Tag Archives: MG

EV, TEST DRIVE

MG4 XPower is blazingly fast but is it the pick of the bunch? – Test Drive

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The MG4 XPower was launched in Malaysia nearly ago as the most affordable vehicle capable of sprinting from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds.

Say what you want about EVs, but there’s no denying that said performance is absolutely remarkable—years ago, achieving such speeds was the realm of sports cars and supercars costing hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of ringgit.

Now, thanks to technological advancements in EVs, you can experience the same thrilling sensation for just under RM160,000.

Of course, there are a few other EV models that can reach 100 km/h a touch faster, like the Volvo EX30 Ultra Twin Performance (3.6 seconds) and the Smart #3 Brabus (3.7 seconds), but both of these come with a price tag exceeding RM200,000.

But does the MG4 XPower’s advantage lie solely in its speed? What about other aspects such as design, comfort, range, and technology? Read on to find out.

Design

The MG4 is a five-door hatchback with somewhat unique proportions. To the eye, it appears fairly large, yet it is actually 3 mm shorter than the cutesy BYD Dolphin. Comparatively, it is 17 mm longer than the Smart #1, but its wheelbase is 45 mm shorter.

What stands out, however, is that the MG4 is noticeably lower and wider than both models, giving it a more aggressive stance and an aerodynamic edge.

Its sporty appearance is complemented by its very sharp front-end design, a double roof spoiler, and striking orange brake caliper covers emblazoned with ‘XPower.’

It’s a bit odd, though, that apart from the brake calipers, there’s no other part of the car adorned with the XPower logo. Were this vehicle crafted by BMW or Mercedes-Benz, you’d no doubt find M and AMG badges scattered across the bodywork.

Interior

Unlike its exterior, the cabin design of the MG4 offers a more understated aesthetic. Those hoping for a modern, futuristic design might find themselves a bit disappointed, as nothing particularly cutting-edge stands out.

However, this isn’t necessarily a downside. A simple layout is easier to the eyes and can actually facilitate the transition from ICE (Internal Combustion Engine) vehicles to EVs.

What’s available is just what you need for everyday driving – a touchscreen complemented by a row of physical buttons beneath it, a floating centre console housing the gear knob and a wireless charger, steering wheel controls on either side, and a digital instrument panel.

Much like other EVs on the market, most features are accessed via the touchscreen. However, fear not—the MG4’s steering wheel comes equipped with star (shortcut) buttons, which can be configured for various functions such as climate control, energy recuperation, and driving modes.

One aspect that I found less appealing was the overly generous use of hard plastic for the dashboard and door panels. Not only that, but the gear knob also feels somewhat loose but I’d take this over having to select gears via the touchscreen any day.

Practicality and comfort

Hatchbacks generally offer limited cabin space, but with the MG4, you needn’t fret if you’re carting around extra passengers, as the interior feels rather spacious for its size.

It boasts ample storage in the centre console and each door, and the boot holds a decent capacity of 363 litres, which can expand further with the rear seats folded flat if the boot isn’t quite large enough.

Speaking of the back seats, I found them quite comfortable and not overly upright. Legroom and headroom are adequate for those of average build, though it would have been nice if MG had considered air vents for rear passengers.

Performance

As mentioned, the MG4 excels in acceleration. This is a welcome trait if you find yourself challenged by the car next to you at traffic lights, but to be honest, such ‘mad’ performance can become a bit exhausting.

This is because the car accelerates effortlessly, without the drama typically experienced in ICE vehicles. While this isn’t an issue on the motorway, in urban environments, the body movement due to inertia when accelerating (and braking) can leave you feeling worn out after some time.

To overcome this, I found using the ECO mode offered a more controlled acceleration.

In terms of range, the XPower variant isn’t the best choice if driving range is your top priority. It comes equipped with a 64 kWh battery that delivers a WLTP range of 385 km on a full charge.

While this is reasonable for city driving, it’s essential to remember that range can also depend on driving style and other factors. If your right foot tends to be heavy, that number will plummet significantly.

For peace of mind, you might opt for the Lux Extended Range variant, which sports a larger 77 kWh battery, promising a range of up to 520 km. That should be enough for four to five days, depending on your usage.

Conclusion

In summary, the MG4 XPower offers incredible value for money for EV enthusiasts craving performance without breaking the bank.

However, personally, I see the Lux Extended Range variant as a more rounded choice overall. It is RM10,000 cheaper, and with a century sprint of 6.1 seconds, it’s still plenty quick for most drivers out there. Moreover, with a larger battery, range anxiety won’t be something to lose sleep over.

