Your questions answered: Is MG Chinese-owned?

There is more and more talk about Chinese cars as MG, LDV and GWM grow their following in Australia.

But much of the talk comes in the form of questions, from the origins of the brands to the reliability, quality and resale value of their products.

Question: Some time ago I heard that the MG car brand had sold their badge to China and they were not the cars of old. What is your opinion — Gerry M

Answer: It’s not an opinion, it’s a fact. MG is Chinese owned as are brands like Volvo and Lotus. We’ve driven MG’s two newest SUV models and they are decent but still have progress to make to match the best from brands like Hyundai and VW. MG is not the only Chinese brand making good progress with its products, the latest SUVs and dual-cabs from brands such as LDV and GWM are also much improved.

Question: I have sent an email of protest to MG Australia about them using the slogan ‘MG Value Since 1924’ in their advertising. I am very concerned as a motoring sportsman that MG Australia is misleading people with claims that the Chinese-operated company has been building MG motor cars since 1924, which is incorrect as the original Morris Garage stopped production back in 1972 in Longwall Street, Oxford, in England. — Slade Y

Answer: You are not the only one who feels this way.

Question: Your opinion on Chinese-manufactured tyres, please. I am very uncomfortable about them, particularly with long-term use. Just recently I had a new set of tyres put on my Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace and I’m not sure whether I should change them. — Klaudia S

Answer: After investigating, your tyres are from the South Korean brand Hankook, which makes perfectly acceptable tyres. As yet, it’s too early to judge Chinese tyres but there are global brands that manufacture in China, including Michelin, and they will apply their normal quality standards.

Question: Just after a quick opinion on a small SUV. A Volkswagen T-Roc, which is what I prefer, or my husband’s choice of the Nissan QASHQAI. We are prepared to spend $40,000. — Carolyn W

Answer: You win. There is no comparison. T-Roc is brand-new, classy and a good drive. QASHQAI is none of those.

Question:  I was just after your thoughts on a Volkswagen Tiguan, 2020 model. I am trying to convince my husband into one. — Susan P

Answer: You win. It’s a very good choice, although not the cheapest in the mid-size SUV field.

Question: I am looking for a car under $25,000 to tow a maximum of 650kg every day. It’s a dog grooming trailer and that will be its maximum weight. I have a 2016 Hyundai i30 Active X but am told, even though it can tow that weight, it would ruin my car very fast.
— Maria A

Answer: The official tow rating for the i30 is only 600kg, so you definitely need to upgrade. Don’t be tempted to go for a ute as, even though it will tow the weight, it’s overkill and there are far smarter choices. You will be best with a compact SUV, but with that budget you’re probably best to head for a second-hand Kia Sportage as they are good value and there should be plenty of choice.

Question: I have a Mercedes-Benz C250 BlueTEC sedan which is a great car and I love driving it. I have downloaded and installed the ‘Mercedes me’ app on my phone but for full functionality I require a Mercedes me app Bluetooth adaptor. I have read in the owner’s manual that by having anything plugged into the car’s diagnostics port that factory settings could be reset, putting me at risk of having an accident. Do Mercedes-Benz dealers provide and install ‘me’ app adaptors for free? — David M

Answer: Mercedes-Benz Australia replies: “There is a promotion at the moment and retailers will supply the adapter for free and I’m sure they would be more than happy to assist with the install and set-up.”

Question: My son is thinking about buying a Volkswagen Polo. Is a 1.0-litre engine enough and what do you think of Polos? — Kevin B

Answer: The Polo is a great little car. The basic engine only makes 70kW, but the car is light and – although it’s definitely not a fireball – it has adequate performance for typical city and suburban running. And it will be very economical on a trip.

Question: My husband and I are both in our mid 60s and wanting to buy a new small SUV around the $35,000-45,000 mark. We have looked and test driven the Kia Seltos, Skoda Karoq and Toyota RAV4. We would appreciate your thoughts and concerns regarding these cars, or which other one is the best to look at in this price range. — Judy L

Answer: All three are good cars but the Karoq is a hidden gem from the Volkswagen Group. It would be my choice.

Question: My wife is a nurse living in the country, travelling about 180km each day for work, four days a week. We are looking at a compact SUV for her – we currently have a Kia Sorento with 200K on the clock which she loves, but it’s too big. We were looking at the Mitsubishi ASX 2.0-litre petrol and the Hyundai Kona 2.0-litre petrol. Could you give us your advice? We would be willing to look at anything in the class if you have better suggestions. — Todd D

Answer: I would rate the Kona a long way ahead of the ASX and it’s a good choice in the class.

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