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electric, MG, Motoring, Sports saloon and hatches

Stylish coupe takes on the supercars

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The MG4 XPower

MG4 XPower

By Bill McCarthy

The name MG conjures up many images. And in its centenary in 2023, the iconic and desirable sports cars took on the best in the world.

Once a prestigious British marque, it has moved through to its association and then demise with MG Rover, its rebirth under Chinese owners SAIC as a budget brand and now again producing quality cars and a model to take on the world.

The fastest growing brand and hoovering up various awards, its latest EV, the MG4 is an excellent electric car, but the X Power version is just bonkers.

It has performance that puts in the same territory as supercars like Porsche with features like launch control, track mode display and four-wheel drive. MG says is the first of the next generation of high-performance hatchbacks – and let’s not forget that seven-year warranty, providing extra peace of mind.

Just imagine, an electric car, with electrifying performance and all for under £37k.

Already a slick and stylish vehicle with its its sharp angular profile, featuring a twin aero rear spoiler, this sportier version adds  18 inch alloy wheels, orange ‘XPOWER’ brake callipers and polished trim accents.

A new innovation is Dynamic Cornering Control System which features a locking electronic differential for maximum traction and outstanding composure in a wide range of driving condition

It looks, sporty, in an understated way, but delivers enormous grunt, from the huge 435PS and 600 Nm of torque available to rocket the car to 60mph in just 3.7 seconds.

The all-wheel drive system enhances traction, stability, and safety with active braking on the inside wheels, while launch control, usually found on the likes of Porsche, is supposed to deliver enhanced  performance.

However, the car is quick enough without the counter intuitive feeling of revving the car while holding the brakes a the same time before releasing the brake for launch.

The floating 10.25″ colour touchscreen also displays the track mode data, which includes vehicle performance analysis, power distribution, speed/time, G-Force, steering angle, and throttle.

The powerful brakes also bring the car to halt from 62 in just 33.9 metres, give the game away.

The interior is just as impressive, with a premium feel and soft-touch finish that belies its low price tag. The black fabric upholstery adds to the premium feel. There is decent headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers.

The touchscreen is the dominant feature of the minimalist layout. It comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. There is also a configurable seven-inch driver display that provides real-time information.

The rotary gear selector sits on a floating central console, which also houses a wireless charging pad. The boot space is decent with 363 litres available, and it increases to a decent 1,177 litres with the split rear seats folded down.

Like all MGs it is packed with standard equipment, including 360 degree parking camera, sat nav, heated front seats and steering wheel and mobile phone Bluetooth key.

The car not only looks good but also drives well. It’s well balanced through the centrally placed, slim battery and all-wheel drive provides exceptional handling, making it feel safe and secure even on twisting country lanes at higher speeds.

The 64kWh battery is also capable of recharging at up to 135kW, meaning a charge time of only 35 minutes from 10 per cent-80 per cent using a 150kW DC rapid charger.

Safety is a key feature and the car has been awarded the full five stars in the Euro NCAP safety ratings and offers a host of safety features including a range of airbags and stability control, with MG Pilot advanced driver assistance as standard on all models.

Factfile

  • MG4 EV X power
  • Price: £36,495
  • Mechanical: 435PS Twin electric motor all wheels rear wheels via single speed transmission
  • Max speed: 100mph
  • 0-62mph: 3.7 seconds
  • Range: 281 miles
  • CO2 emissions: 0g/km
  • BiK rating: 2%
  • Warranty: 7yrs/80,000 miles
Crossover, electric, Motors

Subaru Solterra

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Impressive EV eases range anxiety

By Bill McCarthy

Subaru is famous for its rugged off-roaders, (and its iconic rally car the Impreza WRX) but now it too has joined the electric revolution with the Solterra, a brand new SUV conceived in collaboration with Toyota. 

Collaboration is becoming more and more common as firms seek to cut costs, but also maximise technology, which, errr, cuts costs. In this case Subaru’s outstanding all-wheel-drive technology and Toyota’s tried and tested vehicle electrification technology.

