The MG4 is one of the most talked-about electric hatchbacks in Australia. It has managed to shake up the EV market with its affordable price, enjoyable driving experience, and a range that works well for everyday use. Since its release in 2023, it has quickly become a favorite for Australians who wanted to move to an electric car without having to spend too much.
This review takes a closer look at the MG4, covering its design, cabin features, infotainment system, driving performance, and overall ownership experience. From the entry-level version that keeps costs down to the performance-focused XPower model, the MG4 has shown that it can compete with brands like Tesla, BYD, and GWM in the growing EV market. Even so, it’s not perfect, and our detailed look will point out a few shortcomings as well.
MG4 Review Design and Interior
The MG4 review shows that while all versions of the car look quite similar from a distance, a closer look reveals small details that separate the entry-level Excite from the more powerful XPower. MG has kept the hatchback’s design sleek, sharp, and sporty, giving it a modern look that feels stylish without coming across as too aggressive.
The entry-level Excite models have a roof that matches the body color and simplistic style. The higher-end models, like the Essence and Long Range, and XPower, have a roof that has black pearl contrast. These variants also come with a double split spoiler mounted on top of the vehicle, which makes the car look more dynamic. The XPower version, in particular, has a sportier look with its unique 5-spokes alloy wheels and vivid orange brake pads that show through without streamlined wheel covers.
The MG4 report also talks about certain variations in lighting. The Excite hatch has regular tail light designs, while the XPower has an expanded LED strip layout at the back that runs across the hatchback for a spectacular night appearance. These design touches on the higher trims give the car a more premium feel, without drastically changing its overall appearance.
The MG4 review says that MG has kept the cabin clean and functional, but the amount of refinement varies by model. The Excite 51 has cloth seats that you may adjust by hand. They are comfortable enough for extended drives, although you can tell they are cheap. The XPower, on the other hand, has PU leather as well as Alcantara interior materials, heated seats, and electronic adjustability, which makes it feel much more high-end for the driver and passengers.
The center console on all trims is rather simple. It has a rotating gear selector, a comfortable armrest with a lot of storage space, and drink holders. One design problem that this MG4 review points out, though, is the placement of the gear selector, which can hit the driver’s knee depending on how they sit.
The back seats are okay, but not really spectacular. The MG4 review says that there is ample room for teens and adults alike, although MG left out a few relaxing options in the back. There are no separate air vents for passengers, only one USB-A outlet, and no cup holders in the back. The XPower tries to made up for this by including small storage pockets as well as map holders, but generally, the back seat isn’t the most comfortable part of this hatchback.
This MG4 review indicates evident that the MG4 was designed with current style, usefulness, and functionality in mind. The changes between trims are easy to see but not too big, so anyone can enjoy a sleek automobile design, no matter how much money they have.
MG4 Review Cargo Space and Towing Capacity
The MG4 review points out that MG has clearly aimed to make the car practical, although, like many small hatchbacks, its luggage space has its pros and cons. The Excite model comes with 363 liters of trunk space, which increases to 1,177 liters when the rear seats are folded. This makes the MG4 versatile enough for daily family needs, whether it’s running errands, taking the kids to school, or heading out for a weekend trip.
However, the higher trims — including the Essence, Long Range, and XPower — sacrifice a bit of storage. These versions have a slightly raised boot floor, which reduces the available space to 350 liters with the seats up and 1,165 liters when the seats are folded. According to the MG4 review, this loss of usable space feels unnecessary, as the higher floor doesn’t really add any practical benefit.
Another big problem with the MG4 is that it doesn’t have a front trunk, which is also known as a “frunk.” Because the MG4 has a short bonnet, there isn’t any storage space underneath it — a space that could have been handy for storing small items or charging cables. The charging bag needs to go in the back boot instead. The luggage tends to slide around because the underfloor compartment isn’t deep enough to contain it. This might be annoying for drivers who like things to be neat.
The MG4 review shows that MG has designed this hatchback to handle towing beyond what you might expect for its size. Every version can tow as much as 500 kg, whether the brakes are on or off. This might not be adequate for big trailers, but it’s great for modest loads like bicycles, light trailers, or an outdoor setup. MG also supplies an official towing kit at a fair price. For purchasers who want more options, third-party products like the Electric Stealth Trailer Towbar are also available.
This MG4 review clarifies that the MG4 doesn’t have as much storage room as a big SUV, but it does have enough space for a little EV hatch. It can tow modest loads, which makes it more useful than some of its rivals in this price bracket.
MG4 Review Infotainment and Connectivity
One of the most significant components of any current EV is its technology. This MG4 review talks about the car’s infotainment system’s pros and cons. The MG4 has a central touch screen that controls practically everything, from media to driving settings. The arrangement of the screen looks nice and the images are clear, but the reliability and convenience of use are still hit or miss.
