Affordable electric car shootout! Is the MG4 or the Kia Niro EV the one to choose? / Electrifying

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There are electric two cars that never fail to turn up the heat when we feature them on electrifying.com or our social channels. The MG4 and Kia Niro EV (formerly known as the eNiro) are, understandably, hot news at the moment because both offer an affordable but feature-packed entry point into electric car ownership.
But which is the better car? This really is a head-scratcher, because - without spoiling the ending - both of these cars are very much alike in a lot of ways. And that’s a very good thing.
It’s also a sort of battle royale, as the electric Kia Niro was the second best selling electric car in Britain last year, behind the mighty Tesla Model 3. But next year, MG is confident that this will overtake it. That’s a bold ambition, but if the initial order books are anything to go by, it could well be possible.
Join Nicki and Tom as they compare the two for design, features, practicality and range. Which would you choose? Let us know in the comments below and if you’d like to see us compare any other electric cars head-to-head, start typing.
#mg4 #kianiroev #electriccars
MG4 Long Range
£28,495 SE Long Range, £31,495 Trophy
201bhp, 184lb ft of torque
Rear wheel drive, 1-spd
7.9 seconds 0-62mph, 99mph top speed
61.7kWh battery (useable), 280 miles range WLTP
125kw DC, 7.4kw AC, 34 min fast DC (155 miles added), 68min 50kW
10hours on home wallbox
Weight: 1,785kg
Boot: 363-litres (1,177 seats folded)
Kia Niro EV 4
Starts at £36,245 (£42,645 if test car is ‘4’ grade)
201bhp, 188lb ft of torque
Front wheel drive, 1-spd
7.8 seconds 0-62mph, 103mph top speed
64.8kWh battery (useable), 285 miles range WLTP
80kw DC, 11kw AC, 45 min fast DC, 64min 50kW
10hr 30 on home wallbox
Weight: 1,739kg
Boot: 475-litres (1,392)
#MG4 #kianiro

[@djewson]

Picked up my MG4 SE standard range yesterday 26 grand and it has done today since picking it up 170 miles with 15% and 30 miles left in the battery. The WLTP is 218 miles So for this time of year as it's starting to get colder, it doing pretty good. The MG4 is good value for money.

[@daveg1250]

that must have been a short waiting time from ordering to actual delivery, which is rare now a days with cars

[@djewson]

@@daveg1250 didn't actually order one, found a dealer 60 miles away that had one spare without a pre-order. Most people want the LR or the trophy, I wasn't fussed and was open to most colours too. Saw it on auto trader as available now, so jumped on it. The wait time normally is 8 weeks for std range or orange trophy. 16 weeks for all other long range SE and all the other colour trophies.

[@festo8885]

26 grand on this Chinese tat.

[@djewson]

@@festo8885 each to their own Was £19k for my previous ZS EV 18 months ago and I just sold that for £21.5k So I definitely ain't complaining Mg will destroy the competition at this price range Nearest competition with only a 3 year warranty instead of 7 years is the VW id3 A full 10 grand more For less car Haters will hate Sensible people will love them

[@julianfranck6425]

@@festo8885 Like the phone you are holding.

[@TheMelbournelad]

I’m not sure how big the space is in price in Uk pounds for everyday person, but here in Australia the base NIRO EV is $66k Aussie dollariedos. Though the Mg 4 hasn’t been released here yet we are expecting around the $40k mark or maybe high $30k mark. That’s a $25k difference here. That’s a whole other small ICE car. I was seriously looking at the MG ZS EV but the wait times are into 2023 now. Might best best to wait to get first lot of these expected around the same time or earlier

[@otron805]

Wow. 40K is a very good deal. with 25k difference I will take MG instantly.

[@TheMelbournelad]

@@otron805 well it’s the expected price point according to actual car journos here in Oz, not some random like me. Don’t take it as gospel.

[@chrisj6321]

39000 aud, it's out for order now that's why I looking at this video

[@bovineox1111]

Have driven the MG4 and it's pretty brilliant. I'm very tempted. It's a huge amount of car for not very much.

[@WonkoTheSaneUK]

The MG4's "blocky" buttons will be easier to hit while being bounced around on the UK's pothole-riddled roads. On the Trophy spec, drive modes can be mapped to a "favourites" button on the wheel.

[@garrycroft4215]

I coded my BMW i3s to default in Sport mode instead of starting in Comfort. I don’t know if the Brabus defaults or stays where you put it. 😬

[@pauld7827]

I fully agree! Can't be doing with scrolling through umpteen screens to turn the heated seat on, or defrost the windscreen. I've got a series 2 MG ZS EV and prefer to use the 'clunky' switches. Want the heated seat? Press a button and press the screen. Want to defrost the windscreen press the button. Using Car Play and want to change the radio? Click the home button. Want to change the temperature, hit the 'clunky' button. I think that it's brilliant compromise for the iPad generation and us slightly older folks..... When I return my ZS EV, I'll probably go for an MG4 - although I'd like the panoramic roof I have now.

[@paulevans7560]

the eniro also has programable buttons. Plus the flappy paddles which dont need to take up one of the favourite buttons. but both greaat cars

[@paulevans7560]

@@pauld7827 The eniro has buttons for heated seats etc. Also favourite buttons that you can program too. But also has a drive mode button (i believe) as well as the flappy paddles, so this doesnt tie up the favourite buttons either

[@tomwookieford8445]

Big fan of big buttons - it's more that they're a tiny bit loose! So they feel cheaper. Want to see how they stand up after a few years. (probably better than a touchscreen, to be fair!)

[@Richard-fx6go]

Picking up my wife's MG4 Trophy (Orange) in a week or so, great value for money, test drove one and was impressed. Not a patch on my Model Y but as i said, great value for money.

[@meezen84]

Not really liking how both cars look but I absolutely choose the MG if I have to. It’s a great strategy from MG regarding pricing maybe this will push other brands to start asking an acceptable amount for their electric cars.