MG4 XPower Specifications

Price: RM159,629
Power: 435 PS (320 kW)
Torque: 600 Nm
Battery: 64 kWj
Range: 385 km (WLTP)

EV, NEWS

MG Cyberster officially launched in Malaysia at RM319,900

SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced the official sale price of the MG Cyberster at the 2024 Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Exhibition (KLIMS).

The battery electric roadster, which made its debut in the country last August, is priced at RM319,900 on-the-road without insurance.

It comes with a vehicle warranty of seven years/150,000 km, an eight-year/180,000 km high-voltage battery warranty, and an eight-year/160,000 km motor drive and motor control unit warranty.

In addition, SAIC Motor Malaysia is also offering a special package that includes one year of unlimited charging with JomCharge and a 7 kW Wallbox charger.

The Cyberster is available in a single variant powered by two electric motors, which together produce a total power output of 503 PS (375 kW) and 725 Nm of torque. This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds.

With a battery capacity of 77 kWh, the Cyberster is said to achieve a range of 446 km on a full charge based on the WLTP cycle.

Charging from 10% to 80% takes 38 minutes using a 150 kW DC fast charger, while a 7 kW AC charger requires approximately 10.5 hours to charge from 10% to full.

In terms of design, the Cyberster features a low and wide silhouette, along with a convertible soft-top roof. The equipment includes 20-inch Jetstream alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and automatic LED headlights with daytime running lights (DRL).

Inside, it boasts sport seats with Alcantara inserts, a Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel, a seven-inch touchscreen, a 10.25-inch instrument panel, two additional seven-inch screens, and a Bose audio system with eight speakers.

For safety, the Cyberster is equipped with the MG Pilot ADAS system, which includes the following features:

  • Front Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Traffic Jam Assistance (TJA)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA)
  • Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
  • Lane Change Assist (LCA)
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
  • Intelligent High Beam Assist

The Cyberster is available in four colours: Dynamic Red, Camden Grey, Inca Yellow, and English White. Dynamic Red and Camden Grey come with black and red interiors, while Inca Yellow and English White feature grey interiors. All colour options are complemented by a black roof.

NEWS

10 exciting cars to see at KLIMS 2024

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In case you missed it, the Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024 is set to open its curtains from December 5 to 11, 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

According to organiser Malaysian Automotive Association (MAA), the event, themed ‘Beyond Mobility’, will feature nearly 70 exhibitors, with an exhibition area covering almost 30,000 square feet across two floors of the MITEC building.

For those planning to attend, here are some of the exciting cars that will make their appearance at the event:

Perodua EMO-II

Undoubtedly, Perodua is set to capture visitors’ attention with their electric concept model, the EMO-II (Electric Mobility Online). The concept car previews the production version of Perodua’s first electric vehicle, which is expected to be launched in the market later this year.

Proton e.MAS 7

Although not officially announced, Proton’s first electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7, is highly likely to make its debut at KLIMS 2024. It will be available with two battery pack options, with an estimated price of RM120,000.

Honda Prelude Concept

Another brand that will undoubtedly attract attention at KLIMS 2024 is Honda. In addition to its latest model lineup, Honda Malaysia has announced that it will also showcase the Prelude Concept, making Malaysia the first country in Asia, besides Japan, to exhibit the hybrid coupe.

Mazda CX-60

For devoted Mazda fans, Bermaz Motor will be showcasing two upcoming SUVs, the CX-60 and CX-80. Built on the SkyActiv Multi Solution Scalable Architecture platform, the former offers petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrain options, with rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive capabilities.

Mazda CX-80

Like the CX-60, the CX-80 also belongs to Mazda’s Large Product group but offers three rows of seating. The powertrain options are similar to the CX-60, featuring inline six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, PHEV, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and AWD or RWD systems.

Toyota Camry

Following its launch in Thailand last October, the ninth-generation Toyota Camry (XV80) will make its debut in Malaysia this week. The D-segment sedan is powered by a 2.5-litre hybrid engine combined with an e-CVT transmission, producing a total system output of 227 PS.

Toyota Corolla Cross

In addition to the Camry, UMW Toyota Motor will also introduce the facelifted version of the Corolla Cross, which has already been open for orders since November. Along with a refreshed exterior design, the SUV will also feature several new enhancements, including an electronic parking brake, Auto Hold, and improved driver-assistance systems.

