2022 MG4 review: electric hatchback has winning formula

Now owned by the Chinese conglomerate SAIC, we expect MGs to be affordable and this one is. We expect them to be well equipped for the money too and it is that as well. Less predictable is when one comes along, takes the benchmark car in its class and beats it to a pulp before your very eyes.

But that is precisely what the new electric MG4 hatchback does. It is approximately the same size as a Volkswagen ID.3 and offers similar power and range. So far so not that eye-opening. But it is far more fun to drive than the VW, better to look at and thousands cheaper. And that’s a winning formula.

The reborn MG has hitherto not so much as hinted that it was capable of creating a car as competitive as this, and as the Korean brands’ offerings have now vacated the ‘affordable alternative’ territory and cost as much as European cars, MG is perfectly positioned with such an effective car and with such a familiar brand to occupy that space and make hay for itself.

If it can continue to make cars as well-conceived as this, the success will be deserved. And it is likely, because the MG4 is just the first car to use a brand new modular and flexible platform which will allow designs as different as a two-door sports car and a large SUV.

MG is the fastest-growing car brand in Britain. Drive this and you’ll see why. AF

MG MG4 Trophy

• Price £31,495
• Engine Rear electric motor, 64kWh battery
• Power 201bhp
• Torque 184lb ft
• Weight 1685kg
• Power to weight 119bhp per tonne
• Transmission Single-speed, rear-wheel drive
• 0-60mph 7.7sec
• Top speed 100mph
• Range 281 miles (WLTP)
• CO2 0g/km
• Verdict Deserving of a trophy.