[@craigo2656]

Fake MG, Shame on any cheap skate buying Chinese Cars! You have no dignity or principles. We are literally at war with China and you are trying to promote their industry. Think further than a quick buck today. Don't you want your kids to live in a free world? Support western leaning nations industry i.e. UK, EU, US, S Korea, Japan etc... Your future if you buy Chinese brands ( made in china is different, profits go to western nations, western people, and western technology companies ) kzbin.info/www/bejne/pp_QkoyGmtyseJo kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5qreoeHe9mHh9E The future for your family friends and children will be controlled forever by the Chinese, what they decide you will do, no freedom, no protest, no choice. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3fNgHyniNqbhZo China is not yet strong enough, there is still a chance for a future where democracy and choice remains dominant. If you make the right decisions now the world still has a chance for a democratic future. You might be silly enough to think you have no choice now. This means you do not really understand what it is like to live under a truly totalitarian regime. In the 1980's women who became pregnant for a second time were dragged by police in to makeshift hospitals and forced abortions were performed. No one could stop the state doing this. That is China yesterday and that is China today. The same single party rules in China. The video below is from only 13 years ago. If they are willing to do this to their own people, what will they do once they have power over you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnrclqGHYtOdorM kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJXOeXSVYt2lr80

[@GigusChadiusthe3rd]

Agreed, 35k for a mini that cant do 200 miles is outrageous

[@johnmcconville6055]

@@GigusChadiusthe3rd We have a Mini EV and in it's been faultless.Ok it only goes 100 odd miles,but when it charges on 50 kWh it does so very quickly.In contrast I ordered a MG4 and delivery was cancelled the day before as it had "The oil leak". Hadn't left the showroom and it was broken.The Mini has done a 300 mile long trip with no fuss.

[@johnmcconville6055]

@@GigusChadiusthe3rd The Mini is getting serviced today .17k miles and it has been brilliant.We are keeping it a long time as in British sort of Racing Green it will be a desirable little car.As far as I'm aware we are still waiting for the great fix from China for the MG4.This is exactly why I cancelled the finance.I would have been starting payments for the car,having exceeded the 14 day cancellation period.As far as I'm aware it's still pi$$ing oil on the showroom floor.I would rather have a 15 year old Toyota anything at the moment.

[@johnchristmas7522]

Its the same trick the Japanese did years ago - take the loss -go in dirt cheap and kill the market-when its yours you can charge what you like. Plenty of cheap labour in China.

[@DariuszTech]

I have bought an MG4 last week. Upgraded from MG5 which was very bland in my opinion. Yes more practical but for the money any EV on the market seems overpriced. Sadly this car isn't very efficient because of it's weight 😔 so far avarage 3.6kW. on MG5 I was getting around 4kw based on 15k miles. I'm paying £260 per month with 5k deposit. Yes kia will give you more space but I wouldn't pay £100 per month to drive Niro. Great video. I'll be making my owner review soon about the MG4 myself shortly 😜😊

[@yitzele]

Kia niro does 4.2 average

[@MultiEski]

To jest ten pcp ? Ze auto oddajesz pozniej?

[@loveclose]

I looked at the MG5 estate which was completely unmanageable in my view as far as rear seat room is concerned, and the rear seats do not fold anywhere near flat. The new dedicated EV platform of the MG4 utilises space brilliantly. Interested about the bland drive for the MG5 - certainly didn't get a bland drive on my MG4 test drive last week!!

[@alancarlyon3928]

I have the MG3 at present, I get my new MG4 in 8 weeks, I ordered it in cloth seats, nothing worse than burning your thighs in the summer with leather seats, more so with the climate getting hotter! Great blog, many thanks!

[@smaemurray]

MG will shake up the EV market. Good on them 👍🏻

[@nafizhaq4554]

Just drove MG4 this weekend! Absolutly love it and MG4 is the clear winner

[@craigo2656]

Fake MG, Shame on any cheap skate buying Chinese Cars! You have no dignity or principles. We are literally at war with China and you are trying to promote their industry. Think further than a quick buck today. Don't you want your kids to live in a free world? Support western leaning nations industry i.e. UK, EU, US, S Korea, Japan etc... Your future if you buy Chinese brands ( made in china is different, profits go to western nations, western people, and western technology companies ) kzbin.info/www/bejne/pp_QkoyGmtyseJo kzbin.info/www/bejne/j5qreoeHe9mHh9E The future for your family friends and children will be controlled forever by the Chinese, what they decide you will do, no freedom, no protest, no choice. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z3fNgHyniNqbhZo China is not yet strong enough, there is still a chance for a future where democracy and choice remains dominant. If you make the right decisions now the world still has a chance for a democratic future. You might be silly enough to think you have no choice now. This means you do not really understand what it is like to live under a truly totalitarian regime. In the 1980's women who became pregnant for a second time were dragged by police in to makeshift hospitals and forced abortions were performed. No one could stop the state doing this. That is China yesterday and that is China today. The same single party rules in China. The video below is from only 13 years ago. If they are willing to do this to their own people, what will they do once they have power over you. kzbin.info/www/bejne/rnrclqGHYtOdorM kzbin.info/www/bejne/iJXOeXSVYt2lr80

[@mercury683]

MG is a Chinese made car....no thanks

[@neilpepper1957]

I feel the price alone makes for mg4 thr winner but after all the pluses and minuses the mg4 is the clear winner. The Kia Niro ev looks so dated in the lower spec but if you go up in the range the the Kia is great but £32000 compared to over £40000 then there is only one winner

[@simonsinclair3784]

I’ve had my Kia Niro EV a week and absolutely love it. My first EV. Really pleased with drive and quality.

[@koek1122]

which trim level? ordered mine in july. it will be delivered in february...

[@whatever_12]

For £10k I'll pass on the 100 liter bigger boot which I'll only use maybe 5 time a year at full capacity..Hopefully thanks to mg ev price might go down a bit in uk in the next 2 years

[@wongcna]

If the £ rate is as strong as before Brexit , the MG SE standard could be bottom 20k mark which make the EV more affordable

[@johnboorman654]

I have just ordered the MG4 EV and seen about 5 different dealers and all reported that the price is very very very likely to go up in early 2023. If your in the market for an EV I would buy the MG4 EV now and appreciate the price you pay now will have a better residual value when the price goes up

[@egm4305]

​@@johnboorman654prices have dropped significantly.

