There's a new hybrid contender in the B-segment. It's the MG3 Hybrid+, the compact and first full hybrid of the Anglo-Chinese brand which is preparing to hit the road with the second generation of the smallest model available in the range. Small dimensions, comfort and reduced consumption thanks to electrification are the prerequisites for this car, also thanks to its price, ready to compete with more renowned models. As? We'll tell you about it in our preview test behind the wheel of the MG3 Hybrid+.
Design
However, let's start first with the features on the outside of the passenger compartment. The new MG3 Hybrid+ is 4.11 meters long, is 1.80 m wide, 1.50 m high and has a wheelbase of 2.57 metres. The front takes up the stylistic features already seen on the rest of the range, with a large grille in the lower part and thin, arched headlights that make the grille expressive. The ribs on the bodywork give movement to the silhouette while at the rear the style is simpler and more thoughtful, with horizontally developed lights and characterized by 3D graphics. The double-spoke rims are made of alloy and have a specific design. Cargo capacity is 293 litres, not the best in class but still good value compared to some of its rivals.
Tech interiors for MG3 Hybrid+
Even with compact shapes, MG3 Hybrid+ still offers good habitability and a technological dashboard. Behind the wheel is a 7″ digital instrument cluster and an infotainment system display that reaches 10.25″. However, the touch screen is combined with physical controls to keep distractions for the driver to a minimum. As standard there is manual air conditioning, a rear-view camera with parking sensors at the rear while in the high-end trim levels we find heated seats and steering wheel, 360° camera, imitation leather upholstery and even a keyless system. The ADAS equipment is extensive, including adaptive cruise control, Traffic Jam Assist, lane keeping and lane departure warning.
Engine and hybrid system
The heart of the new MG3 Hybrid+ is the 195 HP hybrid powertrain of overall power, made up of a 102 HP 1.5 petrol engine, a 136 HP electric motor, a generator and a 1.83 kWh battery. The sprint from 0 to 100 km/h takes 8 seconds and the top speed is 170 km/h. According to data provided by the Anglo-Chinese brand, consumption should be around 4.4 l/100 km, with the possibility of proceeding for some sections at up to 80 km/h in fully electric mode thus contributing to this result. The MG3 Hybrid+ can also proceed in other modes, Driving and Charging, with the thermal engine providing power to the wheels and recharging the battery thanks to the generator, Parallel, with the two units working together and Series mode, in which the thermal uses the generator to power the electric motor, which in turn provides power to the wheels. As for the traditional driving modes, Eco, Standard and Sport are available.
How the compact hybrid fares, driving impressions
In our first test of the MG3 Hybrid+ we had the opportunity to drive the compact hybrid of the English brand on a mixed route that unfolded from the province of Bologna, precisely Valsamoggia where Macron is based, a leading sportswear company that hosted the Italian debut of this model, towards the first hilly part of the area. In this journey we have the opportunity to see that the reduced consumption highlighted by MG Motor is actually one of the strong points of this car. The data found is in fact close to 4.4 litres/100 km declared by the brand, with the emission level of 100 g which also allows the MG3 Hybrid+ to be included in the incentive bracket. The seat is comfortable and the steering light but precise. Perhaps a little more could have been done in the finishes of the upper part of the dashboard but the fittings are still very complete and the environment is well constructed. The large glazing, with thin and inclined pillars, allows for brightness and guarantees good visibility for those behind the wheel.
Price and equipment of MG3 Hybrid
Overall, therefore, the offer of this model is more than complete, with enough space for a car in this segment but also good reactivity and a positive balance at the distributor. Orders for the new MG3 Hybrid+ are already open, with first deliveries expected to begin in the summer. Three trim levels will be available, Standard, Comfort and Luxury, with the price which starts from 19,990 euros but can drop to around 16,000 euros thanks to the ecobonus. Finally, MG Motor also offers a purchase formula with financing, with equal installments of 99 euros for all trim levels (against an advance payment that changes depending on the version).
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