Nissan Kicks e-Power

As previously reported, the Nissan Kicks e-Power will be available as a fully imported version (CBU) from Thailand, with two variants: VL and VLT. It features a 1.2-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that acts as a generator to charge the battery pack, which in return powers the electric motor on the front axle.

MG Cyberster

Without a doubt, among the standout cars at KLIMS 2024 will be the MG Cyberster, an electric roadster powered by two electric motors, delivering a combined output of 503 PS and 725 Nm. This allows it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds.

GWM Wey 80

Wey is a luxury sub-brand under Great Wall Motor (GWM). While it is still uncertain whether the luxury marque will be officially launched in the local market, it is certainly a possibility if the Wey 80 MPV receives a positive response at the show.

NEWS

MG HS pricing announced – RM129,900 for Standard, RM145,900 for Lux

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SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced the official prices for the C-segment SUV showcased last August, namely the MG HS.

For the Malaysian market, the MG HS will be available in two variants – Standard and Lux – with prices starting from RM129,900 and RM145,900 respectively.

It comes with a vehicle warranty of five years with unlimited mileage, along with a seven-year warranty for the powertrain, also unlimited mileage.

In celebration of MG’s 100th anniversary, SAIC Motor Malaysia is offering an exclusive introductory discount of RM5,000.

In terms of features, the HS is equipped with LED headlamps with DRL, LED taillights, dual exhaust outlets, and 17-inch alloy wheels for the Standard variant, while the Lux variant gets 18-inch ‘Diamond Cut’ wheels.

Also included are sporty touches such as red brake calipers, a rear spoiler, roof rails capable of carrying a load of up to 50 kg, and a Super Sport driving mode.

Customers can choose from four exterior colours, namely Black Pearl, Arctic White, Camden Grey, and Dynamic Red.

Inside, the HS features black leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, and a 10.1-inch infotainment screen with a 360-degree camera, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and the MG iSmart phone connectivity system.

At the rear, there is a cargo space of 463 litres, which can be expanded to 1,287 litres by folding down the back seats. This space is accessible via a powered tailgate.

Powering the HS is a 1.5-litre turbo engine that delivers 162 PS at 5,600 rpm and 250 Nm from 1,700 to 4,400 rpm. This engine is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT).

For safety, the HS is equipped with an Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) under the MG Pilot brand.

Key features include Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking with pedestrian and cyclist detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assistance , as well as Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keeping Assist.

It is also equipped with Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Intelligent High Beam Assist and Door Opening Warning.

EV, NEWS

MG Cyberster now open for booking, price to be under RM350,000

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SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced that bookings are now open for the MG Cyberster, with its estimated price expected to be below RM350,000.

The Cyberster is available in one variant, featuring a dual motor, all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup boasting a total output of 503 PS (375 kW) and 725 Nm of torque. This allows the all-electric roadster to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds.

Equipped with a 77 kWh battery, the Cyberster offers a driving range of 446 km on a full charge based on the WLTP testing standard.

Charging from 10% to 80% takes 38 minutes via a 150 kW DC fast charger. An AC charger of 7 kW, on the other hand, requires approximately 10.5 hours to charge from 10% to full.

Design-wise, the Cyberster features a broad, low-profile silhouette with a retractable soft top. Equipment includes 20-inch Jetstream alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and automatic LED headlights with daytime running lights (DRL).

Inside, there are sporty seats adorned with Alcantara inserts, a Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel, a seven-inch central touchscreen, a 10.25-inch instrument panel, two seven-inch auxiliary screens, and an 8-speaker Bose audio system.

For safety, the Cyberster comes equipped with ADAS under the MG Pilot brand, which includes the following features:

  • Front Collision Warning (FCW)
  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection
  • Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
  • Traffic Jam Assistance (TJA)
  • Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
  • Lane Keeping Assistance (LKA)
  • Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
  • Lane Change Assist (LCA)
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
  • Intelligent High Beam Assist

The Cyberster is available in four colours, namely Dynamic Red, Camden Grey, Inca Yellow, and English White. Dynamic Red and Camden Grey feature black and red interiors, while Inca Yellow and English White come with grey interiors. All colour options are complemented by a black roof.

NEWS

39 MG certified technicians, two of whom are female, complete training program

SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced the successful graduation of its 39 MG certified technicians, who are now equipped to deliver top-notch aftersales service with quality and efficiency.

This milestone significantly enhances customer satisfaction and confidence in MG vehicles across Malaysia.

The rigorous training program, designed for both Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) and Electric Vehicle (EV) technologies was conducted in partnership with a local experienced trainer and academy.