[@Jmcg1959]

You better get used to Chinese cars they will have a massive impact on EV,s they have some very good ones in china that are not available in the USA or Europe.

[@rl9legend770]

How do we know they're good? Might as well be made from plastic cups and unreliable

[@mattlawton4715]

No ev is going down

[@sheehyjessica1991]

@@mattlawton4715 then why you see the electric car here

[@jojichacko10]

Chinese is after all Chinese 😂😂

[@piglet5287]

And buy yourself a big fire extinguisher 😂

[@peterbsimkins]

The MG4 ticked nearly all the boxes for me as an everyday family car, except you can't increase load capacity when you need that little extra to go away as it can't take a roof box.

[@NealMcQuaid]

Same issue for me. Seems more procedural than a limitation of the car however so hopefully MG follow through…

[@alfrredd]

.Does anyone know the usuable battery number of the base model MG4 (51kWh)????

[@mickinmerton8053]

The lack of roof load is also an issue for me. I understand that it can take a tow bar which would possibly do for me as I want to carry bikes.

[@ianjames3078]

@@alfrredd about 50.8kW, it’s the other tech battery so little buffer

[@NealMcQuaid]

@@mickinmerton8053 I was hoping to both bikes, and roof box 😕 seems arbitrary- the MG5 was also sold at the outset without certification for a roof load (with MG stating the roof rails were aesthetic only! They backtracked here, so hopefully still opportunity…

[@avidviewer1]

Interesting video. Thanks! I may be mistaken, but I'd have thought MG had a pretty good foothold in the UK EV market before introducing the MG4. After all, the various variants of the ZS EV and MG5 EV have done pretty well and attracted substantial orders in the past.

[@johnchristmas7522]

Many people still believe MG is British- IT IS NOT. Its Chinese and therefore has to conform to the CCP rules.

[@pauld7827]

I have an MG ZS EV Trophy and love it. If you need more space than the MG4, consider the ZS instead. Although, I will probably change mine for the MG4 four wheel drive model, when it becomes available. That will be awesome! 😁

[@wongcna]

Guys, might be the new facelift MG5 better for family and roofbox. I am also tempting to get the 26k MG4 for myself for fun driving or new MG5 for family car.

[@tomwookieford8445]

That's getting driven next month, I think! Looking forward to that.

[@JimmyLager]

I'm driving my MY21 e-Niro and I absolutely love it! We've been two trips around europe, our first was 3800km, Sweden - Denmark - Germany down to northern Italy, and then back again. Two adults and two ypung children, and everything was an absolute joy! The only downside is the charge-speed on DC-charging, but as we mainly charge at home, it's still ok. I love the use of buttons, I can find and use them without letting my eyes of the road. The car is very efficient, and I'm now looking to perhaps change it out to a MG4 Trophy version. The price I have to pay for my 3 year old, +4500km, Kia is more than the MG4 standard version, so I'll have to go up if I choose the MG4. But still, its a brand new car!

[@LongEarthTradingCompany]

I have had my Niro EV for about a month now. My first EV, and I have to say I really enjoy driving electric. It’s a nice car, absolutely perfect for everyday driving. Will be there exciting to see how it handles the Swedish winter, with some longer trips to go skiing. One thing though that’s pretty important is that my Niro, which is the entry level trim here in Sweden called Action, have the bigger, 10.25 inch second screen. So the trim levels can have quite different specs on different markets. Just worth keeping in mind if you order one, to check the specs for your market.

[@Johnkg72]

I tend to think that whilst they might be comparable for those buying, they’re not really in the same 'class'. We had an order on an MG4, but the lack of boot space for a growing family was a deal breaker despite the costs and feature benefits of the MG.

[@TheNad84]

Agree, they are not like for like cars

[@Netrom.]

A bit strange not to compare the Niro EV with the ZS EV. Both are family sized cars and the ZS EV is the clear value winner, same as the MG4.

[@Mk1Laser]

@@Netrom., not if you have driven both, and the dealers will not even take an order for a ZS unless that's changed in the last 3 months

[@Netrom.]

@@Mk1Laser I have driven both. So the ZS EV is the clear value winner over the Niro EV. The MG4 covers a different segment of the market. As a family man, the MG4 is too small compared to the ZS and Niro.

[@Mk1Laser]

@@Netrom. drive both down a steep hill - you can control the speed just with regen on the Niro and when you do 24k a year, you want a nice place to be with good seats. Once you get the feel of the paddles, you will use them constantly its one of those things you don't know you need - also, the family will get bigger and the Niro has more space in the rear seats! I was impressed by the ZS and if the Niro hadn't come out a week after our test drive, I may have waited the year to get it! I would only have another 5 months to wait now but I believe the Niro is now at 9 months. Had our Niro for 3 months, and its exceeded expectations. I have kept on looking and still think these two are still the best value. would like a go in the MG4 when the sporty one comes out!

[@JJamJ]

Bought the MG4 yesterday. Loved it!

[@rammpage4468]

They are not in the same price range, so if you want a cheaper EV, go for MG4; if you don't mind spending another $10,000, go for Niro, shouldn't be that much of a trouble to decide. I'd pick the MG4 myself because after all, I'm not paying $10,000 extra for slightly better interior material, it is just me though, I'm cheap. All I wanted is just an EV that drives nice with all the up-to-date infotainment systems, that I can drive it to work and save me money when charging in this crazy petro price era.

[@James_08_07]

Thing is, per mile, considering the additional up front cost of an EV, and electricity prices, running costs simply aren't low enough.

[@slimbo689]

@@James_08_07 Aren't low enough, charging the car at night (off peak) at 12p per kw it will take around £8 to fully charge the MG4 from zero with a 270mile range which will probably do 230/240miles, only thing I can think of is if £8 gets you 240miles but it's not low enough for some people it's because they don't drive very far each week to notice the savings.

[@James_08_07]

@@slimbo689 For now maybe, no way it stays that low. Plus next door neighbour just told they can't install a charger because the local sub-station can't cope with the load...