Great, but the first question many ask about electric cars is: what is the range?

Pretty good it turned out with up to 289 miles according to WLTP figures and the ability to reach up to 80 per cent charge in around 30 minutes. A big tick on the range anxiety factor as that figure seemed pretty close, in admittedly good electric vehicle driving conditions.

It looks good, sitting high off the ground and featuring smart 20″ alloy wheels on this Touring model, and twin ducktail spoilers and lower diffusers enhance its aerodynamic performance and economy. A 210mm ground clearance means that Subaru’s legendary off-road capability can be tested to the full.

There are just two trim levels,  Limited and Touring and although not cheap, both are packed with standard equipment like alloy wheels, heated steering wheel and seats, plus what seems a necessity as cars get bigger,  a 360-degree parking camera, a digital rear-view mirror. Limited starts from £52,495., but upgrade to the touring at £55,495k and you can add panoramic sunroof, Harman Kardon sound system and wireless smartphone charging. 

Both feature adaptive LED headlights, auto wipers, privacy glass, and keyless entry to name just a few. The Touring spec brings larger, 20-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, wireless smartphone charging, a panoramic glass.

So how does it shape up:

  • Powertrain: Dual 60kW motors are powered by  71.4kWh battery, driving all wheels via automatic transmission to deliver smooth power delivery. This results in a more consistent and impressive performance. It also includes a heat pump to efficiently warm the battery. 
  • Driving Modes: Offering multiple driving modes  which are pretty self-explanatory are  ECO, NORMAL, and POWER depending on driver mood while a rotary shifter controls the transmission. The standard permanent all-wheel drive ensures excellent traction and control in various driving conditions.
  • Interior: A seven-inch top-mounted digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with an advanced design controls major functions like connectivity, navigation and infotainment while the Driver Monitor System, allows for personalised settings. Other controls are logically laid out and easy to use and the cabin is spacious with good head and legroom. There are also four USB ports, two at the front and two at the rear, making it convenient to charge devices for all passengers.
  • On the road: Like all electric cars, acceleration is rapid, and this large SUV has plenty of pace, hitting 60mph in just under seven seconds. Ride comfort is good but handling is not the strong point with off-roader and while not agile, it feels solid and all planted with only a hint of body roll on corners.
  • Boot Storage: The 441 litre boot, accessed via a powered tailgate is cavernous when the rear seats are folded and there is an extra 10 litres of storage space under the floor for the likes of power cables.
  • Pricing and Appeal: While it may not be the cheapest 4WD electric vehicle it’s certainly competitive in its class and offers a balance between affordability and high end features and could broaden Subaru’s appeal to a wider audience.

Factfile

Subaru Solterra Touring EV

Price: £55,495

Mechanical: 218PS, 160kW twin-motors, 71.4kWh battery, driving all wheels via automatic transmission

Max Speed: 100mph

0-62mph: 6.9 secs

Range: 289 miles

Insurance Group: 47

C02 emissions: Zero

Bik rating: 2%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles, 8yrs/100,000 battery

Rating: ****

electric, MPV, Volkswagen

Volkswagen ID Buzz

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VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz

Fun and funky with the wow factor

By Bill McCarthy

Fun, funky, desirable and quirky. Yes, we are talking about the legendary VW Campervan. For decades a showstopper after various customisations and additions, it now has a rival, from its own stable.Subscribe to our daily newsletter!Sign Up

The all electric ID Buzz is the new kid on the block and I can say without any doubt, it is the vehicle that has attracted the most attention of any vehicle I have driven recently. It offers a short and long wheel base version and the cargo van version.

It takes all of the campervan personality and adds something even more funky with eye-catching styling and, depending on your point of view, outrageous colour combinations.

