SAIC has finally introduced the all-new MG7. The stylish fastback is positioned at the top of the MG range in China, coming with turbocharged petrol engines. It is also the first member of the Black Label Series that is focused on upmarket styling and sportiness. The MG7 is the spiritual successor of the first-gen model (2007-2013), which was an updated version of the Rover 75 (1998-2005). The new generation has nothing to do with its predecessor, since MG designers opted for a more aerodynamic five-door bodystyle instead of the traditional four-door sedan.
Overall, the model looks quite aggressive,
thanks to its muscular body. The front-wheel drive platform is evident from the
proportions, but the low-slung silhouette, the sleek coupe-style roofline, the
frameless windows, the large alloy wheels, and the sculpted body panes
contribute to the upmarket looks. The front end is characterized by the sharp
LED headlights and the large stylized opening on the front bumper flanked by
sporty intakes, similar to the MG Cyberster concept.
The rear end is probably the most
attractive part of the MG7, thanks to the pronounced rear fenders, the
full-width LED taillights, the heavily inclined rear windscreen, the integrated
ducktail spoiler, and the quad exhaust pipes. There is also an active rear wing
with a three-stage deployment similar to the Porsche Panamera. In terms of
footprint, the MG7 measures 4,884 mm long, 1,889 mm wide, and 1,447 mm tall. For a good measure, this positions
it right in between the Audi A5 Sportback and the A7 Sportback.
Inside the five-seater cabin, we find a
typical free-standing digital cockpit that measures 33 inches and integrates
the instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. The dashboard looks
quite modern yet unoriginal, with ambient lighting and fancy textures placing
it closer to the premium segment. Other features include the high-mounted
center tunnel, the panoramic sunroof, and the sporty seats with integrated
headrests.
The MG7 is available in two
different ICE-powered versions, with plug-in hybrid options rumored to follow
next year. The entry-level 300 VTGI is fitted with a turbocharged 1.5-liter
engine producing 183 hp and 300 Nm of torque. Power is sent
to the front axle through a seven-speed DCT automatic gearbox. Those who want
more performance should opt for the pictured 405 VTGI Trophy, coming with a
turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 254 hp and 405 Nm
of torque. The more potent motor is exclusively mated to a nine-speed ZF
automatic gearbox, again sending power to the front axle. The vehicle is also
equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential and an electronically
controlled suspension.
It is not clear if MG plans on exporting
the MG7 to other markets, but chances are its ICE-only versions will remain a
China-only affair, since Europe and North America are mainly focused on
electrification. The model will be locally produced by SAIC MG. Prices will be
announced closer to the market launch which is expected before the end of the
year.
