MG4 review - Interior & comfort

​We’ve previously slated MG models for their cheap-feeling interiors which have historically been a hollow of dark and scratchy plastics. While the MG4 isn’t exactly a Rolls Royce, material quality has improved somewhat and the overall design of the interior is more interesting than what you’d find in a Nissan Leaf. If you’re looking for an electric car that feels a bit more plush at this price point, the Renault ZOE gets the same well-built interior as the petrol-powered Clio, with a neat-looking portrait touchscreen.

Particular highlights of the MG4’s cabin include the low-set centre console, which helps the cockpit feel airy, plus the easily accessible storage tray that runs between the front seats. One niggle we have is with the square controls on the steering wheel, which can be a tad finicky to use and take a bit of getting used to. It’s also worth noting that as the car creeps up in price in Extended Range guise, you start to notice the shortfalls of its interior and tech, compared with the Kia Niro EV and Hyundai Kona Electric – both with more premium-feeling interiors.

Infotainment and navigation

As standard, every MG4 comes fitted with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It’s relatively clear and bright, but it isn’t the most responsive unit, and some of the settings come buried deep within a maze of sub-menus.  Entry-level SE models miss out on built-in sat nav, but all MG4s come as standard with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

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All of this is supplemented by a small seven-inch digital instrument cluster, mounted behind the steering wheel. While this is not as configurable as, say, the display in the Kia Niro EV, the MG’s setup still shows several relevant pieces of information such as the current range estimate and readouts for the driver assistance systems.

Equipment

Despite its low price, no version of the MG4 comes sparsely equipped. The SE model has all the majority of buyers will ever need, while the Trophy adds a handful of luxuries and still maintains the car’s affordable price tag – that said, although this is good on paper, none of the car’s tech systems or driving aids truly shine in terms of usability.

One thing worth noting, however, is that the Trophy trim is only available with the Long Range and new Extended Range powertrains – SE cars can be configured with either battery setup. XPower is a spec in its own right, though most of the changes are performance parts such as uprated suspension components and bigger brakes.

Options

To keep the production as well as the buying process simple, there are very few options available to MG4 buyers. Aside from the aforementioned trim levels and powertrain configurations, you can opt from one of several paint colours – white and blue are included in the price, while other shades demand a premium of around £600.