The MG4 EV has been a standout in the electric car market, known for delivering a lot of value for the money. The 2026 facelift improves the interior significantly, making it more competitive with rivals like the Volkswagen ID.3. However, these upgrades come at a cost: the starting price now exceeds £30,000. Despite this, it remains a strong contender, especially given its seven-year warranty and engaging driving experience.
What’s Changed: Interior and Trim Levels
MG has revamped the MG4’s interior, taking inspiration from the higher-end MGS5 EV. The dated seven-inch driver’s display and 10.25-inch central touchscreen have been upgraded to a 10.25-inch driver’s screen and a larger 12.8-inch touchscreen with improved software. A key improvement is the return of physical buttons for climate control, a feature many competitors still lack.
The interior also ditches piano black trim for soft-touch materials and carbon-fibre accents, creating a more refined feel. Seats now feature new grey cloth upholstery, while the XPower variant gets upgraded sports seats. These changes address previous criticisms about material quality, but they also contribute to the price increase.
The Rise of Alternatives
The MG4’s success initially stemmed from its affordability. However, the EV market has evolved, with competitors like the Skoda Elroq, Renault 5, Kia EV4, and even MG’s own sibling, the MG4 Urban, offering compelling alternatives. The MG4 Urban emphasizes affordability and interior space, making it a strong choice for those prioritizing practicality.
The Urban is available for under £22,000 with current discounts, making it significantly cheaper than the upgraded MG4. While the Urban lacks some of the premium materials and range of the original, it offers more room for passengers and cargo.
Performance and Range Options
The MG4 now comes in three trim levels: Premium Long Range, Premium Extended Range, and XPower. The Premium Long Range starts at £29,995 (with discounts) and features a 64kWh battery with a range of up to 280 miles and a 188bhp electric motor. The Premium Extended Range increases range to 329 miles with a larger 77kWh battery and a more powerful 241bhp motor, though charging speeds are slightly slower.
For those seeking performance, the XPower variant boasts dual motors producing 429bhp, allowing for a 0-62mph sprint in just 3.8 seconds. However, the range drops to 251 miles.
Is It Still a Good Deal?
Despite the price increase, the MG4 remains competitive. It undercuts rivals like the VW ID.3 and Renault Megane, though not by as much as before. The MG4 Urban offers even greater value for budget-conscious buyers, while the upgraded MG4 provides a more refined driving experience with longer range.
Ultimately, the MG4’s appeal lies in its balance of features, performance, and affordability. While the price has gone up, the improvements justify the cost for many buyers, especially given the seven-year warranty and engaging handling. The choice between the standard MG4 and the more affordable Urban will depend on individual priorities.
