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MG4 EV-compact electric hatchback (2020) — UK review

MG4 EV-compact electric hatchback (2020) Review (2020–)

MG UK review Since 2020 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

2025 MG4 EV – Compact Electric Hatchback (launched 2022)

1. Vehicle Overview

The MG4 EV, launched in 2022, represents a major step forward for the MG brand — a purpose-built electric hatchback designed on the MSP (Modular Scalable Platform). It’s MG’s first rear-wheel-drive EV and a genuine rival to the Volkswagen ID.3, Renault Mégane E-Tech, and Cupra Born.

By 2025, the MG4 lineup includes a range of models — from the MG4 SE Long Range to the MG4 XPOWER, a dual-motor performance version with hot hatch acceleration. Combining eye-catching design, strong range, and excellent value, the MG4 has quickly become one of Europe’s best-selling compact EVs.

2. Key Specifications

SpecificationDetail
PlatformMSP (Modular Scalable Platform)
Powertrain OptionsSingle-motor RWD / Dual-motor AWD (XPOWER)
Battery Options51 kWh (Standard), 64 kWh (Long Range), 77 kWh (Extended Range)
Power / Torque170 hp / 250 Nm (Standard) • 203 hp / 250 Nm (Long Range) • 245 hp / 350 Nm (Extended Range) • 435 hp / 600 Nm (XPOWER)
TransmissionSingle-speed automatic
DrivetrainRear-wheel drive (AWD on XPOWER)
0–100 km/h7.7 s (Long Range) / 3.8 s (XPOWER)
Top Speed160–200 km/h
Range (WLTP)350–520 km (model dependent)
Charging (DC Fast)Up to 144 kW (10–80% in ~35 min)
Charging (AC)11 kW onboard charger
Dimensions (L x W x H)4,287 x 1,836 x 1,504 mm
Boot Capacity363 L (up to 1,177 L with seats folded)

3. Exterior Design

The MG4 EV showcases MG’s bold new design language — sharp, futuristic, and athletic. Its aerodynamic shape (Cd 0.26) is as functional as it is stylish.

Key design elements

Slim LED headlights and full-width LED taillight bar

Angular, layered bodywork for visual dynamism

Floating roof design and contrasting black rear spoiler

Flush door handles and aero alloy wheels

Eye-catching color palette (Volcano Orange, Camden Grey, Holborn Blue)

The XPOWER variant adds gloss black accents, two-tone roof, and 19-inch wheels, giving it a more aggressive, performance-inspired look.

4. Interior, Comfort & Materials

Inside, the MG4 is minimalist, functional, and tech-forward — prioritizing space and simplicity.

Highlights include

10.25-inch floating touchscreen with iSMART connectivity

7-inch digital driver display

Two-spoke steering wheel with haptic buttons

Floating centre console with storage beneath

Comfortable, supportive seats (cloth or leather-style upholstery)

Ambient lighting and multiple USB ports

The interior feels airy and uncluttered, aided by clever packaging from the flat-floor EV platform. Build quality is solid, and visibility is excellent for urban driving.

5. Features & Infotainment

The MG iSMART infotainment system offers strong connectivity and intuitive functionality:

10.25-inch touchscreen interface

Wireless Apple CarPlay / Android Auto

Online navigation with live traffic data

MG iSMART app (remote pre-conditioning, charging, and location tracking)

Voice control

OTA (Over-the-Air) software updates

Optional 360° camera and wireless phone charging (Trophy & XPOWER trims)

The interface is quick and responsive, although the physical buttons are minimal — something traditionalists might miss.

6. Safety & Ratings

The MG4 EV earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (2023), cementing its place among the safest EVs in its class.

Safety features (MG Pilot suite) include

Active Emergency Braking (AEB)

Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning

Adaptive Cruise Control

Traffic Jam Assist

Blind Spot Detection

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert

Intelligent Speed Limit Assist

The strong structure, low centre of gravity, and rear-wheel-drive layout contribute to excellent stability and control.

7. Driving Performance

The MG4 is genuinely fun to drive — a rarity in the affordable EV class. Its rear-wheel-drive setup, 50:50 weight distribution, and low-mounted battery deliver sharp handling and balance.

Standard and Long Range models offer smooth, composed performance ideal for daily use.

The Extended Range version combines brisk acceleration with impressive range (up to 520 km).

The XPOWER transforms the MG4 into a hot hatch — with dual motors (AWD), 435 hp, and 0–100 km/h in just 3.8 seconds, rivalling the Tesla Model 3 Performance and VW ID.3 GTX.