The starting Excite trims don’t include built-in navigation or additional connectivity options. But this isn’t a significant deal because even in greater trims such as the XPower, the stock navigation system isn’t very accurate. The MG4 review says that routes often look weird, travel time predictions are wrong, and the system stops working in freeway tunnels, making the car look “stuck” until it comes out. This renders the navigation less dependable than utilizing applications on a smartphone.
The evaluation of mg4 also talks about how the system sometimes freezes. The main touchscreen may freeze when you start it up, and you’ll have to reset it by pressing down the primary button. These issues might be rectified in future software upgrades, but for now they are still a pain.
The good news is that the MG4 works with both connected Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which are far more reliable than the standard system. This lets drivers utilize important apps like Google Maps, Spotify, among others right from their phones. The MG4 review said that this feature is almost necessary for navigating because the factory interface has several problems.
The sound quality of MG4 is good, but not the best. The Excite model has four speakers, while the Essence and above models have six. The MG4 review says that the bass is weak at low frequencies but gets better when the sound level is turned up. Streaming music sounds clearer than regular frequency modulation or DAB radio. Some people may be disappointed that there isn’t an AM radio choice.
There are both USB-A as well as USB-C ports for connecting, but they don’t always work right. The mg4 review says that some phones have trouble using the USB-C connection, especially some Android versions. This means that drivers have to use USB-A instead. The MG4 can also make a WiFi hotspot in greater trims with standard SIM connectivity. This is a great feature for long excursions.
The MG4 review says that the infotainment system in this electric vehicle is hit or miss. The smartphone connectivity is great, and the audio quality is good, but MG’s system software remains behind other competitors. This can be one of the less reliable elements of the car for drivers who value tech dependability.
MG4 Review Driving Experience
One of the most surprising things highlighted in the MG4 review is how enjoyable it is to drive, even in the most affordable version. Unlike many budget EVs that focus solely on cutting costs, the MG4 feels lively, fun, and comfortable on the road.
The first thing that drivers will note is how easy it is to begin going. There isn’t any start button. Just press the brakes, turn the rotary dial to choose a gear, and you’re ready to go. The MG4 review says that this makes driving in the city quick and easy, which is great for people who desire an easy commute every day.
MG4 Review One Pedal Driving
The MG4 comes with one-pedal driving, but this review notes that the feature isn’t as seamless as it could be. Drivers need to switch it on manually every time they start the car, which can be a bit frustrating. On the Excite version, the system even defaults to the MG Pilot settings, so you may have to tap it several times to activate it. Once it is activated, the one-pedal mode works smoothly and offers gentle regenerative braking. However, you may still feel a few bumps or shudders while stopping at a red light.
The entry-level Motive 51 kWh battery actually offers 50.8 kWh of usable capacity. This is interesting because it gives the car its longest range but changes how it behaves when fully charged. According to the MG4 review, regenerative braking doesn’t work very effectively at full charge, and one-pedal driving only becomes possible once the battery drops below 90 percent.
MG4 Review Handling and City Driving
With its compact length of just under 4.3 meters and a tight turning circle, the MG4 is extremely easy to maneuver around city streets. Parking is simple thanks to the rear-view camera on the Excite and the 360-degree view offered on higher trims. The MG4 review praises the car for its excellent balance, particularly because of its rear-wheel-drive setup, which provides better traction and cornering compared to many front-wheel-drive EV rivals.
Acceleration is another strong point. On paper, the Excite 51 reaches 100 kilometers per hour in 7.7 seconds, which may not sound dramatic, but in real driving, it feels zippy and easily outpaces most petrol hatchbacks at traffic lights. The XPower variant, however, takes performance to another level. With all-wheel drive, 320 kilowatts of power, and 600 newton meters of torque, it feels wild and aggressive.
The MG4 review notes that while the XPower pushes drivers back in their seats, it struggles with traction. Launches from a standstill cause tire scrabble, even on dry roads, and low-speed corners show signs of torque steer and traction control intervention. The suspension and tires seem mismatched for the power output, which makes the XPower thrilling but sometimes unpredictable.
MG4 Review Driver Assistance
All MG4 variants include MG Pilot, the brand’s driver assistance suite. This adds adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking as standard. The higher trims like Essence and XPower add blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane change assist. In real use, the MG4 review found adaptive cruise control reliable, but lane centering occasionally drifts and even switches off without warning.