[@Banyan314]

Interesting to see how the ORA Cat fairs in this kind of company once it finally arrives. Both of these are good cars for their market segment, although the styling of the MG is so much better than the Niro EV ( again that is a personal taste issue).

[@chrispenn715]

I think the Ora will fall short on ragne and perhaps charge rate? I do like that is's a bit different, but I think they've overpriced it..... We'll see. :-) I looked at the Niro EV - nice car, but the charge rate is behind the times. Plumped for the MG as it's a reasonable compromise on range and charging, plus very competitive price......

[@Banyan314]

@@chrispenn715 I agree it’s overpriced for what it is but at £32K for the launch model with a small battery 🔋 I think it might have trouble getting traction, especially if MG and BYD keep up their pricing strategy.

[@dicky-duck6632]

i want an Ora Punk Cat

[@MUFCSINCE90]

8:45 I am my father’s daughter. Early to mid 80s he bought a Cavalier saloon in blue because he fell in love with the colour and the looks of the car. Car was a total pup/lemon. I did same with the MG4 in met black, std version. Had it 8 weeks and it actually made me anxious. Too many things to list but I pick up my Niro EV2 in Mineral Blue in a fortnight. I had a KIA Niro hybrid in blue before the Mg so I know what I’m getting and can’t stop smiling 😊

[@airspike1]

Kia Niro EV everyday for me, the build quality and finish are sublime, it drives well (doesn't creep - which I hate!) and is super efficient at normal road speeds. Factor in the superb layout internally and for me it even beats the Renault Megane EV. Having driven them all I opted for the Niro EV and cant wait for delivery!

[@Patricu]

I got one and you are not wrong.

[@sevensixtysteve8662]

Great review and good to see MG continuing to offer good value relative to the other manufacturers. Shame more companies cant do the same but that might change soon as a wave of Chinese manufacturers start launching cars in Europe - will be interesting to see how the legacy manufacturers react.

[@JohnLee-db9zt]

MG is a Chinese car. No longer British.

[@seanlee3863]

@@JohnLee-db9zt just like Volvo and polestar and Volvo us leaps and bounds better under Geely than it was under Ford.

[@Andi_mit_E]

The MG4 is really good at charging. I've seen it's top charging speed at 142kW (!!!), over 130kW for a long time and even at 80% it sucked more than 50kW from the charger (top spec model).

[@fanfeck2844]

What’s the point of comparing a car that’s 10k more for the base model, and even more for higher spec?

[@benrgrogan]

Because all of MG's EV rivals are 10k more

[@fanfeck2844]

@@benrgrogan there are cars in that high twenty to low thirty grand range. I just thought this was a strange one. Not even the same type of car

[@benrgrogan]

@@fanfeck2844 Those cars are mostly B segment supermini's or have considerably less range. MG4 and Niro are both C segment, both have similar range, similar performance, similar interior space and are likely to be the second and third best selling EVs in the UK, it seems like a pretty fair comparison to me. If they compared MG4 with a Corsa E or Leaf, it would be a rather 1 sided victory for the MG

[@fanfeck2844]

@@benrgrogan my point exactly. If you’re in the market for a thirty grand car, you’re not going to even glance at the Kia, no matter what bells and whistles it has on it. They’re not comparable cars as one 10 to 20 grand more expensive. They won’t even be serving the same market, as the Kia is designed for older family people, while the MG is more old school hatchback like a Ford Focus

[@benrgrogan]

@@fanfeck2844 If you're in the market for a medium family car both the Kia and the MG will be on your shopping list. All the other sub 30k cars would be too small or too low range. If you're after a Focus sized car then a Fiesta won't be suitable but a Kuga would be. In the same way a Corsa-E is going to be unsuitable for someone interested in an MG4 but the similarly sized Niro would be more of interest. I'm in a social media group of people buying the MG4's the car they're most commonly testing it against; the Kia Niro

[@tomattime]

"Nicely quick without being stupidly ballistic" Best turn of phrase this year 👏🏽

[@alexanderstefanov6474]

The Kia is a good car but it's a platform developed for both EV and ICE which means it's compromised and FWD. The MG4 is a dedicated EV and the great packaging shows it, it's also RWD and in an EV that's arguably even better than in an ICE car. Sorry but the MG4 is fantastic value for a car which is great compared even to an ID3. I do like the proper EV Kia and Hyundai though, especially the ioniq 6

[@ianjames3078]

Ioniq 6 isn’t great, looks like 3 cars in one to me and the inside has a very high floor to seat situation.

[@AlanTov]

I mean it isn’t compromised. It drives great. Lots of spin around these buzz phrases. Mean nothing in actual practice.

[@alexanderstefanov6474]

@@AlanTov i agree it's a very good car, but the packaging is a compromise because the platform was developed for use as both ICE and EV, so it can't offer the space the MG4 or ID3 can compared to the size of the car. I wouldn't say it's just buzz to say that both the MG4 and ID3 are small C segment cars which offer D segment interior space due to their EV packaging. Also the niro is FWD, I'd much rather have a RWD car, if not for anything more than the better turning circle.

[@alexanderstefanov6474]

@@ianjames3078 IMHO the ioniq 6 is beautiful. If I can I'll stretch to the LR AWD, if not an MG4, the problem is MG don't have dealers in Bulgaria so I'll be fucked in the unlikely event something goes wrong

[@ianjames3078]

@@alexanderstefanov6474 in the likely event! Mine is already in the garage. 🤬

[@justbrowsing7565]

The MG4 is a ground up EV, it handles better, it looks better, it's 10k cheaper. Even with more boot space I can't see how Kia could beat the MG4.

[@Richard482]

Have you driving them both?

[@justbrowsing7565]

@@Richard482 well I own one and tried the other.

[@Richard482]

@@justbrowsing7565 Cool. I own one. We haven't tried the other.

[@itechtalk03]

Personally not a huge fan of MG although yes they’ve improved on looks and features and overall value for money. I much prefer the Niro’s design, interior and overall quality.

