While much of the excitement coming from MG in the run-up to the Shanghai Auto Show has been around the Cyberster roadster, that car only appeared on video, leaving the MG7 to make its public debut on the stage.
The MG7 still managed to make quite an impact, with its elongated hatchback proportions similar to those of an Audi A7, while its 4,884mm length puts it someway between BMW’s 3 Series and 5 Series saloons.
A 2,778mm wheelbase means plenty of overhangs, especially at the rear where aggressive haunches lead around to a novel rear spoiler. Not only will the spoiler rise at speed – as it did in the A7 – it’s a three-piece unit that will also grow in width as it lifts. When owners open the car, the spoiler will also unfurl and bow by way of a greeting.
The low front end features a bold lattice-work grille flanked by deep air intakes, while the LED headlamps sweep back along the side of the car. An oversized MG Octagon sits just above the grille in front of the bonnet. Five spoke alloys and four exhaust pipes complete the sporty look.
The interior is an example of how well MG can do upmarket, with a nice blend of style and quality and a seamless twin panel stretching across the front of the dash to provide driver instruments and infotainment. There’s a Bose-supplied audio system and a long, opening, full-length glass roof.
Those exhaust pipes at the back reveal that this is a car with petrol, rather than electric, power. There are a choice of two engines: a 2.0-litre turbo with 254bhp and 405Nm of torque or a 1.5 turbo with 183bhp and 300Nm. Drivers can up the excitement with an X-Power button that enhances the engine notes and sharpens steering response.
The sad news is that – without any form of electrification on offer – the MG7 is unlikely to become the brand’s range-topper in the UK. The extra engineering work required for hybrid technology, plus right-hand drive conversion, is unlikely to make it economically viable in Britain.
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