MG debuts new premium IM brand at Geneva
MG MOTOR chose Geneva International Motor Show to introduce a swag of new models including the new MG3 light hatchback and hybrid, the newly minted premium IM brand featuring the IM L6 sedan and IM LS6 SUV, the fastback MG7 saloon, and the all-electric MG9 saloon; while also providing (more) details of the highly anticipated Cyberster sports car including an expected arrival Down Under in the second half of this year.
Given Aussie buyer preferences, the 7 saloon and the larger 9 saloon are highly unlikely to make it here but in relation to the IM (Intelligent Mobility) models, an MG Motor Australia executive said, “We have a range of cars under consideration for Australia and NZ including the IM Motors LS6.”
“The process is quite a complex process around why a specific variant is selected or not selected, so as we do with all our range, we will proactively work with our engineers locally and internationally as well as product, marketing, sales teams, dealer network and customer feedback to understand and cater our offering to their ongoing needs and wants.”
From that it appears the IM L6 sedan is an unlikely contender here while the LS6 SUV version is a possibility.
In relation to the Cyberster, the MG Motor Australia exec was quoted as saying, “MG can confirm the Cyberster is planned to arrive in Australia in the second half of this year. We’re looking forward to revealing the car to Australians, including specifications and pricing closer to launch”.
So, not giving much more away but it’s on the way and we know a bit more about it.
Details of the Cyberster have been on drip-feed since the model came to light a couple of years ago with MG Motor continuing this at Geneva.
The sleek dual motor variant runs an all-wheel drive configuration to deliver what MG say is “the fastest accelerating and most powerful production car to have worn the iconic MG badge”.
Backing the statement is the car’s claimed ability to run a 0-100km/h sprint in a scant in 3.2 seconds thanks to the 400kW combined power output coupled with 725Nm of torque.
Not far behind is the single motor RWD Cyberster that will deliver power figures of 250kW with 475Nm of torque on tap enabling a 0-100km/h sprint in 5.2 seconds.
The Geneva show provided an opportunity to see the latest refinement to Cyberster’s supercar-esque styling that “will be further enhanced with an evocative range of paint colours and finishes including the Dynamic Red launch colour”.
Other available hues are: New English White and two metallic paint choices, Camden Grey and Cosmic Silver with a dramatic Inca Yellow to be offered as a premium option.
Both black and red roof colours will also be offered for Cyberster models.
Geneva was the first opportunity to see the “premium and technologically cutting-edge” IM L6 sedan alongside the IM LS6 SUV. IM is the new “intelligent” BEV brand from MG’s parent company SAIC and will “explore new technologies to deliver an exciting driving experience”.
They are due to hit the European market next year and will be defined by a clear commitment to the use of advanced technology in driving assistance and controls, intelligent and connected services for customers as well as leading-edge EV powertrains.
If IM models make it to Australia, they will likely be sold under the MG badge.
On paper they have plenty of appeal with the all-electric L6 sedan combining “breathtaking performance, accelerating to 0-100 km/h in under three seconds, while also delivering an exceptional range over 600km and 800km in two different specifications,” says MG Motor.