Aussie MG4 launch nears, gets Euro safety nod

THE MG4 electric small hatchback – confirmed for Australian release toward the middle of 2023 – has scored a five star safety rating in the most recent round of Euro NCAP testing, raising hopes that it will arrive here with a similarly high score.

A spokesperson for MG Motor Australia acknowledged that the Euro NCAP result will not necessarily be reflected here as changes to testing procedures are being implemented by ANCAP next year.

“Our customers can take great pride and comfort knowing that their MG4 features the latest technology, world class design and quality materials resulting in a top tier safety rating," the spokesperson said.

Depending on ANCAP testing and other logistics, the MG4 will arrive Down Under towards the end of H1 next year, perhaps a little later – it is already produced in right-hand drive for the UK market, where it is priced from £25,995 ($A47,257).

The MG4’s Euro NCAP score is the safety watchdog’s first test result involving MG parent company SAIC’s new modular scalable platform (MSP), an adaptable vehicle architecture that uses a thin battery pack design and long wheelbase.

As a result, MG’s first ground-up, dedicated electric model provides generous interior head and legroom for its footprint and has been well-received in overseas markets since it launched earlier this year. 

The rear-wheel drive MG4 has up to 450km of electric range from a single charge on the WLTP combined cycle when specified with the biggest (64kWh) battery pack.

Standard features include a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPIay and Android Auto, mirroring, MG iSmart app connectivity, and the MG Pilot suite of active safety and driver assistance tech that helped the entire MG4 line-up to achieve its five-star Euro NCAP rating.

After a purple patch in sales this year, MG Motor Australia is keenly anticipating the new MG4 that is similar in size and format to a Nissan Leaf but much more modern and will likely do battle at the lower end of the EV price range alongside the MG ZS EV and BYD Atto 3.

In the UK and likely here, MG offers a “Trophy Long Range” flagship variant that gains a 360-degree parking camera, native satellite navigation, heated front seats and steering wheel, and the ability to use a smartphone as the vehicle key.

The car is available in a choice of six colours including the striking Volcano Orange (pictured) while other exterior features include the active grille system regulating airflow into the front compartment to help achieve optimal battery range, and the two-tone black roof with twin rear spoiler design.

Other cool kit includes the MG iSMART app that allows owners to control many functions including charging, checking vehicle status, finding the nearest charging point, as well as pre-starting the climate control system before departure.