A 1.83kWh battery gives the 3 enough juice to cover short distances at speeds of up to 50mph with the engine off, but it can also be driven in Series mode – with the engine functioning as a generator – or as a parallel hybrid, where the two power sources work in tandem to give the full 192bhp output. MG has confirmed a pure-petrol option will join the line-up in time.
The firm also said that its engineers in China and Europe have collaborated to ensure the 3’s dynamics are fine-tuned for the requirements of various global markets and that as a result it “offers a refined drive but keeps MG’s ‘fun to drive’ ethos at its core”.
Precise details of its chassis are thin on the ground, but MG said it benefits “from the use of new ultra-high-stiffness components” and that the suspension has been made lighter and tuned to give higher grip.
It also delivers “new highs in refinement and noise suppression”, apparently, courtesy of optimised engine mounts and new sound-absorbing materials throughout the chassis.
The 3’s cabin is an all-out departure from its predecessor, ushering in new ‘floating’ twin screens – a 7.0in driver’s display and a 10.25in infotainment touchscreen – that feature new-look graphics and are more responsive.