The once-British-now-Chinese MG will premiere locally with its MG4 all-electric hatchback.
While it has been long been reported on already, MG has nevertheless finally officially announced its return to Malaysia. Landing once more over here after disappearing from our shores in the early 2000s, the once-British-now-Chinese marque of Morris Garage will return just in time for its original centenary anniversary this year.
Now touching a little more on the details regarding this return, MG will land locally once more under the distributorship of SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. Unfortunately though, that is about all the concrete information that is to currently be made official regarding its return.
In fact, all that is mentioned in the press release (attached below for those who want to read more marketing fluff regarding this automaker) regarding the pertinent point of its return is that MG ‘anticipates the grand unveiling of its latest models in Malaysia soon’. Handily however, credible rumours regarding this subject have already indicated for its local arrival to occur within the first quarter of this year.
Moreover, it is also firmly believed that the MG4 to be among the first models the automaker plans to launch locally. If pictures of the cars it used in its official Malaysian site isn’t just for illustrative purposes only too, this all-electric Golf-sized hatchback might possibly followed on over here by the ZS EV crossover and even Cyberster roadster!
Detailing a little more on each of those aforementioned models and starting with the MG4 first, this competitor to the BYD Dolphin and Ora Good Cat headlines in global markets with a WLTP-claimed range of up to 520 km on a single charge from its largest-available 77 kWh battery pack. Those who want a bit more punch with their EVs meanwhile will be happy to learn of the existence of the MG4 XPower, which packs a 435 PS/600 Nm dual-motor powertrain that enables a 0-100 km/h sprint in 3.8 seconds.
Before getting anyone’s hopes up too high for a smart #1 BRABUS rival from MG though, it has to be noted that the only powertrain configuration of this MG4 available to our neighbours up north is rather disappointingly a single rear-mounted electric motor paired with a 51 kWh battery pack. This setup yields a significantly more modest power and torque output of 170 PS and 250 Nm respectively, in addition to a less astounding all-electric WLTP-claimed range of just 350 km.
Going further on setting expectations as well, it is worth highlighting that the Cyberster has yet to be officially launched anywhere in the world. And while it may be cool in thinking that MG may pull a Tesla (with their updated Model 3) to use Malaysia as a base for its global premiere, it is unfortunately more likely than not for this scissor-doored all-electric sports car to not ever be arriving officially in any capacity…
As for the MG ZS EV on the other hand, this all-electric mid-sized crossover is currently offered in global markets with an option of a 156 PS and 176 PS front-mounted drive motors that correspond to a battery capacity of 51.1 kWh and 72.6 kWh respectively. The smaller battery (which is incidentally the only option in Thailand) is currently rated to only be capable of 320 km on the WLTP test cycle, while the larger capacity brings that figure up to a more respectable 440 km.
Getting back to the more macro topic of MG’s return to Malaysia, it currently remains to be seen the automaker will be aiming for a fully electric lineup locally. If not, this could open the doors too for the local launch of the ZS HEV, which incidentally holds the title as one of the most exported car from China, with its 85,279 units sold overseas in the first half of 2023 being just below the Shanghai-produced Tesla Model Y.
PRESS RELEASE: Brace yourselves Malaysian drivers, as the British charm of Morris Garages (MG) is about to hit your roads in a celebration of a remarkable century of automotive excellence. As MG marks its 100th-year-young, the anticipation is building for a grand entrance into Malaysia through SAIC Motor Malaysia Sdn. Bhd., promising an automotive experience like no other.
Exciting News for Malaysia
‘Passion Drives’ – a tagline that encapsulates the essence of MG; not only guides the brand but also serves as the DNA for creating and building cutting-edge technology. For a century, MG has crafted vehicles that inspire and ignite the passion for driving. As MG anticipates the grand unveiling of its latest models in Malaysia soon, get ready for a symphony of driving passion that promises to captivate the Malaysian automotive landscape.
A Century of Timeless Excellence: MG’s Racing DNA and British Elegance
Since its inception in England, in 1924, MG has been more than just an automotive brand; it’s been a symbol of youthful excitement, seamlessly blending tradition and innovation. With racing genes embedded in its very core, MG has not only carried the torch of British excellence globally but has etched its name in automotive history, delivering transcendent moments for an entire century.
From the maiden venture of MG 14/28 Super Sports car – a masterpiece crafted by the iconic Cecil Kimber, to the MG T-Series in the 1930s and the revolutionary MGB in the 1960s, MG has consistently pushed boundaries, evolving with the times. In the 21st century, MG has embraced cutting-edge technology and sustainability with new high performance electric models (EV), all while maintaining its racing DNA, creating a legacy that stands as a testament to its commitment to quality and performance.
The Fusion of Tradition and Innovation: MG’s Global Triumph with SAIC Motor
Behind MG’s success stands its dynamic partnership with SAIC Motor, China’s largest automotive manufacturer, ranked 84th in 2023 on the latest Fortune Global 500 company listing. The synergy between British heritage and Chinese innovation has not only preserved MG’s legacy but has propelled it to new heights. With a global presence in over 90 countries and an impressive volume of 800,000 units in 2023, the MG brand continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. The combination of British flair and Chinese ingenuity has proven to be an unbeatable formula, reinforcing MG’s position as an automotive catalyst.
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Stay tuned for the thrill, fun-to-drive, and performance that only MG can deliver. The allure of MG’s youthful charm, and technological innovation is about to redefine your driving experience. Watch this space for more details on launch dates and the exclusive opportunity to test drive these exceptional MG models. Get ready to embrace the charisma of British motoring at its finest, as MG makes its mark on Malaysian roads.
Official website in Malaysia: www.mgmalaysia.com
Official social media accounts in Malaysia: @MGmotorMY