Ride comfort is well-judged, making it enjoyable both in city traffic and on twisty roads.

8. Fuel Efficiency / EV Range

Range and efficiency vary by version

Standard (51 kWh)350 km
Long Range (64 kWh)435 km
Extended Range (77 kWh)520 km

XPOWER (64 kWh, AWD): 385 km

Charging times

DC fast charge (144 kW)10–80% in ~35 minutes
AC 11 kW0–100% in ~6 hours

In real-world driving, expect efficiency around 15–17 kWh/100 km, making the MG4 highly cost-effective to run.

9. Practicality & Everyday Usability

Compact yet cleverly designed, the MG4 EV offers strong practicality:

Boot363 L (1,177 L with seats folded)

Flat rear floor for legroom comfort

Ample storage compartments and wireless charging pad

Compact turning circle (10.6 m)

Optional heat pump for improved cold-weather efficiency

While not class-leading in space, the MG4’s hatchback design and wide tailgate make it a capable everyday family EV.

10. Warranty & Maintenance

MG backs the MG4 with one of the most generous warranties in the industry:

7-year / 80,000-mile warranty (including battery and motor)

Service intervalsEvery 12 months or 15,000 miles

Low-cost MG Service Plans available for fixed maintenance pricing

The long warranty and simple EV powertrain make ownership stress-free and affordable.

11. Price & Value for Money

Approximate pricing (UK & Europe, 2025)

MG4 SE (51 kWh)£26,000 (€29,000)
MG4 SE Long Range (64 kWh)£28,500 (€32,000)
MG4 Trophy Long Range£31,000 (€35,000)
MG4 Extended Range (77 kWh)£35,000 (€39,000)
MG4 XPOWER (435 hp)£36,500 (€41,000)

The MG4 undercuts nearly every rival while delivering comparable range and performance, making it a class-leading value proposition.

12. Comparison with Rivals

ModelPowertrainRange (WLTP)0–100 km/hPrice (approx.)
MG4 EV Long RangeRWD, 64 kWh435 km7.7 s£28,500
VW ID.3 ProRWD, 58 kWh425 km7.4 s£36,000
Renault Mégane E-Tech EV60FWD, 60 kWh450 km7.5 s£37,000
Cupra Born 58RWD, 58 kWh420 km7.0 s£35,000
Tesla Model 3 RWDRWD, 60 kWh513 km6.1 s£40,000

13. Pros & Cons

Pros

Excellent value for money and long warranty

Rear-wheel drive = fun handling

Strong range and quick charging

Well-equipped with advanced tech

Hot-hatch XPOWER variant adds real excitement

Cons

Some interior plastics feel budget-grade

Ride can be firm on larger wheels

No frunk storage

Infotainment interface lacks physical controls

14. Overall Rating

4.7 / 5

15. Final Verdict

The 2025 MG4 EV is one of the best electric hatchbacks you can buy today — affordable, efficient, and genuinely enjoyable to drive. It proves that electric cars don’t have to be expensive to be well-built or exciting.

Whether you want a long-range commuter, a tech-savvy city car, or a performance EV hatch (XPOWER), the MG4 offers something for everyone. It’s not just MG’s best EV — it’s one of the smartest EV buys of 2025.

16. Affiliate CTA

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Pros & cons

Pros
  • Smooth and quiet electric driving character
  • Potentially low home-charging costs for regular commuters
  • Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
  • Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
Cons
  • Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
  • Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
  • Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
  • Public charging costs and winter range need checking before purchase

Final verdict

True Motion Auto verdict

The MG4 EV-compact electric hatchback (2020) is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.

Buyer checkpoints

Buyer checkpointTrue Motion Auto view
Best forDrivers wanting quiet electric running and low local emissions.
Body styleHatchback
Powertrain focusElectric
UK ownership noteCheck insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying.
VerdictWorth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the MG4 EV-compact electric hatchback (2020) good for UK roads?
Yes, provided the trim and wheel size suit your roads. Always test the car on rough urban surfaces as well as a faster road.
Should I buy new or used?
New can make sense with strong finance support and full warranty. Used can be better value if depreciation has already taken effect.
What should I check before ordering?
Check live UK pricing, standard equipment, insurance group, VED, servicing costs, delivery times and warranty terms.
Is it suitable for families?
That depends on rear-seat access, boot shape and child-seat fit. Test those items in person rather than relying only on figures.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.