MG 3 buyer’s guide

Brit supermini can be a bargain – if you buy the right one

MG was founded in 1924 and focused largely on sports cars for its first 60 or so years, before closing in 1980. After that the firm was owned by British Aerospace, BMW, and Rover, during which time it variously produced hot versions of the Rover 25, 45 and 75, plus the MGF roadster.

After MG Rover’s demise the MG brand returned under Chinese ownership, and the focus since then has been on hatches and SUVs, with the MG3 supermini being the best seller. It’s neatly styled and decent to drive, plus it offered strong value when new. But how does it stack up second-hand?

History

THE first MG3s were delivered in October 2013 and came with one engine, a 105bhp 1.5-litre non-turbo unit, driving the front wheels via a five-speed manual gearbox. Buyers could choose from 3Time, 3Form, 3Form Sport and 3Style trims, the latter topping the range and priced at £9,999; the cheapest MG3s cost £8,399.

Revisions in November 2015 brought lower CO2 emissions (124g/km instead of 136g/km) and more colour options, before a more heavily revised MG3 was launched in September 2018. This had a revamped look inside and out, new trim levels (Explore, Excite and Exclusive) and extra equipment, including standard Bluetooth, and an eightinch touchscreen for Excite and Exclusive editions. A range-topping Exclusive Nav has just been launched with standard sat-nav.

Which one?

THERE are no choices when it comes to mechanical specification, but the MG3 had an array of personalisation options, such as two-tone paint, plus different wheels and decals. The only other options were leather trim and upgraded infotainment; both are worth having – but they were offered only on range-topping models.

Spartan entry-level MG3s are best avoided; powered windows and a CD player are the only notable pieces of standard kit. The 3Form adds air-con, a DAB radio, Bluetooth, remote central locking, a leather steering wheel and electrically adjustable heated door mirrors. The 3Form Sport features alloy wheels and a bodykit, while the 3Style adds rear parking sensors, cruise control, plus automatic lights and wipers.

Alternatives

THE Vauxhall Corsa is more sophisticated, plentiful and brings a wider model range and dealer network, but prices aren’t so keen. The same is true for the Ford Fiesta, which is class-leading when it comes to dynamic ability, while the Renault Clio and Peugeot 208 provide tough competition, too.

Don’t overlook the SEAT Ibiza and Skoda Fabia, which come with some excellent engines and transmissions; if your budget is more generous you could also consider a Volkswagen Polo, which is closely related to the SEAT and Skoda. Also look at the Toyota Yaris and Mazda 2; the latter is especially enjoyable to drive and features a very highquality interior. The Hyundai i20, Kia Rio, Suzuki Swift and Dacia Sandero are all worth a look, especially for their value.

Verdict

THE MG3 isn’t that easy to recommend as a new car because of its narrow range, sharp depreciation and the fact it’s outclassed in many areas by rivals. But low prices mean this neatly styled supermini can make more sense as a used buy, although some consideration must still be given to the lack of a diesel engine or auto box, while the petrol engine is hardly the most efficient.

But reliability issues aren’t unknown, while the strength of rivals also count against the 3. Plus looking at the car’s Driver Power reports over the years indicate it isn’t aging as well as might be hoped. So while on paper you get a lot of car for your money, the reality isn’t necessarily as impressive.