MG3, supercharged?

MG, the Chinese car manufacturer, has ambitious goals to conquer new heights in Europe, plans to sell more than 300,000 units of its models in 2024. Ambition revealed following the launch of the all-new MG3, a small hybrid car deliberately positioned to make its mark in the small city car segment in all European markets. Last year, MG experienced impressive growth on the continent, setting a sales record of 231,684 units, thus doubling last year’s figures. That rapid rise is largely due to strong demand for the electric compact MG4 and petrol versions of the ZS SUV, with the latter establishing itself as the brand’s flagship model, according to Dataforce data cited by Automotive News Europe. The entry of MG into an important segment on a European scale, is a significant step for the brand. Until now, the existing MG3 was limited to the UK market. Pedro Garcia, head of sales strategy in Europe, emphasizes that this new feature will be the main driver that will push MG to 300,000 sales this year.

According to Dataforce, MG was ranked 20th among European brands in 2023, ahead of rivals such as Cupra, Suzuki or even Mini and Mazda! Exceeding 300,000 sales this year, MG may even beat established players like Volvo and Nissan…

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Without telling you anything, MG’s growth can be partially explained its competitive prices. The MG3 Hybrid will be sold at an attractive price of less than €20,000. Pedro Garcia announces that later, MG will introduce an even more affordable gasoline model. We can also tell you that this MG3 runs the risk of undermining well-known rivals such as our dear Renault Clio. 2024 looks like a promising period for MG in Europe. The Chinese brand is establishing itself as a major player in the European automotive market, demonstrating its ability to compete with established brands through competitive products and an attractive pricing strategy. However, the path to success can be blocked by pitfalls such as higher import taxes. Indeed, an ongoing investigation in the European Union aims to determine whether Chinese car manufacturers, including MG, have benefited unfairly from generous state subsidies from the Chinese government.

The results of this investigation, expected in May, may lead to increase in customs rates from 10% to 25% on the import of Chinese cars.

Read also:

• MG3 III: hybrid city car unveiled at the 2024 Geneva Motor Show
• In Geneva, MG unveils its European future with four new products
• Three star electric cars are competing: MG4, Renault Megane E-Tech and Volkswagen ID.3