MG is set to unveil a new high-riding electric hatchback in the coming months with the model expected to go on sale in overseas sometime in 2023, our sister publication Autocar UK cited sources at parent company SAIC as saying.
Exposed in prototype form in a series of photos uploaded to Chinese social media channels, the new hatchback is planned to join the company’s range of EVs on sale such as the facelifted ZS EV, 5 EV and the new MG Marvel-R.
- Production EV likely to debut by end-2022
- Could replace the MG 3 in global markets
New MG EV: What do we know
Although the project is shrouded in secrecy, according to Autocar UK, MG is planning to preview the new model as a concept at the Beijing motor show in April before unveiling the definitive production model during the second half of the year.
The production model is expected to hit global markets in 2023.
Among the styling details identifying the prototype as an MG is the middle section of the hatchback’s distinctive front bumper, which is shaped similar to that of the Chinese-owned carmaker’s recent Cyberster roadster concept.
The new model also features a prominent shoulder line reminiscent of that seen on the ZS. Other details are obscured by camouflage wrap covering the bodywork, though images from underneath show the battery and reveal the early testing mule uses an independent rear suspension.
The new MG is described as being shorter than the ZS, which extends to 4,314mm in length.
Could replace the MG 3 in global markets
Chinese media reports suggest the new hatchback could replace the second-generation MG 3, which has been in production at MG’s Nanjing plant in China since 2011, offering the choice of both electric and combustion drivetrains.
MG’s EV plans for India
In the Indian market, MG launched its first electric offering, the ZS EV, in early 2020 with the SUV receiving an update early last year. The carmaker is expected to bring the ZS EV facelift to India sometime this month. The facelifted EV will pack in a larger battery pack and improved range over the outgoing model.
Late last year, MG also confirmed that it was working on a second EV – a crossover – for the local market, to sit below the ZS. It said this new model will sit within the range of Rs 10 lakh-15 lakh, be based on a global platform, will be locally assembled and be “specially tailored for India.”
Should MG consider bringing this new all-electric model to the Indian market following it's global debut? Let us know in the comments below.