MG’s New Affordable Electric SUV Packs Surprising Battery Tech

MG Motor is expanding its electric lineup with a new compact SUV called the MG 4X. It joins the growing family built around the MG4 but takes the formula in a slightly more practical direction. Like the hatchback, the 4X uses a semi-solid-state battery.

The pack has a capacity of 53.95 kWh and contains only about five percent liquid electrolyte, which is why MG classifies it as semi-solid. The goal is to improve thermal stability and reduce the battery's sensitivity to extreme temperatures. Although the capacity is not especially large by modern EV standards, MG claims a range of approximately 317 miles.

MG has not yet revealed the power figures or even how many motors the SUV will use. What we do know is that it rides on the same E3 electronic architecture as the latest MG4 hatchback. The car is positioned to compete with models such as the BYD Atto 2 in the rapidly growing affordable EV segment.

In terms of size, the MG 4X measures 4,395 mm long, 1,842 mm wide, and 1,551 mm tall, riding on a 2,750 mm wheelbase. It also keeps the weight fairly low for an EV at about 1,485 kg. That is actually one of the more interesting details here, since many electric SUVs have a habit of creeping well past the two-ton mark.

Styling looks familiar but not identical to the hatchback. The front end features large lower air intakes and triangular headlights connected by a thin light bar. The SUV also gets black mirror caps, a large panoramic glass roof, and sharp taillights that appear similar to those used on the MG S5.

Inside, MG has not shown much yet, but it is a safe bet the cabin will borrow heavily from the MG4. That likely means a central infotainment display developed with Oppo, along with a handful of proper physical buttons on the steering wheel and center console. Honestly, that last part might be the best news. After years of everything moving to touchscreens, having a few real buttons again tends to make everyday driving a lot less frustrating.