2025 MG4 EV revealed in China – bigger, softer, and more global

SAIC-owned MG Motor has unveiled the next-generation MG4 EV on Weibo, positioning it as the brand’s first global model for 2025. This updated version replaces the current MG4, which debuted in mid-2022 and was launched in Malaysia in March last year.

Compared to its predecessor, the 2025 MG4 adopts a more refined and toned-down design approach. The front features more conservatively angled headlamps, moving away from the sharper, aggressive look of the outgoing model. Additionally, the corner air inlets now lack the decorative trim, adding to the cleaner appearance.

The body-coloured lip on the front bumper, a signature of the previous MG4, remains but is now framed by a honeycomb mesh instead of the vertical slats. A notable change is the absence of the recessed section on the bonnet, giving the car a smoother front profile.

From the side, the new MG4 appears less complex, with softened lines and the removal of the large black moulding between the wheels. The redesigned doors and altered greenhouse hint at the vehicle’s revised dimensions.

According to CarNewsChina, the new MG4 measures 4,395 mm in length, 1,842 mm in width, and 1,551 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,750 mm. This makes it 108 mm longer, 6 mm wider, and 35 mm taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase has also been extended by 45 mm, suggesting better interior space.

The rear of the MG4 draws inspiration from the MG Cyberster, featuring a light bar connecting the taillight clusters, which now have a distinct arrow motif. The wedge between the rear window and taillights has been softened, while the C-pillars are now body-coloured instead of black.

While interior images remain under wraps, limited technical specifications have been revealed. The 2025 MG4 will use a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, paired with a rear-mounted electric motor producing 163 PS (161 hp or 120 kW). Despite the vehicle’s larger size, it is lighter at 1,485 kg compared to the previous model’s 1,635 kg. However, it has a lower top speed of 160 km/h, and its motor is slightly less powerful than the outgoing model’s 170 PS (168 hp or 125 kW) unit.

The preliminary data, sourced from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), suggests that MG has also applied for two additional badges—MG3 and E5—for the new model. This could indicate plans for further variants, though it might confuse potential buyers.

The redesign appears to be a strategic move, as the previous MG4 struggled in China’s competitive EV market. By adopting a more globally appealing design, MG aims to strengthen its presence in the increasingly crowded EV segment.

With this global launch, MG is likely eyeing not just the Chinese market but also international markets like Malaysia, where the current MG4 has already made its mark. Whether the redesign will help MG gain better traction remains to be seen, but the effort to create a more universally appealing electric hatchback is clear.