Australia’s electric car market is changing fast, and one of the biggest disruptors is the MG4 EV — a stylish, practical, and surprisingly affordable electric hatchback that’s making EV ownership accessible to more Aussies than ever before. Priced well below many rivals yet packed with premium features and long-range capability, the MG4 has quickly become one of the most talked-about electric cars of 2025.
In this deep-dive review, we explore what makes the MG4 EV such a standout — from its design and driving dynamics to its tech, safety, and value proposition. Whether you’re new to electric vehicles or upgrading from a petrol hatchback, the MG4 offers a balance of fun, functionality, and affordability that’s hard to beat.
Design and Styling: Modern European Flair Meets Everyday Practicality
The MG4 EV departs from the conservative design language of many budget cars. Built on MG’s new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), it delivers sleek proportions and a confident stance that could easily belong to a far pricier European model. The design feels futuristic yet approachable, with sharp LED lighting, bold front detailing, and a dynamic rear end featuring a distinctive light bar.
The lower centre of gravity (thanks to its battery layout) gives the MG4 an athletic posture, while aerodynamic efficiency is enhanced through a smooth underbody and a carefully sculpted roofline. MG clearly aimed for more than just function — this hatchback makes an impression on city streets or suburban driveways alike.
Inside, the MG4 feels unexpectedly premium for its price point. Clean lines, a minimalist dashboard, and soft-touch materials combine with modern digital displays to create an uncluttered environment. Space utilisation is clever — the flat battery floor opens up ample legroom for passengers, and boot space (363L) is practical enough for weekly groceries or weekend trips.
Performance and Powertrain: Zippy, Silent, and Fun to Drive
MG offers multiple variants of the MG4 EV in Australia, including the Excite, Essence, and Long Range versions. Each model delivers instant electric torque and lively acceleration, making city driving feel smooth and effortless.
- Motor and Power Output: The MG4 Excite and Essence feature a rear-mounted motor producing 150kW and 250Nm of torque. The Long Range variant ups the ante with up to 180kW, making it one of the most powerful EVs in its price bracket.
- Acceleration: The MG4 can sprint from 0–100km/h in around 7 seconds — not quite hot-hatch territory, but quick enough to put a smile on your face.
- Drive Feel: Rear-wheel drive gives the MG4 an engaging balance. The steering is light but precise, and the chassis feels planted even through twisty suburban roads.
MG engineers tuned the suspension for comfort without sacrificing responsiveness. Potholes and uneven roads are handled gracefully, making it ideal for Australian conditions. The silence of the electric drivetrain enhances refinement — no engine vibration, just smooth, uninterrupted motion.
Battery, Range, and Charging: Affordable Doesn’t Mean Compromise
One of the MG4’s biggest selling points is its impressive electric range for the price. Depending on the variant, the MG4’s WLTP-certified range spans from 350km to 530km, covering both urban commuters and longer-distance drivers.
- Battery Options:
- MG4 Excite: 51kWh battery (up to 350km range)
- MG4 Essence: 64kWh battery (up to 435km range)
- MG4 Long Range: 77kWh battery (up to 530km range)
- Charging Speeds:
- AC Charging (Type 2): Up to 11kW
- DC Fast Charging: Up to 135kW, allowing a 10–80% charge in around 30–40 minutes
Home charging via a wallbox takes roughly 8–10 hours, depending on the battery size, making overnight top-ups effortless for most owners. MG also supports vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, allowing drivers to power small appliances — perfect for camping or emergencies.
Interior Comfort and Technology: Smart, Connected, and Minimalist
Step inside the MG4, and you’ll find a cabin that blends simplicity with smart functionality. The layout is driver-focused, with a small steering wheel, floating centre console, and dual screens providing all the essential information.
- Infotainment: A 10.25-inch touchscreen sits at the centre, powered by MG’s latest operating system. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, offering seamless connectivity.
- Driver Display: A 7-inch digital cluster behind the steering wheel shows speed, range, and driver-assist information clearly.
- Comfort: The seats are well-bolstered and supportive, offering good lumbar comfort for long drives. Heated seats and steering wheel options are available on higher trims.
- Practicality: Ample storage bins, cupholders, and wireless charging pads make everyday usability a highlight.
Materials feel thoughtfully chosen for a car in this price range — even though some plastics remain, the overall fit and finish exceed expectations. The MG4’s quiet cabin also enhances the feeling of quality, isolating road noise effectively.