It looks great, the design reminiscent of the classic VW Microbus, offers great performance and will always attract attention. However, it is not cheap, this model had a price tag of over £60k. Campervan types will be delighted with the use of recycled synthetic material and leather-free interior in addition to the all-electric powertrain

It does not have the same level of practicality as the campers, although it can be customised and it comes with a bed-length base to pop a mattress on for an overnight stay. Basic yes, but on a quality campsite with good facilities, not a problem, and there’s always the prospect of McDonald’s for breakfast.

Design: Not too much to say here, if you don’t have an idea of what a camper looks like, then you must have been living in a cave. It’s a modernised take on the classic design but adds LED lighting technology front and rear and smart alloys

Interior and technology: Lots of funky stuff here with the accelerator and brake pedal featuring the pause and play signs seen on videos. They are however slippery when wet, so caution is needed. It also features heated front seats, multifunction steering wheel, ambient lighting, and infotainment system with the centrepiece with a 10-inch colour touch screen, which allows app connection, smartphone connectivity and controls infotainment and navigation.

VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz
VW ID Buzz

Powertrain and transmission: The Buzz is powered by a 159Kw motor fed by a 77kWh lithium-ion battery, delivering decent performance. While the top speed of 90 mph and 0-62 mph time of 10.2 seconds may not make it rapid, it’s quite reasonable for everyday commuting and city driving. The direct-drive single-speed gearbox and rear-wheel drive configuration should provide a smooth and responsive driving experience.

Range and charging: Range anxiety is always there with electric vehicles, but a range of 255 miles on a single charge, (according to WLTP figures), is respectable. The energy consumption figures are also quite efficient. The 30-minute charging time for 50-80 per cent capacity using a 170kW rapid charger makes it convenient for longer journeys with quick pit stops.

Practicality: It is a proper five-seater with a 40/60 split bench seat, which can be folded down completely or split and moved backwards or forwards. Fold them flat and a cavernous 2,205 litres is available.

Safety and Technology: The vehicle comes with a range of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, lane assist, and a rear-view camera, plus  ‘Car2X’ which flags up hazards in the vicinity.

The Buzz undoubtedly has the wow factor, a successful EV with a competitive range and charging capability. It is packed with hi-tech features offers good levels of comfort and is of course hugely practical. It is pricey though.

Factfile

  • ID Buzz Style SWB 204PS 77kWh Pro
  • Price: £62,844
  • Mechanical: 205bhp, 150Kw electric motor driving rear wheels via single speed transmission
  • Max Speed: 99 mph
  • 0-62mph:10.2 seconds
  • Range: 255 miles
  • Insurance Group: 32
  • C02 emissions: 0g/km
  • Warranty: 3yrs/100,000 miles
electric, Motoring, Peugeot, SUV

Peugeot e-2008

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Electric SUV still feels like a winner

By Bill McCarthy

Peugeot’s compact e-2008 SUV has continued the firm’s electric revolution, with a facelift and an increase in power. The single electric motor, mated with a 50kWh battery now and a WLTP tested range of 251 miles.

There have been other tweaks and its bold, angular styling and extended grille are finished in gloss black on Active models, while Allure, tested here, and GT trims feature a body-coloured grille design. That is flanked by smart headlight clusters and flared air scoops below.

 The rear as well has an eye-catching look with a full width light bar housing the ‘cat’s claw’ style rear lights. 

Key e-2008 points include:

