MG Philippines is launching two models—the MG3 subcompact hatchback and the G50 Plus seven-seat MPV—later this month, and if you want a preview and some actual seat time in these two upcoming cars, you can check them out this weekend at the Auto Focus Summer Test Drive Festival.
Locally, the MG3 will be available with a hybrid variant—this was already confirmed by the Department of Energy’s list of recognized electric vehicles as of May 2024. So far, only the specs for the gasoline-powered version were displayed at the event, but the hybrid MG3 will get a 1.5-liter engine paired with an electric motor to produce a combined 191hp and 250Nm of torque. As a full hybrid, it will also qualify for number coding exemption.
The non-hybrid MG3 will be available in three variants: Standard, Comfort, and Lux. They all get a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine that generates 118hp and 150Nm of torque, delivered to the front wheels either by a five-speed manual in the base spec or a continuously variable transmission in the two higher trim levels.
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Among the standard equipment for the range are a seven-inch virtual instrument cluster, remote keyless entry, stability control, and rear parking sensors. Features reserved for the top-spec variant include lane watch, lane-departure alert, and lane-keep assistance, pre-collision warning, and a 360-degree-view camera. The base variant is equipped with a radio, while the higher specs get a 10.25-inch multimedia touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Meanwhile, the MG G50 Plus will be the brand’s entry to the popular seven-seat MPV segment. It’s powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged in-line-four gasoline engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Peak figures are 167hp and 250Nm of torque, but what we’re really interested to see is the real-world fuel consumption of this people hauler.
As to how many people it can haul, it will come in seven- and eight-seat configurations. Higher trim levels will get features like LED auto headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The seven-seater test-drive unit at the event featured wireless charger, rear A/C controls, and a 12-inch infotainment system.
MG Philippines hasn’t released prices yet at the time of writing. Sales representatives told us the G50 Plus could start at roughly P1.2 million, which is on par with the entry price of the recently launched GAC M6 Pro. Again, this isn’t the official pricing—we’ll keep you posted on that as soon as we get updates.
For now, you have until Sunday to check out these new cars in the metal. The Auto Focus Summer Test Drive Festival is happening from May 9 to 12, 11am to 9pm, at the SM Mall of Asia Open Grounds.
More photos of the MG3:
More photos of the MG G50 Plus:
