What's all this about?

The MG3 supermini is being completely overhauled for 2024, and the new model is set to be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show next week. As part of the revamp, the budget alternative to the Toyota Yaris and VW Polo will get a more high-tech hybrid propulsion system, as well as more tech in the cabin.

A hybrid, you say?

Yep. MG is giving the new ‘3’ what it calls a “pure hybrid” system, although quite what that means remains to be seen. There’s no official word yet on whether we’re talking about a mild-hybrid, plug-in hybrid or ‘self-charging’ hybrid, but MG says the car comes with zero-emission driving capability, which would suggest one of the latter. MG just calls it the Hybrid Plus system.

What about the interior tech?

MG hasn’t said all that much about the details, but we know the next-generation MG3 will get twin-display screens comprising a digital instrument cluster and a touchscreen infotainment system. MG hasn’t told us much about the system, but the company is promising access to connected services, plus other infotainment features and some driver assistance technology.

What do we know about the design?

MG has supplied us with some teaser images, showing off the new car’s nose and interior. One shows off more than the other, but even the shot of the bumper reveals some MG4 and Cyberster roadster-inspired design cues in the nose. But while both those cars are electric, the MG3 has had to integrate a front grille for engine cooling.

Inside, the image reveals a more minimalist dashboard than before, with the central touchscreen and digital instrument display. MG has also shown off a rotary gear selector and part-leather upholstery for a more upmarket feel.

Did you say something about Geneva?

We did. It’s coming up next week, for the first time since the coronavirus crisis. Well, sort of. Technically, the Geneva International Motor Show (GIMS), to give it its full name, was held in Qatar, of all places, last year. But now it’s heading back to Palexpo, next to the airport in Geneva, having last been there in 2019.

MG is planning to unveil the new MG3 at its press conference on Monday, February 26, alongside an all-new sister brand called Intelligent Mobility, or IM. As the name suggests, it’s an all-electric brand that will launch with a premium executive saloon called the L6, which is due to be unveiled next to the MG.

So when will this MG3 go on sale?

MG hasn’t exactly said yet, but we’re expecting the new, hybrid-powered MG3 to go on sale at some point in 2024. We’re also expecting it to be slightly more expensive than the existing car, although MG still hasn’t yet confirmed any prices.

James Fossdyke - 21 Feb 2024