[@bill_heywood]

Really enjoyed this video, this kind of cross shopping advice is very helpful to people looking for a C segment EV I like the Niro EV when I sat in it (not had a test drive) my frustrations were - not a bespoke platform, so it has that transmission tunnel and no idea why Kia didn't upgrade the DC charging. Otherwise a very nice car, and I'm sure owners love them If you can afford a high spec Niro - over £40k - then you have loads of other options, but if you can only afford a base model, then you are doing without comforts like heated seats, heated steering wheel, powered drivers seat and vegan leather seats. And you are paying £4,500 more for the privilege than the top spec MG4, or, if you aren't bothered by those things, then it's £8,000 more than an MG4 SE long range. That's a lot of cash

[@joebooth67]

The new Niro has kept the powertrain from the old Niro + kia didn't upgrade the charge speed because they didn't want it stepping on the toes of the EV6

[@markosborne1740]

@@joebooth67 Absolutely, or the smaller EV4 that is coming next year... The fact that the MG4 has a much smaller boot and no capacity for a roof load at all is a simple deal breaker. As they said in the video, it actually compares to the ID.3 in size, which is tiny

[@SirGregory]

@@joebooth67 As a rule-of-thumb, if something does not make sense then it's a marketing decision. The true cost differential is negligible, as BMW have revealed with their fully-featured cars with everything switched off unless you take out a subscription.

[@badchefi]

Hyundai didn’t improve their DC charging because they already had the largest battery recall in automotive history. They are playing it save as they don’t want to loose any more billions$$$.

[@Mk1Laser]

@@badchefi it isn't the same battery!

[@ozskeeter]

with a significant price difference hard to justify a head to head comparison ... you mention this.

[@YSA920]

In Australia the Kia Niro EVs are AUD65k and AUD72k for the GT line, both before on roads. By comparison the base MG4 51kWh LFP battery are AUD38.9k before on roads, 64kWh with 360 deg camera, Sat Nav, 18” wheels about AUD48. The 77kWh model is about AUD55k. So here you pay thru the nose for Korean EVs. I have a MG4 X-power on order.

[@nigelpage612]

The small boot on the MG4 lets it down. The faster charging and price are the plus points. The Kia e-Niro has a nicer interior, much bigger boot and solid reputation. For many price will be the main factor. If you compare the MG4 against the VW ID3 or Cupra Born it is a winner. VW has to be worried especially given all their IT issues.

[@dainispozins4172]

Not everyone has to transport 2-3 children and all kinds of stuff at the same time! The MG4 is the new best value electric car at a reasonable price, well suited to a fairly significant segment of electric car users...There is no need to pay a lot more money just for a brand name badge and unnecessary trunk space...

[@carlomorischi3435]

Maybe it is to get a car with is safer, more reliable, more pleasurable and not built in coal-powered assembly plant in China by a company that has no interest in the environment. Also, E-Niro is not the only option, look for Volkswagen ID.3, Cupra Born and Renault Meganne E-Tech, Citroen e-C4 and Peugeot e-308

[@T16MGJ]

@@carlomorischi3435 Hahaha.. So please explain why most UK roads and car parks are full of Cars designed and made by the grand and great grandchildren of folks who back in the day, tried to kill me and my family! Actually did manage to do that to thousands of Londoners and other UK folks back then. No fossil fuel content in the production of German, French and Korean automotive product. None bought from Putin's massive reserves of fossil fuels either. Finally, I bet I've planted more trees in the former much more greener and pleasant than you and all the other green meanies. Climate VARIATION has always been. Here in the UK, poke your head outside the door over the past few days and feel all those deep inches of snow warmed up globally.

[@lianghelena2821]

In Ireland the MG4 top model is 34.5k, the Niro only one option which is around 42.5k, we have the older version of Niro, the front drive is a bit dangerous in wet condition for me, I will book a test drive for the MG

[@trentgashi5943]

unfortunately you are comparing apples and oranges with these two cars. yes there is a big price difference (10k ish) however the Niro is an SUV so therefore, having see and driven both cars, it has more space, more practicality and is just much better in terms of build quality. Sure this EV4 is a great value car, but it's more in line with the Cupra Born and ID3 in terms of competition. For a lot of people who will splash the cash on the Niro, it will be because of the space and build quality which the EV4 lags behind in.

[@RicoZed]

hum ...not really in same category, in France, the Kia E Niro EV starts at 44.490€ (from Kia website) and the MG4 starts at 28 990€ (from MG website) 😀

[@philgornall]

Completely agree, it’s a ludicrous comparison to be honest. The Kia Niro is clearly a bigger and better car, it’s obviously going to be more money. Niro should be compared to other SUVs

[@jamesgilbart2672]

Another thing that sets the MG apart is that it's not yet another SUV

[@SladeBling]

I'm in Thailand and they've got 2 versions of the MG 4 here(D and X). They both have the 51kWh battery. The upper model MG4 here in Thailand is the X, which cost about 20,000 pounds, approx 7,000 pounds less than the U.K. version.

[@eddo8762]

I think the ground up styling is better overall. The older MG ZS and Kia Niro, the fake radiator grills/where the grills used to be just looks hideous. The blocky buttons on the MG is actually helpful. Big buttons > small buttons > voice control >>> touch screen for anything that you want immediate editing like volume or climate. If your car has the real estate for it, use it. In a way, I kind of liked, and disliked, what non-legacy car manufacturers are doing with styling sometimes, where they look at what people want from cars whereas I feel like the Niro EV is almost for someone who wants things to be the same. I think the main problem here is that legacy manufacturers are still using their name recognition to sell cars at a mark up and can continue to do so until all their traditional competitors plus Tesla compete in price. The MG4 while is expensive, is a large amount cheaper than Kia who traditionally fought in the lower mid-ter market despite having a similar power unit. Most manufacturers is still fixated on Tesla 3, where they price themselves accordingly next to it. To a certain extent, it makes sense because because they can't make enough to saturate the market. But on the other, this really leaves it wide open for MG and BYD as well in some markets to drive right in and establish themselves. Before long, they are the established competitor. I am willing to pay a slight premium for a Kia over MG, but not that difference. If MG weren't Chinese owned and the stigma that comes along with it (sometimes rightfully), there be a long short list.