  • Electric Powertrain: The e-2008 features a single electric motor paired with a 50kWh battery. The power output has been increased to 156hp, providing improved performance.
  • Range: It offers a WLTP-tested range of 251 miles on a single charge, making it suitable for everyday use and longer journeys.
  • Exterior Styling: The SUV has bold, angular styling with an extended grille. Active models have a gloss black finish on the grille, while Allure and GT trims feature a body-colored grille design. The rear also features an eye-catching full-width light bar with distinctive ‘cat’s claw’ style rear lights.
  • Interior: Inside the cabin, there is a feeling of spaciousness and ample natural light due to the generous glass surfaces. The interior is of high quality, with soft-touch finishes and a sculpted dashboard. The e-2008 i-Cockpit has been updated with a new design for the 10-inch digital instrument cluster, and GT versions offer a 3D display. The layout and color of the display can be customized to the driver’s preferences.
  • Infotainment: The central screen includes a large digital touchscreen for controlling major functions such as sound, navigation, climate control, and smartphone connectivity. It features ‘piano’ key-style toggle switches and the familiar smaller multi-function steering wheel. Voice recognition is available for various functions, and there’s a smartphone charging plate.
  • Comfort and Space: The e-2008 is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate four adults with reasonable head and legroom. It offers ambient lighting, automatic air conditioning, heated front seats, automatic headlights and wipers, and a high-quality sound system.
  • Performance: While electric motors usually provide instant acceleration, the Peugeot 2008 appears to be slightly sluggish in this regard, taking just over nine seconds to reach 60 mph.
  • Charging: Two types of onboard chargers are available, including a single-phase 7.4kW charger and an optional three-phase 11kW charger. Rapid charging from 0-80% takes 30 minutes with a 100kW charger, or 7 hours 30 minutes with a 7.4kW charger.
  • Handling and Ride: Despite its SUV stance, the e-2008 is described as nimble, with good stability thanks to the underfloor battery position. The ride is slightly firm but comfortable, making it suitable for long-distance cruising.
  • Boot Space: The SUV boasts one of the largest boots in its segment, offering 434 liters of storage space, which expands to 1467 liters when loaded to the roof. It also features a modular split floor for additional storage options.
  • Safety: Peugeot vehicles come equipped with various safety features, including airbags, ABS with EBD, Emergency Braking Assistance, an exterior temperature indicator with ice warning, and blind-spot monitoring.

The e-2008 still offers a compelling package with a blend of style, practicality, and pretty efficient electric power, making it a competitive choice in the SUV market. The claimed electric range was almost achieved in perfect dry, sunny conditions and driving sensibly. but like all electric vehicles at the moment, when lights, wipers and heater are needed, it becomes more of a problem

Factfile

Peugeot e-2008 Allure

Price: £38,350

Mechanical: 156bhp, electric motor driving front wheels via 8-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 93mph

0-62mph: 9.1 seconds

Range (WLTP): 250 miles

Insurance group: 25E

CO2 emissions: 0

BIK rating: 2%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

electric, Manufacturer, Motoring, Toyota

One step beyond for electric Toyota

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Toyota bZ4X

Review by Bill McCarthy

Toyota has been something of a pioneer in the search for the eventual replacement of the internal combustion engine.

It produced the first hybrid with the multi-million-selling Prius and has developed hydrogen powered vehicles, but oddly, this vehicle is the first dip into the all-electric vehicle pool.

The curiously-named  bZ4X, is a  new mid-sized crossover that has come about as part of a collaboration between Toyota and Subaru, bZ meaning beyond zero, while the 4 is the model spec and the X is for crossover.

It comes in three grades, Pure, Motion and Vision and is the first model to feature Toyota’s eTNGA, a modular architecture that can be adapted for different vehicle sizes.

You might think its late entry to the EV market could be a drawback, but Toyota has plenty of experience with battery and motor combos and for those still with range anxiety, a very long drive returned close to 290 miles, against a claimed figure of 317.

Even better, a fast charging facility allows up to 80 per cent charge in just 30 minutes, providing our course you can find one that’s working on our motorway services.

That was for the tested front-wheel drive model, with the all-wheel drive version seeing its range drop substantially.

This model featured a 150kW front-mounted eAxle that produces 201bhp, while the four-wheel drive model has what Toyota calls front and rear 80kW eAxles with a combined output of up to 215bhp.

It has a slippery aerodynamic profile, all creases and angles and smart headlight arrays, a rear spoiler and privacy glass and a full-wide list bar across the rear.

The interior is also impressive and generously kitted out as you would expect from a car with a starting price tag approaching £48k.

The Pure grade features include 18-inch alloy wheels, smart entry and start and a climate control system with remote operation. This model adds various comforts, like heated synthetic leather seats which have power lumbar adjustment

The trick with electric cars these days it to make them look more mainstream, not look like something out of Blade Runner, which used to be the case.

