2026 MG4 LUX: The future is now
My father bought a cellphone worth P50,000 over 20 years ago.
That is certainly a substantial sum (especially back then, when we account for inflation), but it had something that no other phone in the market had at the time – a colored screen. Even the most sophisticated models from then-market leader Nokia had monochrome screens (even if you could customize the backlight, keypad and casing).
Many thought it was an overpriced gimmick, but even that P50,000 “candy bar” phone became outmoded as smartphones started flooding the market. As of press time, you could buy something roughly similar to that 2000s-era colored cellphone for less than half the price of a full tank of diesel.
I suddenly remembered my Dad’s old phone as I was reviewing the 2026 MG4 LUX battery-electric vehicle (EV) – you see, I’ve been around long enough to remember when EVs were also considered overpriced gimmicks. But with fuel prices hitting the stratosphere, more and more people are looking to break away from the tumultuous global oil market.
Is MG Philippines’ big hatchback a precursor for tomorrow’s world?
Sharp looks
For those who would normally be shopping for a Toyota Corolla Altis or Honda Civic, this is MG’s interpretation of a compact car.
Its aggressive styling is thanks to the scowling vents in the lower bumper and the deep front air dam (although these would be more visible in a color besides our test unit’s Meteorite Black paint). These are nicely complemented by the powerful LED headlights that stretch into the fenders.
Those headlights also emphasize the strong character line that runs above the MG4’s door handles. Meanwhile, the high window line and upswept plastic trim on the doors work with the 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/40-series tires (with oddly different designs on our test unit) for a racy silhouette.
However, I like the MG4’s rear the most – the steeply raked rear windscreen is topped by a dual-wing tailgate spoiler, while the full-width LED taillights jut out as an intricate, three-dimensional piece. This EV is certainly one of the best-lookingin the market, as of press time.
Good room for 5
Inside, the MG4 LUX has a mature aesthetic, thanks to its black, part-leather upholstery (although the hard plastics take away from a more premium experience).
Space inside is sufficient for five passengers, while the lack of a full-sized center console means plenty of storage space up front. This EV also comes standard with a powerful, dual-zone, climate-control system that happily gets some separate controls (a fully separate system would be greatly appreciated, though).
However, while the rear windscreen looks amazing, it heavily reduces rear visibility. It doesn’t help that the 360-degree camera is quite blurry and offers only a small view through the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (which had difficulty connecting to my iPhone 15, whether through USB or Bluetooth).
Other issues include the lack of a dedicated starter button and the rather small cargo area (without any spare wheel) for such a large hatchback. Overall, this midrange MG4 LUX is a reasonable daily driver, but its interior isn’t as well-equipped or as pleasant to be in as similarly priced rivals like the top-spec BYD ATTO 3 Premium.
Strong EV power
However, keen drivers may enjoy the MG4 LUX for its spunky performance.
It gets a 64-kWh lithium-ion battery pack and a rear-mounted electric motor for a combined output of 201 horsepower and 184 Newton-meters of torque. Acceleration is excellent for a car of this size, while the firm suspension allows for planted, high-speed cornering in concert with the rear-wheel-drive layout.
But the drawback of that racy handling is the choppy ride – even with the tire pressure reduced to 35 psi all around from the recommended 37 psi, the MG4 LUX crashes over low-speed bumps, seemingly indicating insufficient damper stroke. In addition, the light and responsive steering lacks feel, while the strong brakes are operated by a spongy pedal.
Nonetheless, this MG EV can get you to a lot of places without using a drop of fossil fuel – we recorded 7.1 to 7.7 kilometers per kilowatt in the city for a maximum range of 460 kilometers on a full charge. Meanwhile, it achieved 6.3 to 7.1 kilometers per kilowatt on the expressway, which is equivalent to a maximum range of 420 kilometers.
In addition, all MG4 variants come standard with a comprehensive active-safety suite that includes convenient and life-saving features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keeping Assist System, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert and Blind Sport Indicator System.
The new norm?
Overall, the P1,738,888 2026 MG4 LUX is a stylish, zippy and energy-efficient hatchback that fits the lifestyles of Filipinos who want a compact car, but don’t want bloated fuel and maintenance costs of a large sedan.
However, its driving dynamics lack the supreme polish of the hybrid-electric P1,990,000 Honda Civic e:HEV compact sedan. Meanwhile, battery EV rivals like the P1,798,000 BYD ATTO 3 Premium crossover provide a more pleasant ride and interior, along with more modern tech, at the expense of outright good looks.
But given the increasing demand for electrified vehicles in the Philippines, expect cars like the MG4 to undergo rapid improvements as time goes on. I don’t expect it to become outmoded like my Dad’s old cellphone anytime soon.