[@JakobusVdL]

CarWow got 7.1sec to 60 with the MG Trophy, which is much quicker than the claimed 7.7

[@petebarnesTaiChi]

It's been great that the first EVs demonstrated very fast luxury motoring (at a price) but I suspect most drivers want a decent car to get from A to B economically, without fuss at a sensible purchase price. Well, either of these cars would fulfill these needs and I would buy either if I was in the market to buy a car at the moment.

[@antoniozerkhfaoui1918]

Not the Kia mate it cost more than Tesla Model Y are the crazy

[@vpnconsult]

What if the gekpolitical connections with change. Could you get parts?

[@grid-panda]

The MG4 EV is called MG MULAN in China, and it was launched in China in September. The price ranges from RMB 129,800 to 186,800, which is roughly equivalent to £16,400 to £24,000.

[@JakobusVdL]

What is the battery tech on each of them? Do they both have thermally managed batteries, and are they less prone to reduction in battery life than a Leaf?

[@richardb2468]

Nicki slates the style while wearing a 1980s hot water cylinder jacket….. still love her tho ❤

[@NickiShields]

Haha Wookie will love you for this. My jacket was debated more than the cars on this shoot! 😅

[@richardb2468]

@@NickiShields don’t worry i have the same one in red….. loving the reviews, keep up the amazing content 👍

[@tomwookieford8445]

you are so right. It was a sleeping bag with a full length zip...

[@richardb2468]

@@tomwookieford8445 it’s time for a new sleeping bag because I’m sure your feet are not supposed to stick out the end 😂

[@htimmermans1938]

@@richardb2468 it is upside down

[@finn.hermansen]

I enjoy the way you present all these electric cars - Thank you and greetings from Denmark 👌👍💗

[@tomwookieford8445]

hello! Oh, you meant Nicki, didn't you... ?

[@finn.hermansen]

@@tomwookieford8445 😅🤣😂Yes, her too, Tom No, I actually think you make some super good reviews and comparisons. So thanks for that 👍🙃😉

[@karlin_oriley]

The MG4's front is a beauty. Very sporty and aggressive looking. Love it

[@CastleKnight7]

Yeah, it’s a good looking car and when you consider the range, equipment and price it’s hard to beat.

[@dcvariousvids8082]

That front spoiler is just designed to break legs. I wonder if insurance premiums will reflect this.

[@TheOnlyJizz]

Is the Niro it's closest competitor though? Pretty sure you said it was the same size as an ID3

[@Richard482]

They've also made a video comparing those two cars.

[@devongee1776]

The Niro's interior is actually insane to me. I know that cars generally of the same maker share a lot of their interior components with eachother but the EV6 that is present in this vehicle is immense. It's not just the steering wheel and the gear selector/center console area. The doors look exactly the same, the screens, while smaller to give some purpose for choosing an EV6, are in the same orientation. The climate controls, the hazard light button, on and on. Wow. This thing is literally a baby EV6! Don't feel like I've seen such an interior with this little bit of change between entirely different models & platform before.

[@sal1nger]

Yup. I own an EV6 dual motor, and the interior on this Niro looks impressively similar. I also love how the exterior looks completely different from the EV6 but equally modern and distinctive (like the IONIQ 5 vs 6). Hyundai and KIA aren't playing it safe with design.

[@johnchristmas7522]

No one is Chinese (MG) the other Korean!

[@bumpkini30]

Not sure we needed reminded that in order to get all the tech you need to buy the top spec models. Blanking plates where switches are on others? Hasn't that always been the case?

[@redjohn20001]

I prefer the Kia Niro, I can afford the MG 4. The price of electric cars has gone absolutely crazy!

[@MarkAtkin]

13:35 Do you have to program the regen into a button each time you turn it on, or is it a once only job?

[@ianrob4760]

this was the exact choice I made and in the end the MG4 won because frankly with a company car I had to top it up and thus the money was key. I used to have a Niro Hybrid so was very difficult to move from Kia but simple on cost.

[@MUFCSINCE90]

I have an MG4 SESR Had it 8 weeks I’m still alive-just and have ordered a Kia Niro EV 2 and am Swapping. 👌

[@dainispozins4172]

The MG4 should rather be compared to the ID.3, and etc...

[@bubba842]

Well the price of the MG will blow the ID.3 out of the water.

[@LCOF]

Now all we need is for MG to build an quirky retro ID-Buzz competitor.

[@tren133]

Well MG is building the Sporster, which will be the cheapest EV roadster on the market (though it will still be somewhat expensive). Which is even cooler!

[@jonathantaylor1998]

Great twin-test of 2 extremely important and influential EVs - albeit for different reasons. For me, the MG4 wins - but then resource-wasteful, over-indulgent SUVs are absolutely not my my thing. That aside, might I suggest a slight adjustment to your twin-test format, please? I think you might get more 'debate' if you were both inside both cars - so, for example in this particular test, Wookie drives the MG4 with Nicki as passenger... then swap over seats for the Niro EV. Just a thought... 👍

[@tomwookieford8445]

I have suggested this - it's a time thing usually. And Nicki just talks over everything as she doesn't respect me.

[@ecurb10]

Maybe it's a different in the UK, but here in Australia the MG4 (when it arrives here) is set to be in the low $40,000s ("affordable"), but the Kia Niro EV starts at almost $70,000! (Hardly "affordable"). Maybe there's a cheaper variant there? (Also - small thing - regarding the MG4's styling: "I think they've completely rewritten the rule book..." (2:50) - yea nah, don't think so. It looks practically identical to any one of a multitude of older/existing hatches out there, especially the 2010 Mazda 3, but also the current Corolla, and yes the Leaf. Very generic I would've thought...but that is subjective I guess.)

[@jeffcartwright7270]

Hang on a bit here folks !. Why are we comparing a five door low ride 5 door hatchback in the MG4, with a elevated higher ride height, of the e.Nero small SUV / crossover here. They are in different totally different market segments right ?.

[@Electrifyingcom]

Real car buyers don't think like that Jeff. On our site, we can see people are directly comparing these two cars.