The syllabus and modules were sourced from overseas markets where SAIC operates, ensuring our technicians are well-versed in the latest advancements and standards.

In the past month, SAIC Motor International invited SAIC Motor Malaysia to participate in global training initiatives resulting in the certification of our technicians in advanced models, including the MG4 and ZS EV in Shanghai and the MG5 and MG HS in Thailand.

The hands-on training encompassed practical skills essential for servicing and repairing the most advanced MG vehicles globally.

Among the 39 graduates, two female service advisors have emerged highlighting the critical role of EV technicians as Malaysia witnesses a significant rise in EV adoption.

This specialised training not only focuses on new car model technologies but also prepares participants for future challenges in the automotive landscape.

Looking ahead, SAIC Motor Malaysia said they are committed to sending these technicians for more in-depth specialized training that will cover key areas such as EV and High-Voltage Battery Technology, as well as continuous skill upgrades from Junior Tech to Master Tech.

“Training and service are vital aspects of customer experience, especially as we embrace the rise of electromobility in Malaysia,” said Emory QiFeng, Managing Director of SAIC Motor Malaysia.

“We are dedicated to building a skilled workforce that not only meets but exceeds customer expectations. Our commitment to providing high-quality aftersales support will instill confidence in our customers as they transition to MG’s innovative vehicle lineup,” he added.

NEWS

MG5 fastback sedan launched in Malaysia – RM93,900

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Following its preview last August, the new MG5 has now been officially launched for the local market.

The sedan with a fastback design is available in a single variant with a starting price of RM93,900.

However, in conjunction with MG’s 100th anniversary campaign, SAIC Motor Malaysia is offering a rebate of RM7,000, bringing the price down to RM86,900.

For extra peace of mind, the MG5 comes with an unlimited mileage warranty for five years and a seven-year unlimited mileage warranty for the engine and transmission.

In terms of size, the MG5 is closer to a C-segment sedan, measuring 4,675 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, 1,480 mm in height, and with a wheelbase of 2,680 mm.

However, SAIC Motor Malaysia, the official distributor of the MG brand in the country, says the MG5 will be marketed as a B-segment sedan, making it the largest in its class.

When compared to its closest competitors, such as the Honda City and Toyota Vios, the MG5 boasts a more prominent profile thanks to its sporty fastback coupe design.

Included features comprise LED daytime running lights, a 3D grille, 17-inch Tomahawk alloy wheels, a sunroof, and a ducktail spoiler at the rear.

There are five exterior colours available to choose from, namely Nuclear Yellow, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Camden Grey.

Inside, you will find black leather upholstery with contrasting red stitching, as well as a seven-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25-inch infotainment screen with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Other features include a single-zone air conditioning system with a rear air vent, a PM2.5 air filter, six speakers, three USB charging slots, and a 360-degree surround camera system.

Powering the MG5 is a 1.5-litre four-cylinder DVVT engine that’s good for 114 PS at 6,000 rpm and 150 Nm of torque at 4,500 rpm.

With an iCVT transmission with eight gear ratios driving the front wheels, the MG5 is capable of a fuel consumption figure of 17.5 km/l.

According to SAIC Motor Malaysia, the powertrain has undergone durability testing over a distance of 2.35 million km.

On the safety front, the MG5 is equipped with MG Pilot, which includes Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Collision Warning, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

NEWS

Emory QiFeng is the new managing director of SAIC Motor Malaysia

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SAIC Motor Malaysia has announced the appointment of Mr Emory QiFeng as its new Managing Director.

Emory Qi, who brings with him more than 25 years of experience in the global automotive industry, will lead the company as it continues to expand its footprint in the Malaysian market.

With a career spanning since 1998, Emory Qi has served in various leadership capacities within SAIC-Volkswagen Sales Co., Ltd, where he excelled in Network Planning and Development as well as After-Sales Strategy.

In 2023, he was appointed the Director of Global Business at SAIC Motor International Co., Ltd, where he contributed to the brand’s international growth strategy.

In 2024, Emory Qi joined SAIC Motor Malaysia as Chief Operating Officer, and has now been elevated to the role of Managing Director, where he will oversee all aspects of the company’s operations, including sales, marketing, and product strategy.

Emory Qi commented on his appointment: “It is an honour to step into this new role at SAIC Motor Malaysia during such an exciting time for the company. My focus will be on continuing the momentum we have built in this market, expanding our product offerings, and delivering a superior customer experience. I look forward to working with the talented team here to ensure that SAIC Motor Malaysia remains a key player in the automotive industry.”

