If you’re looking for an affordable electric vehicle (EV) in the electric vehicle market, the MG4 Excite 51 is the right one. Priced under $40,000 and gives a range of 350 kilometers on a single charge. This stylish EV is packed with tech and features that make it an attractive option for those ready to switch to electric. In this blog post, we’ll review the MG4 Excite 51, exploring everything from its interior features to its performance on the road. So, let’s start with the details.
Performance and Battery Specs
The MG4 Excite 51 gives an official range of 18 kWh per 100 km. However, in real-world driving experience revealed a figure of around 15.6 kWh per 100 km in city driving conditions. This efficiency makes it a practical choice for daily commuting and longer journeys.
The MG4 Excite 51 features a 125 kW motor powering the rear wheels and delivering 250 Nm of torque. While this is slightly less powerful than its higher-spec sibling. The MG4 Excite 51 is lighter, making it feel just like a family friendly car.
The battery capacity stands at 51 kWh, with 50.8 kWh of usable capacity. That gives an impressive 350 km range. This means you can confidently plan your trips without constantly worrying about charging stations.
Interior Design and Features
When you go inside the MG4 Excite 51, the first thing you’ll notice is the futuristic dashboard. Despite being available only in black and gray, the design is sleek and minimalistic. The standout feature is the central console, which includes a gear selector resembling a hockey puck, creating a clean and clutter-free environment.
The 10.25-inch central display is a touch screen that integrates smoothly into the dashboard. While some might argue it could be larger, its size is just right, it’s not obtrusive, and it responds quickly without much lag. Although it lacks wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, it does offer wired connectivity, which can be cleverly managed with a designated space to hide cables, keeping your dashboard organized.
Comfort and Space
Comfort is key in any family car and the MG4 Excite 51 does not disappoint. The cloth seats, while perceived as a cost-cutting measure, actually provide a more comfortable experience than leather. Especially in extreme weather conditions. The cabin is spacious, with sample legroom both in the front and back seats, making it suitable for families.
The driver seat height is adjustable, ensuring that individuals of all sizes can find a comfortable driving position. The long wheelbase contributes to a smooth ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively.
Charging and Efficiency
Charging the MG4 Excite 51 is straightforward, with several options available. The included granny charger will get the job done, but it’s slower than ideal, taking about 35 hours for a full charge. Opting for a 7 kW wall-mounted charger is the best choice for daily use, allowing you to charge overnight for around $10 on the Eco plan with Ecotricity.
For road trips, DC rapid charging is available and that makes it easy to find charging stations across New Zealand. The convenience of charging with Ecotricity climate positive electricity further enhances the appeal of going electric.
Pros and Cons
No vehicle is perfect and the MG4 Excite 51 has its some drawbacks also. While it comes packed with features, it lacks some amenities found in the higher-spec models, such as voice commands, heated seats, and a comprehensive camera system. Additionally, the one-pedal driving feature can be inconsistent when the battery is fully charged, which might catch some drivers off guard.
However, the pros largely outweigh the cons. The MG4 Excite 51 comes with an impressive suite of safety features. Including the MG Pilot system, which offers nine different safety features to keep you and your family secure on the road. The seven year unlimited kilometer warranty provides peace of mind for long term ownership.
Is the MG4 Excite 51 Value for Money?
The MG4 Excite 51 is priced competitively within the EV market. That offers a strong value proposition compared to traditional vehicles. With no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and a longer warranty, it’s easier on the wallet in the long run. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to transition to electric without breaking the bank.
When compared to similarly sized vehicles from established manufacturers, the MG4 Excite 51 not only matches their features but often exceeds them in warranty and performance.
Conclusion
For those who enjoy outdoor adventures, this car is a game changer. It’s not just a normal electric vehicle, it solves the real problem of your life. Let’s rate this car across all the categories:
- Performance: 6 out of 10 – Quick off the line but not the fastest in its class.
- Handling: 8 out of 10 – Excellent for its price range, with a low center of gravity.
- Comfort: 7 out of 10 – Spacious and comfortable, especially for families.
- Efficiency: 7 out of 10 – Beats official ratings in real-world driving.
- Gadgets: 6 out of 10 – Lacks some features from higher-end models but still offers essentials.
- Value: 10 out of 10 – Unmatched value in the current market.
- Charging: 5 out of 10 – Decent charging options but could be faster.
- Style: 9 out of 10 – An aesthetically pleasing design that stands out.
- Fit for Purpose: 8 out of 10 – Family-friendly with practical features.
In conclusion, the MG4 Excite 51 is a remarkable entry-level electric vehicle that combines affordability with a well rounded feature set. Its stylish design, impressive range, and practical features make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to transition to electric driving in New Zealand. If you’re considering a new vehicle, the MG4 Excite 51 should definitely be on your choice list. With its blend of performance, comfort and value.
