MG4 EV – In a bold move that’s turning heads across the country, the MG4 EV has officially become Australia’s most affordable electric vehicle – and it’s making waves not just for its price but for what it offers under the hood. At a time when EV adoption is on the rise and the government is offering incentives for cleaner transport options, MG has timed this launch perfectly. But with the aggressive pricing comes a critical question: what are buyers actually getting, and is there a hidden compromise behind the affordability? The MG4 EV is priced from just under $39,000 before on-road costs, placing it significantly lower than most EV rivals on the market. This undercuts not only Tesla’s entry-level offerings but also brands like Hyundai, BYD, and Nissan. It’s a move that aligns with MG’s strategy to dominate the budget-conscious segment of Australia’s rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape. However, buyers are advised to look beyond the headline price. While MG has done well to offer modern styling, decent range, and smart features, there are limitations in terms of variant availability, standard equipment, and warranty coverage. In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the MG4 EV’s features, pricing, pros and cons, and how it compares with other options in the market.
MG4 EV Launches as Cheapest EV – Key Highlights
The MG4 EV has entered the Australian market with a bang. It’s not just the price that’s drawing attention, but a host of practical features and modern design choices.
- Base model price starts from $38,990 (before on-road costs)
- Five-door hatchback with futuristic styling
- Claimed driving range of up to 450km (variant-dependent)
- Multiple variants available: Excite, Essence, Long Range
- Standard features include digital cockpit, LED lights, and Apple CarPlay
- Available in both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations
- Positioned below competitors like Tesla Model 3 and Hyundai Ioniq 5
MG4 EV Pricing Breakdown by Variant
Here’s a closer look at what each MG4 EV variant offers in terms of pricing and key features:
| Variant Name | Drive Type | Battery Size | Range (WLTP) | Acceleration (0–100km/h) | Base Price (AUD) | On-Road Price Est. | Key Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG4 Excite 51 | RWD | 51kWh | 350km | 7.7 seconds | $38,990 | ~$42,000 | Cheapest EV in Australia |
| MG4 Excite 64 | RWD | 64kWh | 435km | 7.2 seconds | $44,990 | ~$48,500 | Better range, still affordable |
| MG4 Essence 64 | RWD | 64kWh | 435km | 7.2 seconds | $47,990 | ~$51,500 | Adds tech and comfort features |
| MG4 Long Range | RWD | 77kWh | 530km | 6.5 seconds | $55,990 | ~$59,800 | Longest range variant available |
| MG4 XPower AWD | AWD | 64kWh | 385km | 3.8 seconds | $59,990 | ~$63,500 | Performance-focused EV |
MG4 EV – Features Offered in Base vs Premium Variants
While the MG4 Excite 51 is the most affordable, higher-end variants offer significantly more in terms of tech, range, and luxury.
Base MG4 Excite 51
The entry-level Excite model cuts some corners to keep pricing low but still offers enough for the average urban driver.
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- 10.25-inch infotainment display
- Android Auto & Apple CarPlay
- Fabric seats
- Adaptive cruise control
- Rear parking sensors with reversing camera
MG4 EV Essence & Long Range
Higher variants come packed with additional premium features ideal for long-distance drivers or those seeking more comfort.
- Wireless phone charging
- Leather-style upholstery
- 360-degree camera
- Heated front seats and steering wheel
- Satellite navigation
- MG Pilot safety suite
- Enhanced driving assistance systems
Range and Charging – What You Need to Know
Range anxiety is a major concern for potential EV buyers. Here’s how the MG4 EV addresses that with its battery and charging setup.
