New MG3 2025: the controversial affordable Chinese city car

The MG3 2025 arrives with a competitive price and insurance offer, though safety concerns continue to spark debate.

The MG3, MG’s most affordable city car, returns to the Spanish market with the new Standard petrol version, offering a price of €13,990 including one year of comprehensive insurance. Despite its attractive cost, the model has not been free from controversy: after undergoing Euro NCAP crash tests, it earned four stars, but a serious fault in the driver seat anchorage has raised safety alarms.

Urban style and modern equipment

Measuring 4.11 meters in length, the MG3 competes with models like the Dacia Sandero, Citroën C3, Hyundai i20, Opel Corsa, and Peugeot 208. Aesthetically, the Standard trim does not include alloy wheels or LED headlights, but it does feature a rearview camera, 7-inch digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch multimedia screen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and various driver assistance systems, enhancing its technological appeal in the urban hatchback segment.

Under the hood, it is powered by a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, delivering 115 hp and 148 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed manual gearbox and front-wheel drive. Performance is adequate for city and highway use: 0–100 km/h in 10.8 seconds, a top speed of 185 km/h, and combined fuel consumption of 6.1 l/100 km, although its environmental label is C, unlike the Hybrid version which has an Eco badge.

Despite the safety warnings, MG continues its aggressive sales strategy with strong promotional offers. The deal includes financing through Santander Consumer Finance and one year of free comprehensive insurance with Mutua Madrileña, with a €600 deductible, making the MG3 an appealing choice for private buyers seeking an affordable, connected urban car.

In conclusion, the MG3 2025 presents itself as an economical and tech-savvy city car, with urban design, modern features, and attractive promotions, though buyers should consider the recent safety concerns and assess whether this combination meets their urban mobility needs.