[@jeffcartwright7270]

@@Electrifyingcom Can you please offer the wealth of your motoring knowledge and expand on what the hell is a "REAL Car Buyer ?". I am struggling to understand why anybody who purchases a car ( new or used ) is not regarded as "Real Car Buyer" in your eye's ?. If certainly feels like that, when you are handing over your hard earned cash. Maybe, because you are lucky enough to given cars to drive for free on a daily basis, then are you classing yourselves as a NON "Real Car Buyer" ?. If so, then I would have to totally agree with you. I have both owned / driven and worked on a huge number cars for over 50 years to date, so I think it is fine to regard myself be as a "Real Car Buyer" by now surely. Maybe people ARE using the channel for looking / comparing both of these two models in a back to back fashion. But honestly, they fall into two completely different categories. The MG4 is a lower ride height 5 doors hatchback, where the e.Nero has a higher ride height of a small crossover / small SUV. Any mobility issues could rule out the lower ride height of the MG4 but not the e.Niro for this one reason alone. I guess because they are both EV's then they do have that in common at least.

[@T16MGJ]

@@jeffcartwright7270 Speaking as an unreal someone who has REALLY bought cars over several decades. I agree 100% with you on this Jeff. It is an apples and kettle of fish comparison. Non pears allowed. Even nice pairs. 👀😉

[@justinschultz4325]

We don't get MG in the USA, but it looks like it has the specs to sell here. I'm content with my quicker Bolt EV, even though it might combust into flames soon.

[@youmaarludwig5647]

You don't have Chinese cars in USA because America is probably going to attack China next.... 😊 Neverending story

[@Richard-io9xe]

The MG is very good value for an EV and will make a strong impression in the sales charts because, for a lot of people, that brings an EV into their affordability range because they can't afford to go higher than that and therefore, EVs have been out of range up to now. If my budget topped out at mid high 20's k then I would take a look. But, by all accounts, comments from real people who have tried them out indicate that they are priced at what they are worth because they feel cheap in lots of ways. I am not sure the comparison with the Niro works. Yes, the Niro is more expensive. That's because it's a FAR nicer car. In 3 years, if you go for the MG when you could have afforded to go higher, its likely to grate with you that you 'cheaped out'.

[@moonshine3333]

First time to this channel and really enjoyed the presenters and the content BUT … the criticisms! Tom … noisy wheel arches? Seriously? No other review has mentioned it and Nicki … nowhere to put your handbag? Again, seriously? We’ve owned Jags, Mercs, LandRovers etc etc (as in BIG cars)and if she thinks she needs it my wife’s bag sits in the passenger footwell or rear seat. That’s it! Finally your mum and re-gen … she wouldn’t want to fiddle with a preset button in the MG but would use paddles in the Kia. Don’t think so from what else you said about her. Never mind … as I said I enjoyed it and have liked and subscribed.👍

[@Salty3439]

Skip to 15:49, Thank me later... Still too expensive 😞😢😢😢😔

[@ashtaroth1975]

I think comparing the MG to the id 3 is more accurate

[@yzhang9265]

Cannot wait to get my MG4 next week❤😊

[@ianjames3078]

Have done over 1000 miles in my first week of MG4 LR SE. Rapid charging of 142kW, with an average of 96kW between 20-80%, MG have understated these values in their specs. It also has the ability to AC charge at 11kW as they’ve been supplied with EU spec. It’s been very comfortable driving long days. The app - no scheduled cabin heating or no remote heating if it’s plugged in but not charging is a pita! If you want to know anything, ask me…..I’ve spent about 28hrs in the driving seat.

[@totemimaging]

How are you finding the efficiency around town vs dual carriage / motorway driving?

[@kostaskostopoulos2913]

Hello Ian. Did you checked the average consumption?

[@brucekennedy5274]

I hear you get a vehicle to load adapter for it too? Not essential, but another cool box ticked imo.

[@wongcna]

Hi @ian has the SE got reverse camera?

[@adamfry1125]

So you are saying if you are plugged from your overnight charge but not charging you cant preheat the cabin at all?! Thats very concerning for me and my order of an MG4. My i3 does preheating very well

[@djtaylorutube]

@electrifying Nicky, I like your jumper, where's it from please?

[@peteruk8925]

Pity no heat pump available on the MG4 or as optional extra, which will help with range in winter months. Niro, a better bet out of the two for me.

[@slimbo689]

You can schedule just the battery to heat up on the app before you even get in the car which helps if your going to work at the same time each day.

[@IanMcc1000]

The big deal about this, is that they both destroy the Stellantis models in the same price bracket. the e208,2008 the DS models etc. The Niro charging speed isn't completely terrible - apparently it has a good "curve" like the Ariya, meaning you can get that full 80kW for longer.

[@jimmyc38]

It might do but some people like to drive cars that aren’t purely EV. The Stellantis group produce ICE cars and EV on the same platform. They’re realising an e308 soon, again ICE, Hybrid and EV. They don’t do dedicated EV cars so their offerings will appeal to a wider market, before some countries force EV on people. It means they can slowly kill off their ICE range.

[@IanMcc1000]

@@jimmyc38 Yeah, there's plenty of reasons to prefer ICE. I had an e208 which was great, albeit a bit heavy - there are few EVs that you can really chuck about. It was a great town car, but everyone wants the max range for the other travelling they do.

[@giovannialtamore]

@@jimmyc38 You can have a Niro hybrid too, for those that still want to pollute the environment 😏

[@alunhoskins4513]

Time to stop using the ‘affordable’ tag with EV’s. For most people they’re not that yet and I think Presenters lose sight of that in their daily lives. At the lower end of EV prices definitely, but not quite ‘there’ yet to enable the really big switch. Having said that, that day is on its way I think. In the price band that EV’s currently sit though - which is high - the new MG is certainly comparatively good value, excellent in fact. Should do well. And ‘blocky buttons’. Exactly what’s needed. (I’m yet to be convinced by the Austin Allegro steering wheel though😆) Enjoyed the review.

