Note the charging port in front for the ZS EV. The MG4 has its charging port at the rear on the left side.
PETALING JAYA: Some car brands come and go in Malaysia. Chevrolet, Alfa Romeo and MG Motor spring to mind.
In the case of MG, it wants to have another go at Malaysia. It aims to make a strong comeback in 2024 with two models for a start - the MG4 hatchback and MG ZS EV SUV. Both are pure electric cars.
The iconic British brand is now owned by Chinese state-owned automaker SAIC Motor Corporation Ltd, which will distribute the cars under SAIC Motor Malaysia.
At present, the MG4 and ZS EV have yet to launch but SAIC Motor Malaysia is laying the groundwork for their official arrival in the country.
As part of a phased approach towards the double launch, it released today the specifications and estimated pricing for the two MG models.
The MG4 (left) and ZS have different dashboard layout.
The MG4 comes in four variants and estimated prices are: MG4 Standard at RM104,000; MG4 Lux at RM129,000; MG4 Lux Extended Range at RM149,000; and MG4 XPower at RM159,000.
The ZS EV, a B-segment SUV, will be offered in only one variant with an estimated price of RM129,000.
Members of the media previewed the cars in Kuala Lumpur on Feb 23, while the public will get a chance to check them out during an MG roadshow and dealer showroom events on selected days from Feb 29-March 12 (see table below) .
What's interesting is that electric cars are starting to become more affordable as prices are inching down and closing in on the RM100,000 psychological threshold in the MG4 case. The MG4 is pipped by other Chinese electric cars namely Neta V, which sells for RM100,000 and the BYD Dolphin at RM99,900.
The MG4 and ZS EV are fully imported models and are now available for booking.
According to SAIC Motor Malaysia managing director Steven Du, the company will also consider introducing hybrids and combustion engine models at a latter stage. Local assembly of in-demand models is in the pipeline, he said.
MG4
The MG4 electric hatchback is MG's answer to affordable EV ownership, with the base variant expected to be priced at under RM110,000.
Engineered to optimise battery efficiency, it features a range of battery capacities from 51kWh to 77kWh, translating to a commendable range of 350km to 520km on the WLTP cycle.
The MG4 Xpower, with two electric motors for an all-wheel drive car, is the fastest of the four variants, with a 0-100kph sprint in only 3.8s.
Its design, characterised by a particularly flat battery with a height of just 110mm, facilitates a lower car profile and contributes to its sleek, sporty aesthetics. The MG4 battery is in fact the thinnest in its class.
With a wheelbase of 2,705mm, length of 4,287 mm, a width of 1,836 mm and just 1,504 mm in height, the MG4 is able to seat 5 people comfortably. Luggage capacity is between 363 and 1,177 litres by volume.
The car achieves a balanced 50:50 weight distribution, enhancing handling and enabling precise steering and rapid cornering. The incorporation of rear-wheel drive (all variants except Xpower) further ensures an exhilarating driving experience.
The vehicle is outfitted with MG Pilot, a suite of advanced driver assistance and safety systems, including Front Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, and Adaptive Cruise Control, among others. Certain models add Blind Spot Detection and Lane Change Assist, enhancing safety.
Another highlight is the MG iSMART system, which introduces cutting-edge technology for improved convenience and safety, including remote start and air-conditioning activation via a mobile device, and real-time vehicle information monitoring.
Seven colours will be available namely Volcano Orange, Holborn Blue, Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Camden Grey, Black Pearl, Monument Silver, and an exclusive matte option of Racing Green for the MG4 XPOWER.
In addition, the MG4 Lux and Extended Range are available with a two-tone black roof.
ZS EV
The narrative extends to the MG ZS EV, which sets a new benchmark for electric vehicles with its blend of practicality, innovation, and comfort.
The Lux variant promises a range of 320km with a 51.1kWh Li-Ion battery. The single electric motor in front delivers robust performance with a power output of 130kW/176 PS and 280Nm of torque, enabling a 0-100kph sprint in 8s.
Its design features modernised headlights and a grill-less front end, which houses the charging port.
The interior boasts a carbon fibre-look finish, touchscreen control system, and an all-digital display, among other contemporary amenities.
Safety remains a priority with the inclusion of MG Pilot ADAS features, similar to the MG4.
Four colours will be available namely Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl and Monument Silver.
Both EVs come with a comprehensive warranty package, including 7 years or 150,000km (whichever comes first) on the vehicle and
8 years or 180,000km (whichever comes first) on the battery.