Lt has a fairly minimalist set-up featuring a 12.3-inch multimedia display that controls functions like navigation, infotainment, via a six-speaker audio system and connectivity for smartphone users.

There is a wireless charging facility and it is supplemented by a  seven-inch TFT instrument and information display delivering real-time information to the driver.

On the road, The150 kW electric motor produces 201bhp, enabling 0-62mph acceleration in 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 100mph. Rapid performance and the handling is not bad either, with the low centre f gravity battery adding stability.

One thing I was not keen on was the relatively poor steering lock, making it difficult to manoeuvre in tight spaces.

As a family crossover it is designed for comfort with softish suspension and practicality is a must on this type of vehicle.

The cabin is light and airy and stowage space is good, with boot space of 465 litres available which opens up substantially with the rear seats folded.

Safety equipment is comprehensive and as well as the usual traction, stability and braking assistance, it also features parking assistance, hill-start and downhill assistance and blind spot and driver monitor. 

FAST FACTS

Toyota zB4X Motion 150kW

Price: £49,510

Mechanical: 201ps, 150kW motor driving front wheels via single speed transmission

Max speed: 100mph

0-62mph: 7.5 seconds

Range: 312 miles

Insurance group: 36

CO2 emissions: 0g/km

BiK rating: 2%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

Crossover, electric, Nissan

Ariya takes a leaf out a successful playbook

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Nissan Ariya EV

By Bill McCarthy

It is perhaps fitting that the manufacturer that provided the first fully electric family car in the UK, the Leaf, should produce a second model that once again pushes the technology boundaries.

The Ariya is sleek, stylish, and packed full of advanced technology. It features a streamlined design and a claimed range of up to 330 miles on a single charge, depending on the model. It is not cheap by any means, starting at nearly £44k, but it is competitive in price when you look at the specification.

This all wheel drive version with the optional sport pack comes in at nearly £60k.

There are two trim levels, Advance and Evolve and a choice of two battery sizes, 63kWh and 87kWh and an all-wheel drive e-4orce.

It has joined the Leaf and electrified Townstar on the fleet and features cutting-edge safety kit, including the  ProPILOT Assist system which allows drivers.

A medium-sized crossover or SUV it has striking looks, with a coupe-like profile.

But this is offset by the smart, slim headlights and deep daytime running lights which double up as sweeping indicators, privacy glass and 20-inch alloys with aero covers.

 It also features a rear roof spoiler and hands-free powered tailgate.

It looks good from the outside, but the interior is a quantum leap forward with innovative design, clever practical additions and oceans of room.

This model features heated and cooled front seats with Nappa leather upholstery, heated steering and wheel and unusually, heated rear seats.

The deep pile carpet to the front could have looked gimmicky, but work well, while the powered centre console is a clever and practical addition, opening up more space is it moves backwards. At the touch of a button, there is also a concealed oddments tray that springs from the dash.

There is a real feeling of spaciousness throughout, Nissan describes it as lounge like and they are not wrong. 

The panoramic roof also allows more light to enhance the feeling of spaciousness. Even the rear headroom is good despite the slightly sloping roofline. The design is minimalist but still has a classy feel with twin 12.3 inch digital displays dominating.

One controls infotainment which on this model includes a high-end sound system, smartphone connectivity and navigation while the other gives real time driver information, including how the power is being consumed. It is one of the best for connecting my Android phone, connecting within seconds and many of the controls can be voice operated.

Another clever innovation are the controls which appear to be part of the faux wooden dash. They are push buttons with a haptic touch feedback and add to the elegance.

On the road, as you would expect with EVs, it is rapid off the mark, the car hits 60mph in just under six seconds and while the twin motors provide the all-wheel capability, it is more for traction in poor road conditions than actually going off-road. The e-Pedal also allows the driver to launch, accelerate and decelerate using only the accelerator pedal.