Charging & Battery Performance
- AC charging at up to 11kW standard
- DC fast charging supported up to 135kW (varies by variant)
- 0–80% charge in ~35 minutes on DC fast charger (Long Range)
- Standard home charging takes ~7.5 hours (7kW wall box)
| Variant | Max DC Charging | 0–80% DC Charge Time | Home Charging Time | Real-World Range Est. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excite 51 | 88kW | 38 mins | 7.5 hours | ~300km |
| Excite/Essence 64 | 135kW | 35 mins | 8.5 hours | ~380–410km |
| Long Range 77 | 144kW | 38 mins | 9.5 hours | ~480–500km |
| XPower AWD | 140kW | 36 mins | 8.5 hours | ~360km |
How Does MG4 Compare to Other Budget EVs?
MG4 EV isn’t the only game in town. Here’s how it stacks up against similarly priced rivals in terms of range, price, and power.
MG4 vs Other Entry-Level EVs in Australia
| Model | Starting Price | Range (WLTP) | Power Output | Fast Charging | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG4 Excite 51 | $38,990 | 350km | 125kW | Yes | Cheapest new EV in AU |
| BYD Dolphin | $38,890 | 340km | 70kW | Yes | Slightly cheaper, smaller |
| GWM Ora | $39,990 | 320km | 126kW | Yes | Retro design appeal |
| Nissan Leaf | $50,990 | 270km | 110kW | Yes | Longstanding brand trust |
| Tesla Model 3 RWD | $61,900 | 513km | 208kW | Yes | Most powerful, expensive |
The Hidden Catch – What You Might Miss
While the MG4’s pricing is eye-catching, there are trade-offs that buyers should consider before making a decision.
Key Limitations of MG4 EV
- No spare tyre offered across all variants
- Some interior materials feel budget-grade
- Limited service centre availability in rural areas
- Long wait times for Long Range variants due to high demand
- Rear visibility is poor due to design
Real-World User Experience and Early Reviews
Feedback from early adopters and reviewers has been largely positive, especially for city driving, but some concerns persist.
Positive Owner Feedback
- Excellent value for money
- Surprisingly spacious cabin for a hatchback
- Quiet ride and smooth acceleration
- Easy-to-use infotainment system
Reported Concerns
- Infotainment system occasionally lags
- Lower variant lacks rear air vents
- Battery performance drops in cold climates
Extended Warranty, Service Plans & Roadside Support
MG has positioned the MG4 as an affordable yet secure option for first-time EV buyers through extended coverage.
MG4 Support & Warranty
| Category | Coverage Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Warranty | 7 years / unlimited km |
| Battery Warranty | 7 years / unlimited km |
| Roadside Assistance | 7 years included |
| Service Interval | Every 20,000 km or 12 months |
| Estimated Service Cost | ~$1,300 for first 5 years |
MG has certainly shaken up the Australian EV market with the MG4, offering a budget-friendly option packed with enough features to make it a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers. While it doesn’t quite reach luxury levels of refinement, its blend of practicality, modern design, and affordability makes it a smart entry point into electric mobility for many Australians.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is the MG4 EV the cheapest electric vehicle in Australia?
Yes, as of mid-2025, the MG4 Excite 51 variant is officially the most affordable EV on sale in Australia.
Q2. What is the driving range of the MG4 EV?
The range depends on the variant. The base Excite offers around 350km (WLTP), while the Long Range variant reaches over 500km.
Q3. Does the MG4 support fast charging?
Yes, all MG4 variants support DC fast charging. The charging rate varies by model, with up to 144kW supported on higher variants.
Q4. What are the main competitors to the MG4?
BYD Dolphin, GWM Ora, and Nissan Leaf are the closest competitors in terms of price, while the Tesla Model 3 offers more range and power at a higher cost.
Q5. Are there any cons to buying the MG4?
Yes, despite the low price, there are trade-offs like limited interior quality, no spare tyre, and lower real-world range in cold conditions.
Q6. What colours and trims are available?
The MG4 comes in a variety of colours including White, Blue, Black, Grey, and Orange. Trims differ by variant, with higher models featuring more tech and comfort features.
Q7. Is the MG4 good for long trips?
The Long Range and Essence variants are well-suited for long-distance travel due to better range and faster charging, though the Excite model is best for city driving.
