MG TRQ L

Upon entering the MG TRQ L, you’ll be surprised by how spacious its cabin is for midsized pickup truck standards. Surprisingly, it can effectively accommodate up to five passengers better than other pickup trucks in the market. The AT variant gets leather seats, while the MT variant gets the fabric counterparts.

The TRQ L comes with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment display, which has Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, and AM/FM. Meanwhile, drivers have access to a leather-wrapped hydraulic power steering wheel with multiple controls and a premium-looking gear shifter. One downside of this truck’s dashboard, however, is the abundance of touch controls that might be a bit annoying or inconvenient for drivers who are used to operating physical switches. 

Aside from these, it also has multiple compartments courtesy of its cup, bottle, sunglass, and coin holders. Overall, its cabin might not be the flashiest and most high-tech in its segment, but it is functional enough to ensure that everyone on board is comfortable and entertained.

The MG TRQ L features a modern rugged exterior appearance that has that dominant vibe despite being a novice in its class. It has an assertive-looking facade, which is enhanced by a large gloss black grille. A big MG emblem serves as the grille’s centerpiece, proudly shouting its identity wherever it goes. The higher trim AT variant gets halogen projector headlights, whereas the lower trim MT variant gets the regular halogen counterparts. 

Its side view is defined by sleek character lines as well as muscular-looking fender flares for the AT variant. The AT variant also gets side step boards for easier ingress and egress. Both variants get black power-adjustable side mirrors with integrated side turn signals. Meanwhile, at the back, both variants feature rear fog lamps, high mount brake lights, gloss black tailgate handles, and black rear bumpers for a hint of sportiness. The AT variant also comes with a sports roll bar for a more expensive outdoorsy look. The AT variant is given an LED park light, whereas the MT variant gets the halogen version.

In terms of dimensions, both variants are 5,365 mm in length, 3,155 mm in wheelbase, and have a 215 mm ground clearance. The AT variant is 1,960 mm in width and 1,857 mm in height, while the MT variant is 1,900 mm in width and 1,825 mm in height. Both variants run on chunky 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels. Both are given painted bedliners that offer a 1,055 kg payload capacity for your cargo and baggage.

The MG TRQ L line utilizes a suspension combination of a Double Wishbone at the front and a Leaf Spring at the rear. This suspension setup doesn’t deliver the most comfortable riding experience out there. But, you’ll be confident enough to hit sharp turns and corners even at high speeds. It also has decent absorption of bumps, potholes, and other road imperfections as well as good stability and road grip courtesy of its all-terrain tires. However, its steering has a frequent tendency to be too stiff when passing through bumper-to-bumper traffic at low speeds. Ultimately, it can still deliver a relatively comfortable and stable ride for everyone on board.

The MG TRQ L line is powered by a 2.0L Turbo diesel engine that produces a maximum power output of 161 PS and a maximum torque of 400 Nm. The higher trim is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission system, while the lower trim runs on 6-speed manual transmission. Both variants utilize a rear-wheel drivetrain.  

That said, its power delivery is abrupt and you’ll definitely enjoy its torque output. You will have no problem driving this at high speeds in the city and on the highway. It also delivers good fuel efficiency, making it a feasible daily driver in the city. However, its NVH suppression system could still be improved moving forward as engine and other external noises can easily enter the cabin.

One of the main weak points of the MG TRQ L is its lack of ADAS, which most of its rivals already have. In terms of safety, it is equipped with cruise control, dual front airbags, seatbelts, reverse camera with guidelines, parking sensors, ISOFIX, keyless entry system, and a one push start system for the AT variant. 

In terms of braking, both variants utilize discs for front and rear braking. This pickup truck’s braking setup is protected by an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, electronic stability program, emergency brake assist, and hill descent control for the AT variant.

The MG TRQ L has a higher potential to be more competitive within its class if the brand addresses its current weak points moving forward. But, for a midsized pickup truck, it is definitely worth considering if you prioritize space, comfort, and practicality among other things.