Electric Dreams: SAIC PH launches 2024 MG4 EV, MG Marvel R EV

SAIC PH reveals its inital salvo of EV offerings with MG4 and Marvel R

After previewing its new and upcoming electric vehicles (EVs) to dealers earlier this year, SAIC Motor Philippines has officially revealed its latest zero-emissions vehicles to the public. Making its public debut are the all-new MG Marvel R and MG4 EVs.

The Marvel R serves as MG’s compact electric crossover SUV and is based on the Roewe Marvel X. It features a sleek exterior design that sees a unique front fascia with a distinct pair of LED daytime running lights, bumper-mounted LED headlights, It also gets a full-width LED taillight that is perhaps one of its most striking features.

Further adding to the Marvel R’s already unique exterior looks are the massive 19-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 235/45 series tires, concealed door handles that pop out when the vehicle is unlocked, the closed-off grille that indicates it’s an EV, and the neat splashes of silver/chrome accents throughout the vehicle.

Size-wise, the Marvel R measures 4674mm long, 1919mm wide, 1618mm and has a generous 2804mm wheelbase.

Hop inside and you are immediately greeted by a large 19.8-inch touchscreen infotainment. Its huge size is complemented by a wide array of features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth and an 8-speaker sound system. There is also a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster for the driver.

Both the seats and steering wheel are wrapped in leather while the driver and front passenger benefit from power-adjustable seats. It also gets dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents, a power tailgate, wireless charging, four USB ports, a panoramic sunroof, 60:40 split rear seats, and LED ambient lighting.

At the heart of the Marvel R is an electric motor that is powered by a 70 kWh battery. The motor puts out 186 PS and 255 Nm of torque. On a full charge, MG claims the vehicle can cover 402 km based on the NEDC cycle. It has a Type II charging system which makes it easier for customers to plug the vehicle in should they need recharging.

Up next is the daring MG4. Like the Marvel R, this one is also an all-electric vehicle but instead of being a crossover, the MG4 takes the form of a hatchback with a low and wide stance. Its striking looks are courtesy of a keen-looking LED headlight in front and boomerang-shaped taillights poking at the back with a full-width LED light bar.

MG offers the MG4 in two variants that have slightly different exterior features. The STD version comes with 17-inch wheels and a ducktail spoiler, while the higher-spec Lux gets bigger 18-inch wheels and a twin aero rear spoiler.

Size-wise, it measures 4287mm long, 1836mm wide, and is 1504mm tall. Furthermore, the MG4 has a sizable wheelbase that spans 2705mm.

The MG4 EV also comes with two electric powertrain options. First is the standard version with a 51 kWh battery that makes 169 PS and 250 Nm of torque. On the other hand, there's the Lux version that gets a bigger 64 kWh battery pack, producing more power at 204 PS while torque remains the same at 250 Nm.

In terms of range, the MG4 EV Lux can reach up to 435 km using the NEDC cycle. The standard version may cover a slightly shorter distance, but can still reach a good 350 km before needing a full charge.

Step inside and you'll notice the dashboard is simple and straightforward in terms of design. Its main highlights consist of the 10-inch infotainment screen that has Apple Carplay, Android Auto, USB, and Bluetooth connectivity, while the driver gets a 7-inch digital instrument cluster.

Other interior features include 6-way power-adjustable front seats and wireless charging for the top-spec variant, auto climate control with a PM 2.5 air filter, as well as 12V power outlets and three USB charging ports.

When it comes to safety, the MG4 EV comes with front, side, and curtain airbags, along with an electronic parking brake with auto brake hold and tire pressure monitoring system as standard, while the reverse camera is exclusive to the top-spec variant.

MG also fitted the MG4 and Marvel R EVs with a full suite of advanced driving assist systems, such as autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, blind spot indicators, and an intelligent headlight control system, among many others.

Pricing of the all-new MG Marvel R and MG4 EV are as follows:

2024 MG Marvel R Alpha - PHP 2,588,888

2024 MG MG4 STD - PHP 1,468,888

2024 MG MG4 Lux - PHP 1,738,888