It’s an SUV, so there will be some body roll if you take the corners too quickly, but the central battery position ensures near-equal weight distribution, front and rear. Otherwise, it feels sure-footed and stable and offers a comfortable enough ride.

In practical terms, the boot offers a reduced 408 litres of space on this AWD model losing a full 50 litres to accommodate the all wheel drive, but it can be increased with folding the split car seats.

It’s not cheap, but is literally packed with high-end equipment to give it that premium feel. Losing that much space in the boot and the extra cost also begs the question, do you really need all wheel drive?

FACTFILE

ARIYA e-4ORCE Evolve Sport Pack

Price: £58,590

Mechanical: 242bhp, dual electric motors driving all wheels via a single speed automatic transmission

Max speed: 125mph

0-62mph: 5.7 seconds

Range: 309 (WLTP combined cycle)

Insurance group: 41

CO2 emissions: 0g/km

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

electric, Volvo

Charging towards full electric

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Volvo XC40 Recharge

By Bill McCarthy

VOLVO has gone the Full Monty with electric, with its small XC40 SUV leading the charge, if you pardon the pun. The firm has confirmed it will be an electric-only car manufacturer by 2030 and will roll out several additional electric models in the coming years.

The stylish Recharge is their first 100 per cent electric SUV, offering the usual Volvo refinement, and depending on the model, a claimed range of 261 miles.

They are not cheap, this range starts at £45,750, but Volvo is a premium brand and you do get plenty for your money.

It is a stylish SUV looking very much like non-electric versions, with smart light clusters to front and rear and a choice of striking alloy wheels. It has a sleeker look and the front lights feature the now familiar ‘Thor’s Hammer’ design. It also features a discrete rear spoiler.

Like other electric vehicles, the grille has been blanked out, rendering the car less attractive as a result.

The interior is real premium quality and dominated by the nine-inch tablet style touchscreen and a 12-inch TFT display behind the smart multi-function steering wheel.

The central screen controls major functions and now features Google Maps, navigation, infotainment and smartphone connectivity. There are also a number of apps available.

It has a real high-end feel with leather-style microtech powered seats, soft-touch finish and a minimalist approach to buttons and and dials.

All modelsare well equipped, and standard kit includes two-zone climate control, cruise control, rear parking sensors, electric windows and door mirrors and a host of other goodies.

This model adds 20-inch alloys, Sensus Connect with Premium Sound by Harman Kardon with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround Sound, powered boot, power-adjustable and heated front seats, adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree parking camera.

Like most electric cars, acceleration is instant and the 231bhp on tap from the electric motor powers the car to 60mph in seven seconds. Pretty much hot hatch territory.

https://videopress.com/v/tniEsjNZ?resizeToParent=true&cover=true&preloadContent=metadata&useAverageColor=true

A fairly lengthy road trip put the claimed 256 mile range to the test, as well as recharging availability on the UK roads. On that particular journey, 200 miles might have been achievable.

Hook up though, and it can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent capacity in around half an hour using a 150kW fast charger, if you can find one on the services, otherwise a full hit using the 11kW onboard charger will take eight hours

Despite being an SUV, it sits fairly low to the ground and feels stable, cornering well and good feedback from the well-weighted steering.

https://www.media.volvocars.com/uk/en-gb/media/videos/280083/volvo-xc40-recharge-twin-b-roll-exterior-and-interior-footage-1

In practical terms, it has plenty to offer with the rear seats folding and tumbling to provide maximum stowage space of 1,295 litres.

Safety kit is comprehensive, with City Safety which includes pedestrian, cyclist and large animal detection, and front collision warning with fully automatic emergency braking, including at junctions,.

There is also a host of other technologies, like autonomous emergency braking, pedestrian, animal and cyclist detection and front collision warning are included on this model.

