What's the difference?
The Australian market hasn’t truly revolved around a sedan since I was a kid. These days it’s all about SUVs, and anything low-slung is easy to overlook when it comes to family hauling. Add to that the current fixation on hybrid and electric powertrains, and a mid-size petrol sedan feels almost out of step.
And yet, here’s the MG7.
It’s a mid-size fastback with a turbo-petrol engine and just one trim level. Its sharp styling is matched by an even sharper price, and it doesn’t seem particularly concerned about not fitting the current mould.
It lines up against the Toyota Camry SL, Skoda Octavia Sportline and Hyundai Sonata N Line and raises an interesting question. Is this the sedan comeback nobody saw coming? And could it remind modern families why sedans were once king?
The Toyota Camry is one of the few cars that really needs no introduction. It's been on our shores for 41 years and has proven itself to be steadfastly popular, enough for Toyota to launch a ninth-generation version.
The entry grade Ascent is one of the few 'base-models' still available for the mid-sized sedan segment and offers an upgraded hybrid powertrain and transmission, new tech and a fresh take on its design.
Old fans will love it and in this review we discover if there's something for families to get excited about.
In a world obsessed with SUVs and electric powertrains, a mid-size petrol sedan almost feels rebellious. But the MG7 kind of is. A sleek fastback with a turbocharged engine, a sporty edge and a price that makes you look twice - it’s a compelling combination. There are some drawbacks for families in efficiency and back-seat practicality but it's not a bad offering for those wanting something a bit more fun than an SUV.
Ah, gotta love a sedan that knows its audience and the ninth-gen Toyota Camry Ascent proves once again why it’s a popular choice.
On top of the space and practicality, you get a shiny new design and technology. Overall the Camry Ascent is a well-rounded base-model - what’s not to love?