MG 3 review: how does the first hybrid compact car on the market perform?

The Chinese invasion is unstoppable. In the last year alone, eight new brands arrived, bringing the total to around twenty operating in our market. Meanwhile, established brands have been strengthening their model ranges, adding offerings in various segments.

Argentina has been one of the last countries in the region to open its doors to Chinese manufacturers. In other markets, such as Chile and Uruguay, for example, they have been present for some time and with a greater number of brands, while in Brazil, they already manufacture BYD , Great Wall Motors , and Chery (under license through an alliance with the local company CAOA). Geely will soon be joining them .

The progress made by the Chinese automotive industry is remarkable, and consumers know it. Prejudices about the reliability of their vehicles have been set aside because they are "good machines"; the only doubt lies in the country's long-term unpredictability.

The brand of European origin, with more than 100 years of history, made its arrival in the country through an agreement with Eximar , the importer that also has the representation of Volvo, Land Rover and Jaguar in the country.

The trunk capacity is 293 liters, the smallest in its segment. It doesn't have a spare tire, but rather a tire repair kit. Photo by Maxi Failla

Founded in the UK in 1924, Morris Garage was known for its convertible sports cars, although its direction took a sharp turn in 2007 when it became a subsidiary of SAIC, one of the largest groups in the Chinese automotive industry.

MG arrived in the country with four electrified models, three of which are already on sale: a compact hybrid SUV (MG ZS), a fully electric convertible (Cyberster), and this five-door self-charging hybrid compact called the MG 3. Next year, the MG4, another 100% electric alternative, will be added.

The MG 3 is the brand's most affordable offering in the local market. The range consists of two well-equipped versions priced at $23,500 and $25,900 .

If we analyze it by price, taking into account the official exchange rate, it's positioned, for example, on par with the fully equipped Toyota Yaris ($35,866,000), the best-selling car on the market; the fully equipped Chevrolet Onix ($35,061,900); the mid-range Peugeot 208 (starting at $35,580,000); and the lower-mid-range Volkswagen Polo (starting at $38,482,700), to name a few competitors. The major difference, in favor of the MG 3, is that it's the only one in its category with a hybrid propulsion system .

The most economical version offers several driving assistance systems and six airbags.

In terms of size and capacity, it neither stands out nor falls short. If you're being precise, the trunk (293 liters) is the smallest in its class, but it's worth noting that the average is 300-310 liters. Meanwhile, the rear seat space, suitable for two passengers to travel comfortably, is somewhat limited for people taller than 1.80 meters.

The equipment is one of its strongest points, surpassing most of its rivals. The entry-level version tested by Clarín includes several driver assistance features (front collision alert with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and assist, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control), six airbags (front, side, and curtain), push-button start, climate control with rear vents, an electric parking brake, and a rearview camera, among others.

The full (Luxury) version adds blind spot alert, rain sensor, heated steering wheel and front seats, eco-leather upholstery, 360° vision camera and keyless entry.

The instrument panel is 7 inches; a bit small for all the information it displays. Photo by Maxi Failla

The correct driving position is achieved thanks to the steering wheel being adjustable in height and depth (the seat also has a ratchet to achieve greater or lesser height).

The 7-inch digital instrument panel resembles that of a motorcycle. It packs a lot of information into a small space, and while it's configurable, there's no dedicated view for the tachometer, while the speedometer is always prominently displayed in the center. The different views are accessed via the steering wheel controls, though some getting used to them is necessary.

The 10.25” multimedia screen has a decent interface, although it's neither the most precise nor the fastest to respond to touch. Multiple functions (driving, climate control, music, and phone) are configured and operated from there.

Another area where the MG3 excels is its performance. Its hybrid powertrain combines a 1.5-liter, 100-horsepower gasoline engine with a 134 kW electric motor, delivering a combined output of 191 horsepower , making it the most powerful compact car on the market (excluding the GR Yaris, a true sports car). The system is paired with an automatic transmission that offers imperceptible gear changes.

In general, the MG 3 is quiet, comfortable, and has excellent acceleration response. In urban environments, the electric motor plays a crucial role, and its battery offers three self-charging ranges (low, medium, and high).

The same occurs, for example, when driving at a constant cruising speed: the electric and combustion engines alternate, achieving low fuel consumption which, in our driving test, averaged 5L/100 km .

Another advantage of the MG 3 is that, like all electrified vehicles, it is exempt from paying registration fees in several provinces and districts of the country, at least until 2027 when the 40% tax will begin to be levied (the regime will increase by 20% every year until it reaches 100% in 2030).

In short, this model is a very good calling card for MG's return to Argentina, a brand that moved beyond the sports car niche to target a more mainstream audience.