MG MG3 vs Volkswagen Passat

What's the difference?

VS
MG MG3
MG MG3

$12,888 - $27,999

2024 price

Volkswagen Passat
Volkswagen Passat

$17,950 - $52,990

2023 price

Summary

2024 MG MG3
2023 Volkswagen Passat
Safety Rating

Engine Type
Inline 4, 1.5L

Turbo 4, 2.0L
Fuel Type
Unleaded Petrol

Premium Unleaded Petrol
Fuel Efficiency
6.0L/100km (combined)

8.1L/100km (combined)
Seating
5

5
Dislikes
  • Underwhelming drivetrain
  • Noisy on the open road
  • Price jump means now less tempting

  • Classic Euro seats ... aka hard on the backside
  • Missing some charging ports in rear
  • Expensive servicing costs
2024 MG MG3 Summary

A number of established small cars are becoming more expensive and less popular. The Toyota Yaris, Mazda2 and Suzuki Swift were once the go-to first car, but now start at around $25,000.

This repositioning was great for MG and its sub-$20,000 MG3, which has spent much of the last few years as Australia's most popular light car. It’s hard to deny a low price will open many wallets.

But now in its new generation, the MG3 is thousands of dollars more expensive than before, starting in the mid-$20K range and headed even further up with a new hybrid drivetrain option. We jump in the base petrol Excite to find out if the value is still there for this British-branded, Chinese-built hatchback.

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2023 Volkswagen Passat Summary

I'm calling it - the Volkswagen Passat is the forgotten hero of station wagons.

It's surprisingly large while retaining the creature comforts and understated styling of old-world glamour.

Then enters the R-Line. A badge that diehard Volkswagen enthusiasts know is synonymous with sporty performance and handling.

However, it can be overlooked for its more affordable rivals, the Mazda6 and Skoda Octavia wagons.

But does affordability take it out of the running for the family market? Or is this the answer for the drivers who don't want to compromise on performance but still have a kid (or three) to throw in the back?

I've been hauling my little family of three around town this week to see what the big blue wagon could do.

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Deep dive comparison

2024 MG MG3 2023 Volkswagen Passat

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