All-new MG4 for technology and safety

MG is making the latest developments in automotive technology more accessible than ever.

The iconic car maker has established itself as a popular mainstream brand in Australia on the strength of its value-packed range of small cars and SUVs, which are packed with cutting-edge innovations in autonomous driver aids and digital technology.

Now, it has pressed fast forward on the future and introduced its ground-breaking first dedicated electric vehicle, the MG4, which further cements the company’s position as a pioneer of advanced features that ensure its occupants are provided with the latest in convenience, connectivity, comfort, and safety.

So, let’s check it out.

The MG4 is the iconic brand’s newest model to be available in Australia and the company’s first dedicated fully electric vehicle, with the introduction of the Modular Scalable Platform. Also referred to as the MSP, this dedicated platform provides a performance-led electric drivetrain as well as more interior space for yourself and your crew.

The sharp-dressed mid-sized, five-door hatchback is offered in two trim levels, with options across three battery sizes.

The entry-level Excite 51 is one of Australia’s most affordable EVs, with a starting price of just $38,990 (plus on-road costs) when equipped with a 51kWh lithium-ion battery or $44,990 (plus ORCs) for the Excite 64, with 64kWh battery pack.

Stepping up, the flagship Essence 64 (from $47,990 plus ORCs) has a 64kWh battery, while the Long Range 77 (from $55,990 plus ORCs) builds on this with a 77kWh battery.

All are powered by a single electric motor with rear-wheel drive that produces varying levels of peak power depending on the battery capacity (125kW with the smallest battery, 150kW with the mid-size power pack, and 180kW in the Long Range 77 model).

And each provides a different maximum driving range. The base Excite 51 can travel up to 350km on a single charge and the Excite 64 can achieve 450km, while the Essence 64 and Long Range 77 can travel up to 435km and 530km respectively.

The MG4 proves that safety doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

All models are equipped with a long list of advanced driver aids, bundled together under the banner of the MG Pilot Active Safety Suite.

This revolves around a series of camera and radar sensors that provide an additional set of eyes on the road around the car.

At the centre of it all is Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, which will automatically apply the brakes if it detects any obstacles in front of the car.

This system also works in conjunction with Lane Keeping Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, which constantly monitors the position of the vehicle within road markings and will activate an alert to the driver while gently manoeuvring the steering to ensure the car remains in the centre of the lane.

The MG4 also makes light work of heavy traffic thanks to Adaptive Cruise Control. When activated, the vehicle will maintain the set speed until it detects a slower vehicle in front and will then automatically decelerate to maintain a safe, pre-determined distance.

In heavy traffic, the Adaptive Cruise Control will bring the vehicle to a complete standstill when it detects a vehicle has stopped in front, providing the driver with a convenient, more relaxing way to deal with stop-start traffic. In addition, the Traffic Jam Assist will help guide the MG4 in between the lanes depending on the condition of the road.

The Intelligent Speed Assistance System with Traffic Sign Recognition feature allows the MG4’s camera to read standardised roadside speed signs and will alert the driver to any changes in the posted speed limit through a visual warning on the dashboard.

The MG Pilot Active Safety Suite is extended in the Essence 64 and Long Range 77 models with the addition of a five extra features, being Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Emergency Lane Keep Assist with Lane Change Assist, and a Door Opening Warning.

All MG4 models also have Intelligent High Beam Assist, which automatically dips the headlights when it recognises oncoming traffic at night, and a Driver Attention Alert, which constantly monitors the driver’s inputs through the steering to assess their alertness. This clever system will activate a warning if it detects the driver may not be paying full attention to the road ahead.

Not only does the MG4 keep the driver connected on the road, but it also has an extensive array of technology to keep all its occupants connected to the outside world.

In contrast to its sleek, minimalist interior design, the MG4 is packed full of the latest in digital technology with all models hosting a twin screen set-up: a 7.0-inch display for the instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen for the centre-mounted infotainment system.

The crystal-clear instrument cluster is configurable via a toggle on the steering wheel to show myriad important functions, such as navigation instructions or trip and vehicle information on the right-hand side and safety information on the left.

On the MG4 you can set your favourite buttons on the steering wheel through the infotainment screen. One option you can set the favourite button to is controlling the AC. This allows the driver to not take their hands off the steering wheel and control the AC straight from the steering wheel through using the favourite button.

The infotainment screen houses all the ancillary functions, including air conditioning controls, in an easy-to-use menu system, with all models featuring smartphone mirroring for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay that provides easy access to satellite navigation and music streaming apps such as Spotify and Apple Music.

All models also feature the convenience of keyless entry with automatic start/stop, which immediately activates the vehicle when it recognises the driver is inside the cabin. All you have to do is select Drive or Reverse and you’re away – as quick as that!

The flagship Essence 64 and Long Range 77 models build on the generous level of standard equipment with wireless phone charging, plus a 360-degree parking display, heated front seats with six-way power adjustment for the driver, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and electric folding exterior mirrors.

With MG iSmart, owners can stay connected to their car even when it isn’t near them. Using the dedicated smartphone app, owners can monitor their vehicle at any time.

MG4 owners can stay connected by accessing various functionality across the vehicle all within the palm of their hand. All MG4 models are able to be connected to MG’s exclusive iSMART app, available on your smartphone device. The MG4 Excite trims harness the power of the iSMART Lite edition, while additional connectivity is afforded in Essence 64 and Long Range 77 models via the iSMART Online service with Mobile Bluetooth Key Remote.

With iSMART connectivity you’re able to remotely check on the battery’s state of charge, remaining driving range, tyre pressures, and the vehicle’s precise location – handy if you forget where you parked at the shopping centre.

If that isn’t enough convenience, the MG4 can also make you a cup of tea or toast for breakfast.

Well, not directly, but all MG4 models have Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capacity, which allows owners to use the stored energy and plug-in electrical appliances or recharge other battery-powered devices such as e-Scooters, e-Bikes, and laptop computers.

So, there you go, the MG4 packs a lot of the latest technology – and value – into one of the country’s most affordable electric vehicles, making it easier for Australian families on a budget to remain safe and connected when on the road.

To take a closer look at the all-new MG4, ‘take charge’ and visit MG Australia.