The new MG 3 debuted in China earlier this year. Spy
shots published by Headlightmag have revealed that MG has taken the facelifted
MG 3 to Thailand for local testing.
The new MG 3 features a number exterior changes. At
the front, the facelifted MG 3 looks sportier with reshaped halogen projector
headlamps with LED DRLs, larger radiator grille, resculpted hood and a more
aggressive bumper. On the sides, there are newly designed alloy wheels. At the
rear, the tailgate has undergone a minor redesign and its door handle is now at
the bottom. The tail lamps graphics and the bumper are also new.
Inside, the MG 3 gets a major overhaul with the
mid-cycle refresh. The steering wheel, dashboard, centre console and air vents
– all have a new design. The centre console houses a large new 8-inch central
display for a new infotainment system. The cabin looks a whole lot more
contemporary in the new model.
The Thai-spec MG 3 is powered by the 1.5-litre
VTi-TECH petrol engine that produces 106 PS and 135 Nm of torque. The 5-speed
SeleMatic automated manual transmission sends power to the wheels. With the
facelift, the hatchback may receive a new version of the 1.5-litre VTi-TECH
engine good for 114 PS and 150 Nm of torque. A 4-speed automatic transmission
could replace the AMT.
The 2018 MG 3 will go on sale in Thailand sometime
next year.