MG’s bouncy new baby arrives in town!

[prev] …you’re in, with the famous MG octagon decorating the steering wheel, rev counter and even the sides of the gear knob. The plastics are a little lacking in quality, with the iPhone cradle being concealed under slightly flimsy dash-top roll shutter. Still, you have to keep in mind the price; it’s not a premium product and some compromises are inevitable. Nevertheless, a proper temperature gauge rather than a warning light would be a welcome addition.

On the road, it’s back to the Mini comparisons, for like that pocket rocket the MG3 is fun, despite lacking overall oomph. Acceleration is certainly not lacklustre, but you have to make good use of the five-speed gearbox (which, on our example, was a little hesitant into top before the car had fully warmed up).

Visibility is much better than many of the MG3’s rivals, the slightly elevated driving position giving a commanding view of what’s around you

It all feels quite sporting – as an MG should – with a satisfyingly rorty exhaust when pushed hard. This is coupled with a quite firm ride, although it handled the bumpy fenland roads around Whaplode Drove pretty well. There’s a lot to smile about with the handling, which is pleasingly dynamic. A competent chassis with a wheel almost in each corner and minimal body overhang pays dividends on bends, and there’s little body roll. The brakes do their job well and are more than capable of bringing this 1.15-tonne car to a quick halt if poked. Visibility is much better than many of the MG3’s rivals, the slightly elevated driving position giving a commanding view of what’s around you.

There’s a lot to like about the MG3; it’s got character and flair yet doesn’t demand you pay for the privilege. Although its competitive price means a few corners have been cut, it does a lot of things very well and will put a smile on the ace of whoever is behind its MG-monogrammed wheel. Its budget tag, low insurance group rating and big choice of personalisation options should make it a winner with younger owners, while interest in its historic British badge might win it older fans too.

VERDICT: 16/20
The MG3’s attractive and pert looks are coupled with a car that’s very entertaining in action and offers great value for money. For its price, it packs a lot of spec and if you want a small car that’s going to stand out from the masses, then this hatch will meet that criteria. Charisma like this at such a low cost could well turn you into an MG enthusiast.

SPECIFICATION
■ MG3 3STYLE
■ Engine: 1498cc, four-cylinder, petrol
■ Power: 106bhp@6000rpm
■ Torque: 137@4750rpm
■ Top speed: 108mph
■ 0-60mph: 10.4secs
■ Fuel economy: 48.7mpg (combined)
■ CO2: 136g/km
■ Insurance group: 4E
■ VED band: E (£130 per year)
■ Price: £9999

MANUFACTURER
www.mg.co.uk

DEALER
WH Brand Ltd, 77 Broadgate, Whaplode Drove, near Spalding, PE12 0TN.
Tel: 01406 330265, www.whbrand.com