Safety and Driver Assistance: MG4 Raises the Bar for Budget EVs
MG’s commitment to safety shows clearly in the MG4’s comprehensive feature list. All variants come with the brand’s MG Pilot suite — an advanced package of driver-assistance technologies designed to protect occupants and reduce fatigue.
Standard safety features include:
- Adaptive Cruise Control
- Lane Keep Assist
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB)
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Traffic Sign Recognition
- Driver Attention Alert
- 360-Degree Camera (Essence and above)
The MG4 has been awarded a five-star ANCAP safety rating, reinforcing its position as one of the safest affordable EVs on sale. Dual front, side, and curtain airbags are standard, alongside a strong body structure built to absorb impact efficiently.
On the Road: Real-World Driving Impressions
The MG4 EV delivers one of the most balanced driving experiences among electric hatchbacks. Around town, it’s quiet and nimble, making it ideal for city commutes. The instant torque provides strong off-the-line response, while regenerative braking adds efficiency and one-pedal convenience.
On highways, the MG4 remains composed. There’s minimal wind or tyre noise, and the suspension handles expansion joints gracefully. The steering gains weight at higher speeds, giving drivers confidence during long-distance cruising. The rear-wheel-drive setup ensures stability, even on wet roads — a trait uncommon in front-driven rivals.
In corners, the MG4 surprises with agility. It’s not a hot hatch in the traditional sense, but the balanced weight distribution (50:50) and low centre of gravity make it genuinely fun to drive. This sense of connection is rare at this price point and elevates the MG4 from a simple commuter EV to something enthusiasts can enjoy.
Ownership Costs and Running Expenses: EV Savings That Add Up
Owning the MG4 is about more than just buying a cheaper EV — it’s about saving money every kilometre. Electric vehicles naturally cost less to maintain, with fewer moving parts and no oil changes or exhaust systems to worry about.
Estimated annual running costs:
- Charging at home: roughly $5–8 per 100km (depending on electricity rates)
- Servicing intervals: every 24 months or 40,000km
- Warranty: 7 years/unlimited km (vehicle), 8 years (battery)
MG’s long warranty adds peace of mind, especially for first-time EV buyers. Combined with state-based EV rebates and potential registration discounts in certain regions, the MG4’s total ownership cost undercuts many petrol competitors over a five-year period.
Pricing and Variants in Australia
As of late 2025, MG offers the MG4 EV in three main trims in Australia:
- MG4 Excite 51kWh: from around $39,990 drive-away
- MG4 Essence 64kWh: from $45,990 drive-away
- MG4 Long Range 77kWh: from $55,990 drive-away
This pricing places the MG4 among the most affordable long-range EVs in Australia, rivaling models like the BYD Dolphin, Nissan Leaf, and even entry-level Hyundai Kona Electric.
Each variant is well-equipped out of the box, meaning buyers don’t have to stretch their budget for essential features. MG’s value proposition remains one of its strongest selling points.
How the MG4 Compares: Rivals and Alternatives
The electric hatchback segment is growing quickly, but few match the MG4’s combination of price, performance, and practicality.
| Model | Starting Price (AUD) | Range (WLTP) | Drive Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| MG4 EV | $39,990 | 350–530 km | RWD |
| BYD Dolphin | $38,890 | 340–427 km | FWD |
| Nissan Leaf | $50,990 | 270–385 km | FWD |
| Hyundai Kona Electric | $54,000 | 420–490 km | FWD |
| Cupra Born | $59,990 | 511 km | RWD |
The MG4 edges out its rivals with superior driving dynamics (thanks to RWD), better standard equipment, and a broader range of battery options. It also undercuts most competitors on price, making it the value benchmark for electric hatchbacks in Australia.
MG4 EV Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Long range and fast charging support
- Engaging rear-wheel-drive handling
- Stylish design and modern tech
- Low running and maintenance costs
Cons
- Some interior plastics feel budget-grade
- No all-wheel-drive option (yet)
- Infotainment interface can lag occasionally
Verdict: A Game-Changer for Everyday Electric Mobility
The MG4 EV isn’t just an affordable electric hatchback — it’s a statement of how far the EV market has come. By combining impressive range, sharp design, and a fun driving experience at a sub-$40k price, MG has made electric mobility accessible to the mainstream Australian driver.
For those transitioning from petrol to electric, the MG4 offers the right mix of familiarity and innovation. It’s easy to live with, enjoyable to drive, and cheap to own — exactly what everyday Australians need as the shift toward sustainable transport accelerates.
If you’re considering your first EV, or simply want a modern hatchback that delivers big on value, the MG4 deserves a spot at the top of your shortlist.
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