MG4 Review Efficiency
Energy consumption is another highlight. Around the city, the Excite 51 averaged 14.0 kWh per 100 kilometers, with highway driving at 16.2. The XPower was slightly less efficient, using 15.8 in city driving. These numbers translate into realistic ranges of 300 to 350 kilometers for the Excite, which matches its WLTP rating closely. Careful eco-mode driving can stretch the range even further, showing that MG has built an efficient hatchback despite its budget price.
MG4 Review Charging and Ownership Costs
Charging is one of the most important parts of any MG4 review, and here the MG4 offers both strengths and weaknesses depending on the model.
The entry-level MG4 Excite 51 has a smaller 50.8 kWh usable battery, which makes it cheaper to recharge but slower in terms of charging speed. It supports 100 kW DC fast charging, meaning that under ideal conditions it can charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 40 minutes. For home charging, a 7 kW wallbox will fully recharge the car overnight in about 7.5 hours, which is convenient for daily use.
The larger battery options, like the Excite 64 and Essence 64, boost the range and allow slightly faster DC charging at 135 kW, reducing the 10–80 percent charge time to about 35 minutes. For most drivers, this combination of range and charging speed makes the 64 kWh battery the ideal choice in the lineup.
MG4 Review Charging Practicality
The position of the charging port is one tiny annoyance that was brought up in the MG4 review. It is on the back passenger side, which might be a problem when utilizing some public chargers, particularly in small parking lots. Once plugged in, though, the MG4 shows clear charging data on both the display within and the little light ring surrounding the connector.
MG comes with a standard Type 2 rechargeable power cord and a 3-pin charging cable for residential use. This gives you options for charging at home and in public. A 3-pin plug can be slow and not great for everyday use, but it works in an emergency.
MG4 Review Running Costs
The MG4 shines when it comes to ownership costs. Electricity is far cheaper than petrol, and in Australia, recharging at home during off-peak hours can cost as little as $5–$7 for a full charge. Even when using public DC fast chargers, the MG4 is significantly more affordable to run compared to a petrol hatchback.
Servicing is also cheaper than traditional cars. The mg4 review notes that MG offers a seven-year unlimited kilometer warranty, one of the best in the segment. Routine maintenance costs are lower because electric vehicles have fewer moving parts, and no oil changes, as well as reduced brake wear thanks to regenerative braking.
MG4 Review Value for Money
The MG4 has lower overall ownership expenses than most of its competitors. The fact that it costs less than other electric vehicles such as the Kona from Hyundai electric car or the Tesla Model 3, along with its guarantee and low maintenance expenses, makes it a very appealing choice for those on a budget.
The XPower is substantially more expensive as well as less efficient, yet it still has lower energy expenses than petrol-powered sports automobiles. But because it has a more aggressive suspension setup and wears out tires faster, it can cost a little more to keep up with.
MG4 Review Safety and Reliability
The MG4 review demonstrates that MG has been working hard to make purchasers feel safe when they relate to safety. The MG4 boasts a lot of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) as well as has done well in international crash tests, even though it is cheap.
The Euro NCAP gave the MG4 a five-star safety grade in 2022. This ranks as one of the oldest and most reputable safety tests in the world. This rating looks at things like how well it protects adults, children, and pedestrians, as well as safety elements that help keep people safe. The result shows that the MG4 offers a lot of protection, which is the same as more expensive EVs.
MG4 Review Standard Safety Features
Every MG4, even the entry-level Excite 51, comes standard with MG Pilot, a suite of active safety technologies. According to the mg4 review, this includes:
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
- Traffic Jam Assist
- Intelligent Speed Limit Assist
Higher trims, such as the Essence and XPower, add extra layers of safety with blind spot monitoring, lane change assist, and rear cross-traffic alert. These features make driving safer in both city traffic as well as on highways.
MG4 Review Reliability
The MG4 is more reliable since electric cars have simpler mechanical designs. There are fewer things that can go wrong with electric cars since they have fewer moving parts. The MG4 review says that MG’s seven-year unlimited kilometer guarantee gives purchasers more confidence, especially those who are new to owning an EV.
There isn’t a lot of long-term reliability data yet because the MG4 is a new model, but early reports say the car is working well and not having many problems. It is important for EV owners to know that the battery is protected by the warranty.
MG4 Review Safety for Families
For families, the MG4 provides practical safety features such as ISOFIX mounting points for child seats, multiple airbags, and a strong body structure. Its rear passenger space and hatchback design also make it suitable for carrying kids and luggage, while safety assists help new drivers feel more confident.
MG4 Review Variants and Pricing
The MG4 review says that MG has a lot of different models to meet various requirements and budgets, which makes it one of the best-suited EV ranges in its class. Prices in Australia are far lower than those of numerous rivals, which is a significant reason why the MG4 is so popular with those who are buying their first electric vehicle.
