(L-R): MG Philippines Aftersales Director Ron Brosas, Product and Logistics Manager Glenn Tacardon, MG Philippines President Felix Jiang, and Marketing Director Dax Avenido pose with the new MG G50 Plus – Photo from MG Philippines
MG Philippines unveiled last Tuesday two distinctly different vehicles in the MG3 hatchback and the G50 Plus MPV, both of which may have the potential to be gamechangers or disruptors in their respective segments.
The MG3 looks set to upset the status quo by virtue of its stunning pricing and the availability of hybrid power for its flagship variant.
It boasts a modern aesthetic with a front end that mimics the aggressive visage of the MG GT sedan. It features LED/halogen headlamps, 16-in alloy wheels, and power-folding side mirrors. Inside, the MG3 features faux leather interior with a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a range of entertainment options, highlighted by a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It comes with push-button start/stop, reverse parking sensors, an electric parking brake, four-wheel disc brakes, and a 360-degree-view camera.
The MG3 also comes equipped with MG’s Pilot Advance Driver Assist System. It’s a combination of driver assist and safety systems with features such as Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Pre-Collision Warning, among others.
Under the hood, the MG3 boasts a powerful and efficient 1.5-liter naturally aspirated engine generating 120ps and 150Nm of torque.
The flagship MG3 is a first-in-class Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV). The Hybrid variant further enhances performance with a hybrid electric-fuel powertrain producing an exciting 190ps and 250Nm of torque. The dedicated hybrid engine uses an ultra-efficient 3-speed hybrid automatic transmission.
“We want to introduce people to the world of green mobility with the MG3’s first-in-class HEV option. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone take the first step into driving a fuel-efficient hatchback option,” said MG Philippines President Felix Jiang.
The MG3 is now available in all MG-authorized dealerships nationwide, with the following SRP:
- STD MT – P678,888
- COM CVT – P828,888
- LUX CVT – P898,888
- Hybrid+ CVT – P1,088,888
It’s available in six colors: St. Moritz Blue, Extreme Speed Red, Morning Yellow, Moon White, Meteorite Black, and Blade Silver.
MG G50 Plus
The G50 Plus, meanwhile, is MG’s new strong entry in the highly competitive MPV market with its bang for the buck proposition.
The G50 Plus might seem a tad familiar, as it was previously available locally as the Maxus G50 under AC Motors (now called AC Mobility). Both MG and Maxus are under China’s SAIC Motor. Now badged as an MG, the G50 Plus boasts features typically found in higher-end models, but at a surprisingly affordable price tag. This spacious and versatile MPV offers ample room for families and large groups, along with a generous array of comfort and convenience features.
The G50 Plus exudes sophistication with its premium exterior design elements. Up front, distinctive LED/halogen headlamps and a huge chrome grille endow the G50 Plus with a luxury van swagger. It rolls on stylish 16-inch alloy wheels for the STD and COM while the LUX variant sports 17-inch alloy wheels and adds a roof rail for greater functionality.
Stepping in the G50 Plus allows you to experience unparalleled comfort. The STD and COM models feature an 8-seater configuration with a 2+3+3 layout. The LUX variant, on the other hand, features a faux leather-covered 7-seat configuration highlighted by two captain seats for 2+2+3 seating. It has a 6-speaker 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment with Apple Carplay and Android Auto.
For safety, the G50 Plus offers dual airbags, ABS with EBD, Hill Hold Control (on automatic transmission models), Electronic Stability Program, parking sensors, reverse camera, cruise control, EPB with auto brake hold, and push-button engine start-stop.
The G50 Plus is powered by a 1.5-liter turbochared gasoline engine with 181ps and 280Nm of torque, mated to either a 6-speed automatic or a 7-speed “wet-type” dual-clutch transmission.
“With a luxurious interior and modern design, the MG G50 Plus looks to become a strong contender in the local MPV market, providing Filipinos with a solid value option equipped for families or large groups looking for a top long-drive choice,” said Jiang.
The MG G50 Plus will also be available in the following SRP:
- STD MT – P1,048,888
- COM DCT – P1,188,888
- LUX DCT – P1,288,888
It’s available in five colors: Moon White, Meteorite Black, Blade Silver, Andes Gray, and Water Blue.
