MG has always been an attractive niche brand in the UK, one whose British sporting heritage appeals to many hearts.
The latest MG aims to appeal to the head as well as the heart. The MG3 now comes with a superb seven-year warranty – a time span only equalled by Kia.
The supermini has been revamped for 2018, with a bolder look at the front, including an angular grille reminiscent of Mazda’s and similar to that on the MG ZS SUV.
It’s flanked by new headlights with LED running lights, while the front bumper has also been revised with extra vents. Elsewhere on the exterior, there are new alloy wheel designs, new side skirts and a revised rear bumper. The overall effect is far more premium, but then it needs to be – top-spec MG3s now cost almost £3,000 more than the previous generation’s range-topper.
An all new cabin features a much more modern interior than the outgoing car.
There’s now a touchscreen infotainment system as standard on mid-range Excite trim upwards. While sat nav is unavailable, it does come equipped with Apple CarPlay – although sadly no Android Auto.
Trim levels run from Explore to Excite and Exclusive, with prices starting at £9,495 for the entry-level car. Standard equipment includes steel wheels, body-coloured bumpers, electric mirrors, LED headlights and a basic infotainment system.
Mid-range Excite trim, from £11,395, adds 16-inch alloys, a rear spoiler, a multifunction steering wheel and that new infotainment unit, while £12,795 Exclusive adds part-leather sports seats, a reversing camera, cruise control and an upgraded stereo.
The seven-year warranty covers 80,000 miles (industry leader Kia offers 100,000) and is transferable between owners.
jmckeown@thecourier.co.uk