort and top-spec Luxury are clad in a PVC-type leatherette material. 

When Zigwheels Philippines had the opportunity to take the G50 Plus out for a road trip, we found that all of its rows had an abundance of space. Yes, even the third row, at least when compared to many of the model’s rivals in the market right now. 

Additionally, all occupants inside the vehicle are kept cool by automatic air-conditioning with numerous vents spread around the interior of the MPV. All inside can likewise take advantage of the model’s USB ports (front and rear), as well as its several storage cubby holes and cup/bottle holders. 

Besides its comfy interior, MG also gave the G50 Plus plenty of driving amenities. It has a push-to-start button, an electronic parking brake, a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, a remote keyless entry, and a digital multi-information display. 

Decently peppy

At maximum, the turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-4 gasoline engine of the G50 Plus can generate up to 178 horsepower and 285 Newton-meters of torque. The said figures are more than enough to make the three-row unit a bit peppy.

A smooth and responsive seven-speed dual-clutch wet-type transmission does the gear shifting for the MG model. It also has sufficient braking power thanks to its all-wheel disc brake setup. Plus, it provides a plush ride, thanks to its reasonably soft McPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension. 

Cons

Could use more advanced safety bits

While the MG G50 Plus comes standard with what is expected from a modern MPV, it is lacking advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS). Sure, some drivers might say that they don’t need ADAS, but the said suite of features can be good to have, especially when dealing with the chaotic traffic situation in most Philippine cities. 

Price

• G50 Plus MT Standard: P1,048,888
• G50 Plus AT Comfort: P1,198,888
• G50 Plus AT Luxury: P1,288,888

Final thoughts

With a relatively affordable price range, the MG G50 Plus may be an attractive buy for those looking for a family chariot. As established above, it has a decent amount of power, oodles of space, and lots of creature comforts. 

Serious prospective buyers, however, should get to know the vehicle a little bit better through a test drive. Doing so, after all, may make for a more informed purchase in the end. 

Model	G50 Plus MT STD	G50 Plus Com	G50 Plus Lux
Exterior
Dimensions (mm)	4,825x1,825x1,778
Wheelbase (mm)	2,800
Wheel size	16-inches	16-inches	17-inches
Lighting system	Halogen	LED	LED
Interior
Material	Fabric		PVC leatherette
Amenities	USB ports Cupholders Luggage tray Glove box Door pockets Manual air-conditioning	USB ports Cupholders Luggage tray Glove box Door pockets Manual air-conditioning Remote keyless entry Push-to-start button Cruise control Electronic parking brake	USB ports Cupholders Luggage tray Glove box Door pockets Automatic air-conditioning Remote keyless entry Push-to-start button Cruise control Electronic parking brake Power-adjustable seats
Infotainment size	-	12.3-inch touchscreen w/ Apple Carplay and Android Auto
Seating capacity	8	8	7
Powertrain
Engine type	1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4
Fuel type	Gasoline
Transmission	6-speed manual	7-speed wet-type DCT	7-speed wet-type DCT
Power (hp)	178
Torque (Nm)	285
Brakes	Front and rear disc brakes
Technologies
Safety	Front airbags Anti-lock braking Stability control Rear parking sensor Tire pressure monitor ISOFIX	Front airbags Anti-lock braking Stability control Rear parking sensor Tire pressure monitor ISOFIX Hill-start assist Reverse camera	Front airbags Side airbags Anti-lock braking Stability control Rear parking sensor Tire pressure monitor ISOFIX Hill-start assist Reverse camera
Security	Engine immobilizer Security alarm

Also read: 

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

Triple threat: MG G50 Plus’ 3 trims

MG G50 Plus vs. the competition