The resurrected MG brand has added a second model to its line-up after the upper medium MG6 with the arrival of the supermini-sized MG3.
A good-looking little car, especially when you add the Sport trim to the mid-spec 3Form model, and with more space than many rivals on the inside, the MG3 is powered by a 106hp 1.5-litre petrol engine that emits a high-for-the-sector 136g/km of emissions.
But that’s countered by the very low prices, with even the top-spec 3Style only having a P11D price of £9819, while all models get sports seats and USB/aux audio inputs. The mid-spec 3Form also adds Bluetooth, DAB radio and air-conditioning, while for an additional £250 the Sport pack brings 16-inch alloys, side skirts and a roof spoiler.
To drive, the MG3 handles well and is nimble, although the engine needs to be worked hard. Interior quality is generally better than a car with budget pretentions could be expected to be, but some of the materials are in line with the low price.
A residual value in the low 30% region is very acceptable for an unproven brand, and gives the MG3 a decent start, although the whole-life costs for the even cheaper Dacia Sandero are better.
But that feels like even more of a budget car, and the MG3 is surprisingly competent for the money, if far from able to match the best on quality alone.
