PHEV of view
MG Philippines had a true showstopper at the recent 2026 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).
Although its amazing Cyberster roadster took center stage, droves of visitors flocked to the Chinese brand’s newly launched, plug-in-hybrid-electric vehicle (PHEV). Indeed, the all-new MG G50 PHEV was so popular that not only were we unable to get many photos of it, but it also ended up as MG Philippines’ biggest seller at MIAS 2026.
Happily, the automaker let us have a closer look at its electrified family hauler, where we also got the chance to drive it around a little.
Exclusive looks
Much of the G50’s trademark styling elements remain in this new PHEV variant, from the dramatic LED taillights to the swooping character lines down its vast flanks.
However, the most apparent change is up front, where the non-PHEV’s friendly face has been replaced with a more aggressive and futuristic look. This is largely thanks to the relocation of the LED headlights into huge scallops on the sides of the lower bumper, while the LED daytime-running lights have been moved right up the hoodline.
The G50 PHEV also gets matte-black, 17-inch alloy wheels that are more aerodynamic for better fuel efficiency at higher speeds. MG Philippines said this facelifted look is already being used in G50 models in other markets, although the local, non-PHEV variants will continue to use the original design, as of press time.
Huge space for 7
Inside, the G50 PHEV remains the most expansive, three-row, multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) in its price range, providing excellent room for seven passengers.
You get full leather upholstery and soft-touch materials for a truly premium feel, while the second-row captain chairs and the split-folding, third-row bench seat offer far better accommodation than similarly priced competitors like the Honda BR-V VX, Mitsubishi Xpander Cross and Hyundai Stargazer X.
MG Philippines also said the G50 PHEV has 406 liters of cargo space with all of the seats up and 1,162 liters with the third row folded. As with the exterior, the electrified G50’s dashboard has been updated to get dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital gauge cluster and the touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
All the screens are clear and responsive, along with offering a superb view of the standard 360-degree camera. MG has also wisely retained separate controls for the powerful climate-control system, although I wish that they didn’t move the electric parking brake into the touchscreen.
Other goodies that are exclusive to this new flagship G50 include attractive faux wood trim, a two-spoke steering wheel, panoramic moonroof, wireless charging pad and electric tailgate.
Mighty powerplant
The biggest news about the G50 PHEV is, of course, under the hood.
It still gets a 1.5-liter, twin-cam, 16-valve inline-4 gasoline engine, but the turbocharger has been replaced with a front-mounted electric motor mated to an 18.6-kWh LFP battery pack and a 1-speed Dedicated Hybrid Transmission. Combined output is a mighty 295 horsepower, which MG Philippines claims can propel this MPV from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.9 seconds.
This powerhouse powerplant certainly provided brisk acceleration in our short test course, but the light steering lacked feel, while the powerful brakes were operated by a spongy pedal. MG Philippines also claims an NEDC battery range of 95 kilometers on one full charge and a maximum combined CLTC range of 1,415 kilometers.
A more thorough review of the G50 PHEV would allow us to fully test its ride, handling and energy consumption on public roads. But what immediately deserves kudos is the addition of a full active-safety suite that includes life-saving features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist and collision-avoidance assist.
Big winner?
At P1,398,888, the all-new 2026 MG G50 PHEV is priced to wreak absolute havoc on the local MPV segment.
Rivals include the P1,378,000 Mitsubishi Xpander Cross, the P1,378,000 Hyundai Stargazer X Premium and the P1,400,000 Honda BR-V VX – among this crowd, the MG is easily the largest, most spacious, most powerful and best-equipped option, all while offering the flexibility and superior fuel-efficiency of a PHEV.
The G50 PHEV likewise takes on more expensive, electrified MPVs like the battery-electric, P1,748,000 BYD eMAX 7 Superior Captain and the P1,991,000 Toyota Zenix Q HEV, with the latter offering a relatively miniscule range on pure battery power.
Given how well MG’s new MPV has captured the hearts of Filipinos facing eye-watering fuel prices, it seems that the automaker is back in the game to recapture its crown from BYD Cars as the Philippines’ top Chinese brand.
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