Factfile

Volvo XC40 Recharge Pro

Price:£51,750

Mechanical: 231bhp, electric motor driving with 69 kWh battery driving front wheels via automatic gearbox

Max Speed: 99mph

0-62mph: 7 seconds

Combined MPG: 262 miles

Insurance Group: 0g/km

C02 emissions: 2%

Warranty: 3yrs/60,000 miles

electric, MG, Motors

Electric MG has quality marque

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MG4 EV

By Bill McCarthy

If there was any lingering doubt that MG is back to making quality cars, the MG4 will put that to bed. The new hatchback joins the MG5 EV saloon and MG ZS EV in its assault on the electric market and is arguably the firm’s best car to date.

It is a classy alternative in its segment and offers extremely competitive pricing with models starting from just under £26k and an attractive seven year warranty.

The only thing that could disturb some older drivers is the shape of the steering wheel, which could produce horrible memories of the Austin Allegro owners with its square, so-called Quartic steering wheels.

It certinly looks good, built on the Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) that will underpin a new generation of MGs.

It features rear-wheel drive, 50-50 weight distribution and thin battery technology, which is a form of solid-state battery combined with the thin-film manufacturing processes. The aim is to produce more power and lower manufacturing costs through cheaper materials.

It certainly catches the eye with its sharp angular design, featuring a twin aero rear spoiler, 17-inch stylish alloy wheels and an all-LED rear light design.

The interior is just as impressive, belying the low price tag. It has a premium feel with soft touch finish together with black fabric upholstery. The thin battery frees up space for decent headroom, and legroom for both front and rear is also good.

Dominant in what is a fairly minimalist layout is the 10.25-inch touchscreen that features Apple CarPlayTM and Android AutoTM as standard. In addition, a configurable seven-inch driver display delivers real-time information. There is a decent sound system

The rotary gear selector sits on a kind of floating central console which also houses a wireless charging pad on the range-topper.

This frees up room underneath and between the seats for extra storage. 

Boot space is decent with 363 litres available, increasing to an impressive 1,177 litres  with the split rear seats folded down

All are well equipped with the usual electronic aids, but if you want more toys and are prepared to spend a few grand extra, the Trophy long-range model adds a 360° Parking Camera, Satellite Navigation, Heated Front Seats and Steering Wheel, and Mobile Phone Bluetooth Key.

The MG iSMART app allows you to control many functions of your MG4 EV including charging, checking your vehicle status, finding your nearest charging point, as well as pre-starting the climate control system.

It doesn’t just look good, it drives well and the balanced weight distribution and rear-wheel drive means the car delivers good handling feeling safe and secure even on twisting country lanes.

Like all electric cars, acceleration is brisk, this model hitting 60 mph in just under eight seconds. There is a choice of five driving modes, depending on conditions.

Three specifications include the MG4 EV SE Standard Range, the SE Long Range driven here and the Trophy Long Range.

With battery capacities from 51kWh to 64kWh, the MG4 EV Standard Range is capable of 218 miles on the WLTP cycle, with Long Range SE and Trophy models capable of 281 miles and 270 miles respectively.

However I managed closer to 190 miles, admittedly in difficult and power draining rain and dark conditions for the most part.

As ever, charging away from home can be pot luck. If you drop lucky onto a charger then fine, otherwise you could face a long wait. Charging infrastructure, while improving, is still not good enough, so carefully plan any longer journeys.

The 64kWh battery is also capable of recharging at up to 135kW, meaning a charge time of only 35 minutes from 10% – 80% using a 150kW DC rapid charger.

Safety is a key feature and the car has been awarded the full five stars in the Euro NCAP safety ratings and offers a host of safety features including a range of airbags and stability control, with MG Pilot advanced driver assistance as standard on all models. 

Features include active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Traffic Jam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist with Traffic Sign Recognition, Intelligent High Beam Assist, Adaptive Cruise Control, Driver Attention Alert.

Factfile

MG4 EV SE Long Range

Price: £28,495

Mechanical: 203bhp, 150kW electric motor driving rear wheels via automatic gearbox

Max speed: 100mph

0-62mph: 7.7 seconds

Range: 281 miles

CO2 emissions: 0g/km

Warranty: 7yrs/80,000 miles