Full-hybrid powertrains were common in compact and larger models, but this decade, they have filtered down further to the B-segment. The MG3 Hybrid+ is among several small cars now available in the UK, which democratise the fuel-sipping technology.
Recently, we had a chance to spend some time with the hybrid supermini in a global specification, and assess its styling, comfort, quality, and features.
Design
The MG3 Hybrid+ features a sporty exterior that gives it a confident presence despite its compact dimensions. The low, sloping bonnet lends the car a sleek profile, while the large front grille visually emphasises its width.
The broad front bumper, with its C-shaped outer elements, adds to the car’s dynamic character, and the swept-back headlamps give it a sharp, purposeful look.
In profile, the slim mirrors and glasshouse, the sharply rising beltline, and the interplay of crisp creases along the doors give the car a more sophisticated appearance than the segment norm. The 16-inch five-spoke alloy wheels suit the MG3’s sporty intent well, but they don’t fill the wheel arches.
At the rear, the bumper mirrors the front with C-shaped corner elements and a diffuser-style insert in the lower section. The darkened tail lamps and steeply raked rear windscreen further reinforce the car’s sporty stance and give the MG3 a more planted, modern look.
Interior
The MG3 Hybrid+ has a contemporary yet practical interior that looks well-organised. The sleek dashboard meets the front door panels cleanly and carries two free-standing displays: a 7-inch HD digital instrument cluster and a 10.25-inch HD touchscreen infotainment system.
The conventionally placed gear selector, parking brake, controls for the multimedia and HVAC, and the availability of buttons and switches make the car easy to use. That said, we found it a little strange that MG has used buttons instead of a knob for reducing and increasing speaker volume.
Experience in the MG3 Hybrid+
Getting into the MG3 Hybrid, I immediately felt the driving position is tight for my height as a six-footer. The driver’s seat feels acceptable rather than truly comfortable, and the steering wheel adjustment does not come up enough.
When I brake, my knees and thighs can contact the steering wheel, and the cabin feels better suited to shorter drivers. I still had a good amount of headroom, and under-thigh support felt acceptable for a car of this size. The front seats also offer decent side bolstering, and the adjustable headrests add flexibility.
In the cabin, I noticed a glossy white trim element around the drive selector dial that adds some visual lift. The infotainment screen size felt well judged for the car, but the touchscreen response wasn’t all that quick.
There are physical buttons for audio, though they felt average to use rather than particularly tactile or premium. Visibility from the front seat felt fine.
Moving to the rear with the front seat set for a six-foot driver, the rear seat felt largely unusable for adult passengers. My knees hit the front seatback, and overall space feels limited. Headroom in the rear remained acceptable, and my feet could slide under the driver’s seat, which helped slightly.
That said, I could not slide my feet under the front passenger seat due to components mounted underneath. The rear area feels best suited to children. I also noticed rear AC vents, adjustable headrests, USB port, and a small map pocket, which makes the space quite practical for shorter occupants.
Specifications
The MG3 Hybrid+ features a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, a three-speed automatic transmission, an electric motor, a generator motor, and a 1.83 kWh NCM battery pack.
The engine produces 75 kW (101 bhp) and 128 Nm (94 lb.-ft.) of torque, while the traction motor develops 100 kW (134 bhp) and 250 Nm (184 lb.-ft.) of torque.
MG states 143 kW (192 bhp) as the system power and 425 Nm (313 lb.-ft.) as the system torque, which allows the hybrid supermini to accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph (0 to 62 mph) in 8.0 seconds and reach a top speed of 170 km/h (106 mph). According to WLTP, the car’s combined fuel economy is 22.73 km/l (64.2 mpg).
Price
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The MG3 Hybrid+ is available in the UK in SE and Trophy trims, priced at GBP 19,245 and GBP 21,245, respectively. It competes with the likes of the Toyota Yaris Hybrid and Renault Clio Hybrid.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
