MG is a brand with a rich heritage of making sporty and fun cars, but its latest creation is something different. The MG4 EV XPOWER is an electric hatchback that combines blistering performance, impressive efficiency, and surprising versatility. It is the first truly hot electric hatchback on the market, and it offers a lot of bang for your buck.
What is the MG4 EV XPOWER?
The MG4 EV XPOWER is based on the MG4, a compact hatchback launched in China in 2020 and Europe in 2023. The MG4 is a rear-wheel-drive car that is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with 178 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. It has a sleek design with LED headlights, a large grille, and a sloping roofline.
But the MG4 EV XPOWER is not just an electric version of the MG4. It is a performance-oriented model that features a dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, an adaptive suspension, and a body kit that includes a front splitter, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and a large spoiler. It also has 18-inch alloy wheels with low-profile tires, Brembo brakes, and XPOWER graphics on the doors and hood.
The MG4 EV XPOWER has a 70-kWh battery pack that provides a range of 250 miles on the WLTP cycle. It can be charged from 10% to 80% in 40 minutes using a fast charger. The battery pack also powers two electric motors, one on each axle, that deliver a combined output of 304 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The MG4 EV XPOWER can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and reach a top speed of 124 mph.
How does it drive?
The MG4 EV XPOWER is not just fast on the road. It is also designed to handle rough terrain like a rally car. It has an adaptive suspension that can adjust the ride height and damping according to the driving mode and the surface conditions. It also has an electronic torque vectoring system that can distribute the power between the front and rear wheels and between the left and right wheels to optimize traction and stability.
The MG4 EV XPOWER has four driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, and Rally. The Rally mode activates the maximum power output, lowers the ride height, stiffens the suspension, and enhances the steering response. It also enables launch control for maximum acceleration from standstill.
The MG4 EV XPOWER is fun to drive in any mode, but especially in Rally mode. It delivers brutal acceleration with minimal wheelspin or torque steer thanks to the all-wheel-drive system. It also handles corners with agility and confidence thanks to the torque vectoring system and the well-balanced chassis. The steering is precise and responsive, while the brakes are powerful and progressive.
The MG4 EV XPOWER is not only fast but also smooth and quiet. The electric motors provide instant and linear power delivery without any lag or noise. The suspension absorbs bumps and potholes without compromising stability or comfort. The cabin is well-insulated from wind and road noise, making it a relaxing place to be.
How practical is it?
The MG4 EV XPOWER is not only a performance car but also a practical one. It has a spacious cabin that can accommodate five passengers and their luggage. It has a digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a wireless charging pad, and a panoramic sunroof. It also has advanced safety features such as adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking.
The MG4 EV XPOWER has a generous boot space of 450 liters, which can be expanded to 1,375 liters by folding the rear seats. It also has plenty of storage spaces throughout the cabin for small items. The battery pack does not intrude into the cabin space or compromise the ground clearance.
How much does it cost?
The MG4 EV XPOWER is expected to go on sale in Europe in late 2023 with a starting price of around $40,000. It will compete with other electric hatchbacks such as the Volkswagen ID.3, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Kia EV6. But unlike those cars, the MG4 EV XPOWER will offer a unique combination of performance, versatility, and heritage that will appeal to enthusiasts who want an electric car that can do it all.
The MG4 EV XPOWER is not just another electric car. It is an electric rally car that you can buy.
