Meet MG's first new performance car in 15 years: Wild MG6 XPower packs 224kW hybrid punch and angry TCR-inspired bodywork

MG has locked in the international arrival and specs of its first true new performance variant under its new SAIC parent company, as well as a revival of the Xpower sub-brand once used for a V8 model under its previous ownership.

The MG6 Xpower utilises a plug-in hybrid drivetrain to achieve surprising outputs of 224kW/480Nm through the combination of the brand’s 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine and an electric motor, both of which drive the front wheels via a 10-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, as also seen in the HS PHEV mid-size SUV. MG claims the XPower will sprint from 0-100km/h in six seconds.

It is a significant upgrade from the 135kW/285Nm 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch available elsewhere in the MG6 range.

The MG6 XPower also has a wild bodykit finished in a signature metallic green, six-piston performance brakes, and entirely redesigned suspension components, although it maintains a tuned version of the standard rear torsion bar.

Elsewhere, the XPower scores bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels clad in Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres, as well as an aggressive carbon spoiler and diffuser. Even the bonnet of the MG6 has intake cutaways, and there are XPower themed light fittings to finish the look.

Inside, there is Alcantara and synthetic leather trim for the seats, centre console, dash claddings and wheel. MG says the design is to celebrate the MG6 entering the TCR Asia series complete with XPower branding.

On the software front, the XPower scores its own brake regeneration modes and sport driving modes. MG claims the sedan will travel up to 70km under electric power on a full charge provided by its 11.1kW lithium-ion battery.

This edition of the MG6 is limited to 100 units a month, and it is set to debut in December at the Hong Kong motor show.

The official line from MG’s Australian division is the MG6 is off the table locally, with the brand’s representatives flagging limited sales opportunities in the sedan space. The MG6 is also not currently built in right-hand drive or at the brand’s Thailand facility from which the Australian-market MG3 hatch and ZS small SUV are sourced. It is one of four new models offered by the brand in its Chinese domestic market wearing the brand’s new design language which is yet to be debuted Down Under.