DRIVEN MG gets serious with ID.3 rival

EXCLUSIVE Our first drive proves that MG finally has what it needs to take on the big boys, thanks to decent driving manners and a good range for a very keen price

- Sean Carson

THIS is British brand MG's 'ID.' moment. While the Chinese-owned firm has dabbled with EVS in the past - including the impressive affordable ZS crossover and MG5 estate - this MG4 family hatchback is where the company's push with its next generation of models really begins. That's why, in almost every sense, you can see parallels with Volkswagen's ID.3 - hence this being a crucial car for MG.

For a start, both models are competing in the same sector and aiming for the same buyers: everyone from city dwellers to families who might use the MG4 as a second car, as well as company car drivers keen to cut their Benefit-in-Kind tax bill.

STYLING All MG4s come with 17-inch alloy wheels and LED headlights; Long Range SE trim adds active grille shutters; Trophy Long Range has tinted glass and a rear spoiler

INFOTAINMENT A 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto dominates the dashboard. Physical shortcut buttons avoid you having to scroll through some menus