2023 MG MG4 Essence 64 review - Long-term owner

Multimedia and safety technology: 8/10

The infotainment screen has a lot of different driving options, from the lane-keeping assist function, active cruise adjustment and MG Pilot. FM and digital radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The car will not drive unless the driver seat belt is fastened. The driver is able to adjust most driving functions to suit their driving needs through the infotainment touchscreen, which needs to be a bit more reactive.

Practicality: 9/10

The cars interior is minimalist as most of the controls has to be accessed through the touchscreen. There are a control buttons for the radio volume, air-conditioning on/off only, front and rear window demister. and home screen reset. The front seats are comfortable in this model. In the Essence, the drivers seat has electric adjustment, which in our case is very handy. There are two cup holders and ample storage. The rear seat has 60/40 split rear and the cargo has ample area for storage but no spare wheel.

Driving: 10/10

Driving the MG Essence puts a smile on your face. With rear-wheel drive, 150kW and 250Nm, the MG is very responsive from the start, and to have to change lanes there is always enough response.
One pedal driving is a great option as it saves the wear and tear on the brakes and can add charge back to the main battery.

Running costs: 10/10

The running costs of the MG compared to our last car is like chalk and cheese. I charge the MG on average once a month from home. I run the battery 80% to 20%. The charging takes about 20 hours from a normal domestic power outlet. I get approximately 250km between charging at a cost of approximately $10.
The servicing is every two years at approximately $1200 over a four-year period.
Insurance for the MG was a bit of a challenge to start with as when I bought the car in September not all insurance companies had this model on their books, but it finished ok.

Reliability: 10/10

I have had quite a few new cars over my driving years. Comparing the MG EV to the ICE-powered cars is probably not fair as there is a lot less to have problems with on EVs as they are more electronic than mechanical. But I have been driving this car now for five months and the only complaint I have is the infotainment touchscreen is a bit slow to react.