MG4 Review Excite 51
The Excite 51 has become the cheapest model and has a 125 kW motor as well as a 51 kWh rechargeable battery (50.8 useable). It can go up to 350 miles on a single charge and goes from from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in 7.7 seconds. Even though it’s the lowest model, it still comes with MG Pilot protection tech, a 10.25-inch touchscreen screen, as well as an electronic driver display.
MG4 Review Excite 64
The Excite 64 has a bigger 64 kWh battery and a 150 kW motor, which gives it a range of up to 450 km. It can also charge faster at 135 kW DC, which makes it better for lengthy road journeys. A lot of buyers think this version is the greatest since it has the best balance of price, reliability, and efficiency.
MG4 Review Essence 64
The Essence 64 adds more comfort and technology. Along with the 64 kWh battery and 150 kW motor, it comes with premium upgrades such as a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging, and upgraded interior trim. This makes it more appealing for buyers who want a modern EV experience without stepping into performance territory.
MG4 Review Long Range 77
The Extended Range 77, with a 180 kW engine as well as a 77 kWh battery, is the most efficient model. It has the best WLTP range of any MG4 family member, at an astonishing 530 km. This makes it perfect for people who drive long distances often and don’t want to stop to charge as often.
MG4 Review Xpower
The XPower is the most exciting version. It has two motors and all-wheel drive and makes 320 kW as well as 600 Nm of torque. It goes from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.8 seconds, which makes it as one of the quickest electric vehicles in its price category. Its range of 385 km is lesser because of the power output, but it’s made for people who desire EV speed without having to pay for a Tesla.
MG4 Review Pricing in Australia
Before adding on-road costs, the prices for the MG4 lineup in Australia are approximately:
- Excite 51 costs $38,990
- Excite 64 costs $44,990.
- Essence 64 costs $47,990.
- Long Range 77 costs $55,990.
- XPower costs $59,990.
The MG4 ranks as one of the most economical electric vehicles with good range and performance because it costs several thousand dollars less than competitors like the Kona from Hyundai Electric along with Tesla Model 3.
MG4 Review Final Verdict
The MG4 review finds it evident that MG has made one of the best affordable EVs on the marketplace after looking over every detail. It’s not perfect, but its low price, long range, and fun driving experience make it a great choice for people who wish to switch to electric with out spending a lot of money.
MG4 Review Strengths
The MG4’s best features are its low price, long warranty, and high efficiency. It’s hard to put up against its value when it costs less than $40,000 in Australia, comes with a seven-year infinite kilometer guarantee, and has energy usage numbers that are better than those of more expensive EVs. It’s a significant plus because even the most inexpensive model has a digital interior and a number of safety measures.
MG4 Review Weaknesses
On the flip side, there are areas where the MG4 could improve. As highlighted in this MG4 review, the infotainment system can feel laggy, the climate controls buried in the screen are less user-friendly, and the one-pedal driving system should be easier to activate. The XPower variant, while extremely fast, struggles with traction and doesn’t feel as polished as rivals in the performance EV space.
MG4 Review Who Should Buy It
The MG4 is a great choice for people who are buying their first electric vehicle, families who need a safe and inexpensive hatchback, and people who commute and want to keep their expenditures down. The Excite 64 as well as Essence 64 are the best choices because they offer good range and technology without costing a lot of money. The Extended Range 77 is great for people who want to go on road trips, whereas the XPower is ideal for people who desire sports car efficiency at half the price of a regular EV.
MG4 Review Conclusion
The MG4 shows that electric cars don’t have to be boring or expensive. It’s useful, enjoyable to drive, secure, and comes in a lot of various trims to fit different needs. It has some flaws, but its advantages far outweigh its faults, which makes it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market right now.
MG4 Review FAQs
1. Is the MG4 a good first EV?
Yes, the MG4 review shows it’s affordable, easy to drive, and cheap to run, making it ideal for first-time EV buyers.
2. How long does it take to charge the MG4?
On a DC fast charger, the MG4 can go from 10–80% in 35–40 minutes, depending on the variant. A home wallbox takes around 7–9 hours overnight.
3. What is the real-world range of the MG4?
The Excite 51 delivers about 300–350 km, while the Long Range 77 can reach over 500 km in real-world conditions.
4. Is the MG4 safe for families?
Yes, with a five-star Euro NCAP rating, ISOFIX points, and advanced driver assistance features, the MG4 is a strong family option.
5. How does the MG4 compare to Tesla?
While the Tesla Model 3 has more advanced tech, the MG4 review shows MG4 is far more affordable while still offering strong range, safety, and driving enjoyment.
