Unleash the Power of Innovation: The MG4 XPower Launch
Introducing the much-anticipated MG4 XPower! Get ready to embark on a journey of innovation, performance, and cutting-edge technology. In this article, we’ll delve into the remarkable launch of MG4’s latest powerhouse and what it means for the future. It might not be available in the US just yet, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth looking at.
MG Motor Releases a New Vehicle for 2023
MG is a British automotive marque founded by Cecil Kimber in the 1920s. This British car manufacturer is best known for its open two-seater sports cars, but also produced saloons and coupes, with engines up to three liters in size and 3.5 L in the case of the MBG GT V8. Chinese state-owned automaker SAIC Motor Corporation Limited now owns the marque.
In 2022, the manufacturer released the MG4 EV, a battery electric small family car. It was first released in June 2022, as the MG Mulan, but later renamed to MG4 EV in August 2023. It set a new benchmark for affordability and has been selling like hotcakes.
2023 was also the year when MG Motor decided that the MG4 was due for a significant motor power upgrade. This came in the form of the new MG4 XPower, the first true electric hot hatch that gives traditional internal combustion-powered fast compact cars something to worry about.
The New MG4 XPower
This car is designed to surprise anyone who sits in it with its breathtaking acceleration. To handle the 400+ horsepower and impressive acceleration capabilities, some significant modifications have been made to the MG4 base model.
For the XPower MG4 launch 2023, MG headed to the Goodwood Festival of Speed, a very apt venue for its first public run.
The MG4 XPower is based on the Long Range version of the MG4 but with a substantial motor power upgrade. It uses the same 64kWh battery but with two motors rather than one. At the front, the XPower has a 150kW (201hp) motor, with an additional 150kW (201hp) motor on the rear.
Combined, these two motors give a total of 320kW (429hp) and 600Nm (443lb/ft) of torque. Many consider this an obscene amount of power for such a small hatchback.
However, there is a caveat to achieving such power. Launch power has to be summoned by holding down the brake and accelerator at the same time and then letting go of the brake to take off.
According to MG, the XPower takes just 3.8 seconds to hit 62mph. This figure is comparable with a Tesla Model Y Performance or Ford Mustang Mach-E GT.
In terms of driving range, the 64kWh (61.8kWh net) battery delivers a lowish WLTP range of 239 miles. This isn’t a particularly encouraging figure, but on a fast enough charging device, the XPower’s batteries can be replenished from 10 to 80% in just 35 minutes. With this in mind, topping up every 2-3 hours on a lengthy journey shouldn’t be too bothersome.
What About Appearance?
It’s been described by many, including the manufacturer, as “understated”. First appearances hide the power of the car, with the only real signs that the car is the XPower version being the 18” “Cyclone” allow wheels and orange brake calipers with the model name emblazoned on them.
The brakes have received an upgrade from 300mm to 345mm ventilated discs. MG claims these can bring the car to a complete stop from 62mph in less than 34 meters.
Interior features include front seats covered in Alcantara, a synthetic textile material that has a soft, suede-like microfiber pile that’s noted for its durability. While the driver's seat can be electronically adjusted, the passenger seat has to be adjusted manually.
In the rear of the cabin, there’s ample space for two adults, and while there’s no armrest in the middle, the space is only big enough for a child. Luggage space is reasonable. With the rear seats up there’s 363 liters of space in the rear and with them down, this increases to 1165 liters.
How Does the MG4 XPower Drive?
If practicality and affordability are what you’re looking for in an electric hatchback, you should go for one of the standard MG4 versions. If a top driving experience is more your thing, the XPower should give you what you need.
It’s quicker than a regular car, and the lightest press of the accelerator will get you moving fast. It’s worth mentioning that the launch control is very fierce.
An important feature of this car is the Dynamic Cornering System, which includes locking electronic differentials and Intelligent Motor Control. To the uninitiated, this means it enables torque vectoring, so power can be distributed to individual wheels to improve handling and traction.
Other critical features that help improve the driving experience and overall driving safety include recalibrated springs and dampers, with stiffer anti-roll bars. According to MG, the suspension is 25% stiffer.
The XPower is a little heavier than the original MG4, but this instills you with confidence immediately. It’s also more than 40cm shorter than the Tesla Model 3 and feels very capable of being chucked around bends. The Bridgestone Turanza tires also make it feel very sure-footed, thanks to their excellent grip.
You’ll find the XPower sits comfortably at highway speeds and the decent amount of torque allows you to perform decisive overtake maneuvers, even though the power has been optimized for lower speeds.
Anyone who wants to take their driving more seriously can use the inbuilt software which allows you to displace live lap times and G-force data.
Pricing
We’re pleased to report that the significant extra power and performance don’t come with a massive price tag. In the UK, MG is offering the XPower for £36,495 ($47,000), which is cheaper than a Volkswagen Golf GTI and an Audi RS3.
There are no option packs, other than color choices, so the price is unlikely to be much higher. The car comes with a seven-year, 80,000-mile warranty, including the battery.
At the launch, MG also presented a second model, an Extended Range version with a 77kWh battery for the same price. The extended range is an impressive 323 miles of WLTP range. This model has a 180kW (241hp) rear motor, making it a little quicker than the Long Range, and takes 6.5 seconds to reach 62mph.
Getting Your New MG4 XPower Delivered to Your Door
Here at SGT Auto Transport we’ve been shipping new cars across the United States for many years and have plenty of experience to help when you want to transport the new MG4 XPower to your door.
Speak with our shipping advisors if you want to know more about our shipping services, or check out our website where you’ll find plenty of informative posts and pages.
Our shipping advisors are available at (864) 546-5038 or you can use our Live Chat option.
As lovers of all things car-related, we’d love to help you realize your car ownership dreams.