Here’s what the new MG3 hatchback (also available in hybrid form) will cost in South Africa, with its starting price undercutting that of the locally built VW Polo Vivo…
- New MG hatch to launch from R269 900, undercutting SA-built VW Polo Vivo
- Range to include 5 derivatives, including flagship traditional-hybrid variant
- HEV looks set to launch as South Africa’s most affordable hybrid hatchback
MG Motor officially returned to South Africa towards the end of 2024. Now, the Chinese-backed British brand is poised to expand its local range with the introduction of the latest MG3 hatchback. And, shortly ahead of the local launch, Cars.co.za can confirm pricing.
According to our information, the new MG3 range will comprise 5 derivatives at launch, including a flagship hybrid variant. The local portfolio will kick off with the MG3 1.5 Comfort 5MT, which we understand will be priced from R269 900 (making it the entry point to the marque’s broader range, slotting in R20 000 below the ZS 1.5 Comfort).
That sees this new hatch – which measures 4 113 mm from nose to tail, making it longer than Indian-sourced segment favourites like the Suzuki Swift (3 860 mm), Toyota Starlet (3 990 mm) and Hyundai i20 (3 995 mm), and lengthier than the Volkswagen Polo hatch (4 074 mm), too – marginally undercut the SA-built Volkswagen Polo Vivo (3 972 mm), which currently starts at R271 900.
What engine does the MG3 use?
The entry-level derivative is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine, which delivers 81 kW and 142 Nm to the front axle via a 5-speed manual gearbox. For local buyers who prefer a 2-pedal derivative, the SAIC-owned automaker will market the MG3 1.5 Comfort CVT for R309 900.
In addition, this engine and continuously variable transmission will be offered in the higher-spec MG3 1.5 Luxury CVT, priced at R344 900. The 1.5 Luxury CVT will furthermore be available with a sunroof, pushing the pricetag to R359 900.
What powers the hybrid version?
Finally, the MG3 1.5 HEV Luxury 3DHT will top the local line-up, priced at R469 900. This flagship derivative employs a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine mated to a traditional-hybrid system comprising an electric motor, a 1.83 kWh battery pack and a 3-speed hybrid transmission. The listed fuel consumption is 4.3 L/100 km, while the 0-100 kph sprint takes a claimed 8.0 seconds.
While the combustion engine develops 75 kW and 128 Nm, total system outputs stand at 155 kW and 425 Nm. Based on the price above, the HEV will launch as SA’s most affordable hybrid hatchback, undercutting the Honda Fit 1.5 e.HEV (R544 900) and the admittedly far larger Toyota Corolla Hatch 1.8 Hybrid XS (R552 700) – the only 2 other players in this class – by R75 000 and R82 800, respectively.
Which safety features ship standard?
From what we can tell, all derivatives ship standard with at least 4 airbags (with the hybrid boasting 6), ABS with EBD, stability control and rear parking sensors. The Luxury grade looks set to additionally boast various advanced driver-assistance features (we’re thinking items like lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control and forward-collision warning).
Inside, we expect a 10.25-inch touchscreen and a 7.0-inch driver display to be included. According to MG Motor SA, the luggage compartment can swallow 293 litres. All derivatives ride on 16-inch alloy wheels (wrapped in 195/55 R16 tyres), with only the hybrid ditching a space-saver spare in favour of a tyre-repair kit.
Automatic headlamps, LED daytime running lights, front foglamps and push-button start are standard across the range. The Luxury grade adds LED (as opposed to halogen) headlamps, an automatic high-beam function, rain-sensing wipers, electrically folding side mirrors, 6 speakers (rather than 4), a 360-degree camera system (as opposed to a rear-view camera), keyless entry and micro-fibre leather trim (rather than a polyurethane finish) for the steering wheel.
Of course, the MG3 nameplate is not an entirely unfamiliar one to South Africa, with the 2nd-generation version of this hatchback having launched locally way back in 2014. However, around 2 years later, the brand exited Mzansi.
How much does the new MG3 cost in South Africa?
| DERIVATIVE | PRICE |
| MG3 1.5 Comfort 5MT | R269 900 |
| MG3 1.5 Comfort CVT | R309 900 |
| MG3 1.5 Luxury CVT | R344 900 |
| MG3 1.5 Luxury CVT (sunroof) | R359 900 |
| MG3 1.5 HEV Luxury 3DHT | R469 900 |
From what we understand, the prices above include MG’s 5-year/150 000 km warranty (plus an additional 2-year/50 000 km “introduction offer warranty”) and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan. Expect the hybrid flagship to have additional battery cover as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the starting price for the new MG3 hatchback in South Africa?
A: The new MG3 1.5 Comfort 5MT starts at a price of R269 900, which undercuts the locally built Volkswagen Polo Vivo.
Q: What engine and transmission options are available for the new MG3?
A: The MG3 is offered with a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre petrol engine, available with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. A flagship hybrid model with a 1.5-litre petrol engine and electric motor is also available.
Q: What warranty and service plan are included with the new MG3?
A: We believe all versions of the new MG3 include a 5-year/150 000 km warranty (plus an additional 2-year/50 000 km “introduction offer warranty”) and a 3-year/45 000 km service plan.