NEWS

MG returns to Malaysia with two new models – MG4 and ZS EV, from RM104k

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For those born in the 1990s or earlier, they must have heard of the MG brand. After a while, it has now returned to Malaysia under the Chinese manufacturer, SAIC Motor.

As a sign of the British brand’s return, they have introduced two models to the Malaysian market – MG4 and ZS EV. Both are fully electric models. Let’s take a detailed look at them.

MG4

The MG4 is a hatchback EV with four variants offered for the Malaysian market. Here are the estimated prices:

MG4 Standard: From RM104,000
MG4 Lux: From RM129,000
MG4 Lux Extended Range: From RM149,000
MG4 XPOWER: From RM159,000

Out of the four variants offered, you can choose a battery pack ranging from 51kWh to 77kWh, with a driving range of 350km to 520km per charge.

Here are the technical details of each variant:

The MG4 measures 4,287mm in length, with a wheelbase of 2,705mm. According to MG, the battery in this MG4 is the flattest and thinnest in its class, at only 110mm. This EV has a cargo capacity of 363 liters, which can be expanded to 1,177 liters.

Most notably, it has a 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution and rear-wheel drive. This undoubtedly provides the MG4 with a sporty driving experience.

MG features the MG Pilot safety package, including features such as Front Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Adaptive Cruise Control, Traffic Jam Assistance, Lane Keeping Assistance, and Intelligent High Beam Assist.

Higher-end variants receive additional features such as Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Door Opening Warning, and a 360-degree camera.

MG iSMART is also a standard feature for this model, allowing voice commands to be activated by addressing “Hello MG.” MG iSMART can also start the engine or activate the air conditioning from a distance using a mobile device.

The MG4 comes in seven color options – Volcano Orange, Holborn Blue, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Camden Grey, Black Pearl, Monument Silver, and Racing Green (XPOWER only).

This model is also covered by a seven-year or 150,000km (whichever comes first) warranty, as well as an eight-year or 180,000km battery warranty.

ZS EV

Meanwhile, the ZS EV is an electric model of the ZS SUV. It comes in one variant with an estimated price of RM129,000.

This B-segment SUV will compete with models such as the Chery Omoda E5, Honda HR-V, Proton X50, Mazda CX-3, and Toyota Corolla Cross.

The MG ZS EV is equipped with a 51.1kWh lithium-ion battery that provides a range of 320km. The maximum output is 176PS and 280Nm of torque, sufficient to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 8 seconds. AC charging will take eight hours, while DC charging at 50kW requires 54 minutes.

Standard features of the MG ZS EV include Silverstone LED lights, carbon fiber trim in the cabin, a 7-inch digital instrument display, wireless charging, a panoramic sunroof, and a cargo space of 448 liters expandable to 1,187 liters.

Safety features include Front Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Traffic Jam Assistance, Lane Departure Warning, Lane Keeping Assistance, Blind Spot Detection, and more.

Similar to the MG4, the ZS EV is covered by a similar warranty of seven years or 150,000km, along with an eight-year or 180,000km battery warranty. Color options include Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Monument Silver.

NEWS

MG set to make a comeback in Malaysia

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The iconic British automotive brand Morris Garages, or better known as MG is set to make its return to the Malaysian market through SAIC Motor Malaysia as the official distributor.

No exact dates have been given but according to SAIC Motor Malaysia, the public can expect “the grand unveiling of its latest models in Malaysia soon.”

We also don’t know which models will be offered here but that being said, the newly set up MG Malaysia website showcases three electric models, namely the MG4, ZS EV, and Cyberster.

 

The MG4 is an electric hatchback with dimensions similar to that of the BYD Dolphin.

According to paultan.org, the Thai-market version features a single electric motor producing 170 PS and 250 Nm, with a 51-kWh battery offering a driving range of up to 350 km.

On the other hand, the ZS EV is an SUV equipped with a 51.1-kWh battery providing a driving range of 320 km. It is reported that there is also a 72.6 kWh variant offering a longer range of 440 km.

Meanwhile, the Cyberster is available in three variants in China. The Glamour Edition is equipped with a single electric motor on the rear axle developing 314 PS/475 Nm, and a 64-kWh battery with a range of 501 km.

The Style Edition has a 77-kWh battery with a range of 580 km, while the Pioneer Edition offers a slightly shorter range of 520 km from the same battery. This is mainly due to its twin-motor setup that makes 544 PS and 725 Nm of torque.