All-new MG 3 launches in PH with segment-first hybrid option, starts at Php 678K
3 min read
With only few options to choose from in the subcompact hatchback category, you’d think the segment is good as dead. Proving it’s not is MG Philippines as they introduce the all-new second generation of the MG 3.
The MG 3 was previously available in the country when the Chinese automaker was under its first local distributor. You could still get one not so long ago (I tried buying a brand-new one in 2020) from dealers who still had some units in their inventory. Now it’s back for the second time and might cause a revolution in the dwindling segment.
To start off, the all-new MG 3 will be available with four variants to choose from–Standard M/T, Comfort CVT, Lux CVT, and HEV.
Let’s start with the powertrains as this is where this small hatchback will stand-out from the competition. As in the title of this launch article, the top-spec variant gets a full hybrid powertrain and no, it’s not a mild-hybrid but a true hybrid.
That’s MG’s Hybrid+ powertrain composed of a 1.5-liter Inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine that runs on the Atkinson-cycle and produces 102 horsepower and 128 Nm of torque, paired to a 100 kW electric motor and 1.83 kWh battery. Combined, this powertrain produces a total of 194 horsepower.
Meanwhile, the rest of the lineup will be powered by a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated Inline 4-cylinder gasoline engine making 120 horsepower and 150 Nm of torque, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission (Standard M/T) or a CVT.
When it comes to design, the all-new MG 3 is a huge departure from what it replaces, wearing a similar design language as other models in the British-Chinese automaker’s lineup albeit a bit simpler.
The front fascia features sleek triangular wraparound headlights, while the bumper has large openings, both real and fake. The side is rather simple but various character lines do mix it up over here. As for the rear, it’s familiar MG.
Standard exterior equipment starting from the base 1.5 Standard M/T variant are halogen headlights, LED daytime running lights, LED taillights, and a rear spoiler. Going for the 1.5 Comfort CVT adds 16-inch alloy wheels. Finally, the Lux and HEV variants give you LED headlights and power folding side mirrors.
Available exterior color options for the all-new MG 3 are St. Moritz Blue, Morning Yellow, Extreme Speed Red, Blade Silver, Andes Gray, Pearl Black, and York White.
Like the outside, the interior is a huge departure from the previous generation MG 3 with a more modern design that is also akin to other models in the brand’s lineup like the MG 4 and MG GT.
Standard interior equipment on the base 1.5 Standard M/T variant are fabric seats, 7-inch digital instrument cluster, and a dual speaker audio system. The 1.5 Comfort CVT adds an electronic parking brake with auto-hold function, push button start, electronic A/C control, rear A/C vents, a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a four-speaker audio system. Going for the Lux CVT and HEV variants gives you PVC+ fabric seat material, driver seat height adjustment, leather-wrapped steering wheel, seat back pockets, and a six-speaker audio system.
In terms of safety, the all-new MG 3 is also well-equipped with available advanced driver-assist systems (ADAS) known as MG Pilot technology, at least on the Lux and HEV variants. This means it gets a Pre Collision System, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, and a Lane Watch Camera.
The all-new MG 3 is priced as follows:
- 1.5 Standard M/T – Php 678,888
- 1.5 Comfort CVT – Php 828,888
- 1.5 Lux CVT – Php 898,888
- 1.5 HEV – Php 1,088,888
Customers will also be able to take advantage of 24/7 roadside assistance service and a five-year or 100,000 kilometer vehicle warranty, whichever comes first.
