MG 3: pros and cons

Morris Garages (MG) has introduced the 3 hatchback as an attractive option for folks looking for a small but capable five-seater hatchback. 

As of this writing, it is the only locally available hybrid-powered subcompact hatchback model. The only other hybrid hatch in the market is the Mazda 3, which belongs to a larger vehicle segment and is offered at a much higher price point compared to the MG. 

Speaking of which, the MG 3 is also reasonably accessible, thanks to its starting price of P678,888.

The question now is, what are the strengths and weaknesses of the MG 3? Let’s find out to help the said model’s prospective buyers. 

Pros

Peppy for its size

The all-new MG 3 is quite peppy for its size. The aforementioned is especially true for its top-spec Hybrid Plus variant, which could generate up to 187 horsepower (hp) and 250 Newton-meters of torque (Nm). With the kind of output it is capable of churning out, the top-of-the-line variant of the 3 is one of the most powerful models in its class. 

Even its lower-spec internal combustion trims have notable engine outputs. The Standard, Comfort, and Luxury all use a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated mill capable of producing 118 hp and 150 Nm of torque. The said output figures place the MG 3 ICE-only models ahead of the 89-hp Honda Brio and the 82-hp Suzuki Swift. 

Lots of creature comforts

Apart from sporting a lively engine, the MG 3 likewise provides loads of creature comforts for its occupants. 

On the model’s higher-spec trims, the 3 utilizes PVC leather upholstery combined with fabric, a manual air-conditioning system with rear vents, and a decent amount of interior storage bins and bottle holders. 

The driver of the MG hatch also gets a lot of tools to work with. It was kitted out with a leather-wrapped multi-function steering wheel, a day and night rearview mirror, and a six-way manually adjustable driver’s seat. 

Brimming with tech

While it is compact, the MG 3 gets a substantially sized 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen on its dashboard. 

The said display is linked to a six-piece speaker set on higher trims. It also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as a number of USB ports. Charging can be done through the said ports, but a 12-volt accessory outlet is also available. The driver, meanwhile, has access to a seven-inch virtual instrument cluster.

On the safety side of things, the MG hatchback likewise comes with several advanced driver-assist features (ADAS). Included in its ADAS kit is a pre-collision system, lane departure alert, a lane watch feature, and lane keep assist. 

Easy to use

The MG 3 is also quite easy to use, even for newbie drivers. 

For instance, parking in tight spots is made a breeze thanks to rear parking sensors and a 360-degree-view camera. Securing the car when not in motion is done simply with its electronic parking brake - a rarity in the subcompact hatch segment. Additionally, it also gets a push-to-start button, rain-sensing wipers, and remote keyless entry.

Visibility during dark driving situations, meanwhile, is ensured by an array of LED lighting fixtures. Plus, the vehicle was equipped with power-folding side mirrors for easier stowage.

Cons

Steering column could use telescopic adjustment

The seats of the MG 3 already offer a good amount of adjustability, but its steering wheel could use a telescopic column. It does have tilt-adjustability as default, but having the ability to alter the steering wheel’s reach may be helpful for folks who are either extremely tall or short. 

Final thoughts

In summary, the MG 3, as it is, provides good value for the money. As established above, it is a peppy car with a decent amount of creature comforts and safety technologies. 

As we always say, however, people who are serious about getting the MG 3 as their next ride should give the model a test drive first. Sure, reading about a car is good for initial research, but some real-life seat time will prove helpful in making a more informed purchase. 

Model	Standard	Comfort	Luxury	Hybrid Plus
Dimensions (mm)	4,055x1,729x1,521
Ground clearance (mm)	132			117
Wheel size	15-inches	16-inches
Lighting system	Halogen	LED
Interior
Material	Fabric		PVC leather and fabric
Amenities	4-way manually adjustable front seats 60:40 split-folding rear seat Polyurethane steering wheel Lever-type parking brake Dial-type manual air-conditioning 2-piece speaker system 12-volt accessory outlet	6-way manually adjustable front seats 60:40 split-folding rear seat Polyurethane steering wheel Electronic parking brake Electronic manual air-conditioning Push-to-start button 4-piece speaker system 12-volt accessory outlet	6-way manually adjustable front seats 60:40 split-folding rear seat Leather steering wheel Electronic parking brake Electronic manual air-conditioning Push-to-start button 6-piece speaker system 12-volt accessory outlet
Instrument cluster	7-inch virtual instrument cluster
Infotainment system	Radio	10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Seating capcity	5
Cargo capacity	241-liters (default)
Powertrain
Engine	1.5-liter inline-4			1.5-liter hybrid
Fuel type	Gasoline
Transmission	5-speed manual	CVT		3-speed hybrid gearbox
Horsepower	118			187
Torque	150 Newton-meters (Nm)			250 Nm
Brakes	Front disc/rear drum	Front and rear disc brakes
Technology
ADAS	-	-	Pre-collision system Lane departure alert Lane watch Lane keep assist
Safety	Dual front airbags Anti-lock braking Stability control ISOFIX Rear parking sensors	Dual front airbags Side airbags Anti-lock braking Stability control Hill-start assist ISOFIX Reverse camera Rear parking sensors Tire pressure monitoring	Dual front airbags Side airbags Side curtain airbags Anti-lock braking Stability control Hill-start assist ISOFIX Reverse camera Rear parking sensors Tire pressure monitoring 360-degree view camera
Security	Engine immobilizer Car alarm
Price	P678,888	P828,888	P898,888	P1,088,888

Also read: 

Check out the MG 3 hatchback’s 6 color options

Here are the PH-spec MG 3's 4 variants

Cabin check: What’s inside the MG 3?