If there’s one certain kind of model missing the MG lineup, it’s a three-row vehicle. It’s quite the omission given that the local market is hungry for practical seven-seaters.
Thankfully, that’s been rectified as the MG G50 MPV has been introduced at the 2024 Manila International Auto Show. We say it’s about time, too.
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If the shape looks familiar, that’s because it’s based on the Maxus G50. It’s worth pointing out that Maxus and MG are all part of the same automotive conglomerate, SAIC.
The MG version gets a unique front end that pares the look of its current models. There’s a sizable grille at the front that’s flanked by sharp-looking headlights. The rest of the body follows function over form with large windows and (nearly) flat panels. The G50’s rear doors open conventionally instead of a pair of sliders.
Par for the course, the MG G50 has a digital instrument cluster and a sizable touchscreen infotainment system. Leather is standard, along with automatic climate control and wireless charging. MG says there’s room for ‘up to eight’ passengers on-board. The model on display had a pair of captain's chairs in the second-row, leading us to assume there will be at least two variants of the MPV.
No diesel engine here. Instead, it uses a 1.5-liter turbo engine that produces 169hp and 250Nm of torque. That engine is then mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Given the sea of MPVs in the country, it will be interesting to see how MG positions this model in the market. Official pricing is yet to be announced, and that’s the one that can make or break MG Philippines’ first foray into the seven-seater market.