[@bill_heywood]

As a buyer of plenty of bangers - the last car I bought cost just £950 - I am well aware of the joys of affordable motoring. But I am also aware that in order for me to enjoy that low cost purchase, someone had to pay a lot more for those cars new. I'm about to go EV, in an MG4 as it happens, and that's a privilege but I am happy that in 7-10 years time, it will be that affordable second hand car for someone who needs it. New cars will never be cheap enough for everyone, but they do get there eventually

[@alfrredd]

Does anyone know the usuable battery number of the base model MG4 (51kWh)????

[@garrycroft4215]

EV_database says 50.8

[@alfrredd]

@@garrycroft4215 I guess LFP allows for such a small buffer...

[@garrycroft4215]

@@alfrredd also can be charged to 100% many more times without serious degradation. ✅

[@alfrredd]

@@garrycroft4215 Yeah, that's why I think the base trim is actually a better deal than the top model which has plenty of better competitors at that price range.

[@garrycroft4215]

@@alfrredd I’m a wimp and used to heated seats😁

[@timyoung7561]

Hi we have an mg4 se (standard range) and it does come with privacy glass.

[@kamil6024]

First batch had it fitted accidently, SE SR no privacy glass as standard

[@ArvidNielsen]

Love the dynamics of the two of you!

[@WildReefer]

Worth noting is that the SR MG4 has LFP battery chemistry - meaning you can charge it to 100% on the regular with (almost) no battery degradation. If you take the LR version, that uses regular lithium batteries that you will have to charge to only 80% or so to keep the batteries healthy - meaning that in daily use, the SR at 100% will have about the same range as the LR at 80%. This also means that the cheaper version may be an easier sell second hand due to fewer concerns about battery health for the potential buyer. Perhaps something to consider for some.

[@alfrredd]

Do you know the usuable battery number of the base model MG4 (51kWh)????

[@Lewis_Standing]

Where did you read that? Not heard that anywhere?

[@carlomorischi3435]

LFP batteries perform very poorly in cold weather

[@WildReefer]

@@Lewis_Standing you can find that info online, but instead of MG4, search for the Chinese name, Mulan (and LFP).

[@WildReefer]

@@alfrredd not sure.

[@Pdougie2]

Having said that...... I prefer rear wheel drive over front wheel drive. I which the Niro was rear wheel drive, or all wheel drive.

[@michaelmillis9772]

I picked up the Niro (base spec model, just as shown in the video) and luckily I got it before the prices went up. I got mine for £34.5k I think, which is still more than than the most expensive MG4. Glad I got in before the prices went up. I do love the Kia so far, but the MG4 does look brilliant value

[@ellisrochlin2267]

Why show 2 different sizes cars ??

[@DougHolmes]

Can either of them fit four people and a (standard) wheelchair in?

[@henrikkoukku2896]

MG4 headlights look stylish, but... Kia Niro EV look more better vs MG4. Absolutely!.😉😎

[@WEZ4136]

There’s no heated seats in Niro until trim 3 either so I don’t why the comment was made about the base version of the MG not having them, the only stand out thing I can think of that the Kia has is the heat pump on all Niro EVs but I’m not sure if the MG has the heat pump too.

[@kamil6024]

Yes but worth mention you have to pay extra £950 for heat pump. I also seen nice video comparison Kia Niro EV with and w/o heat pump. Long story short in UK heat pump not worth it

[@WEZ4136]

@@kamil6024 according to the Kia uk trim spec sheet the heat pump is standard on all Niro EVs, so no extra cost unless they have changed that already, I guess it depends on your location and use in the uk, I’m in the northeast and the heat pump would be a necessity where I am, in the winter we often see -15° through the night and 0 to -6 through the day. Also I don’t have nor want a home charger until I move into a bungalow so the heat pump is of extra benefit to warm the vehicle on a morning without wasting too much power. The Niro is also meant to have the software for battery optimisation if you use the sat bay to find a charger. I do know that the heat pump is an optional extra on the Kona now too, hopefully they will change that for the release of the new version.

[@kamil6024]

@@WEZ4136 just checked on Kia UK website and you have 2 options when spec Niro with or w/o with additional £950 unfortunately. Home charger would resolve you this issue and it cost around this money.

[@ianjames3078]

@@WEZ4136 warming the car takes no more than 1% battery over 10 mins in the morning.

[@craigmck7271]

@@WEZ4136 Heat pumps are an extra now on Niro EV. Also very interested in your location, the northeast gets -15C 'often' ?

[@Glenrsi]

Far prefer the MG4, it looks nice and sporty. The Kia looks like every other station wagon.

[@robincurston7086]

I think because the clip is MG vs Kia all MG owners and fans will go for the MG, if it was Kia vs MG all the Kia owners and fans would go for KIA. I think the MG is better than the NERO 1 and 2 but the 3 and 4 are a lot better but you pay more.

[@timsmith5339]

You talking about how many EVs are settling on 200 horse power as 'the right amount' reminds me of some of the junior supercars I would fantasise about when I was a lad. In reality, cars like the Maserati Merak had less (though they quoted 220 for the SS) and would not have accelerated as quickly as these new cars. How times change and how we quickly get used to what was once 'the bees knees' and demand more.

[@toy2day1]

Are there any diesel editions?

[@hmmmm6164]

I'd pick mg as well. Trophy with all extras still 5k cheaper than basic niro with nothing just plastic buttons with no purpose. Be interesting what MG do with bigger cars in the future tbh. Also matching 7 years warranty you have free motoring. I drive a lexus which I just purchased in 2022 and tbh if I hadn't brought it I would definitely be looking into this MG. Maybe MG as next car if still good price.

[@tradingcardboss]

I think the MG4 as a rep car is a winner plus love it in Orange 🍊

[@paulinewoods375]

Just makes me think of easyJet, lol

[@T16MGJ]

@@paulinewoods375 Does a McLaren in a similar orange do that for you too ..? .. 😃 Someone very famous once said "Do I not like Orange" 😃

[@buzzofftoxicblog791]

Wow mg looking good awd and a Frounk start looking fab 👌

[@Zapurogurama]

We need the boot space for our family. For those who have driven both the MG ZS and the Kia Niro (2023 premium version - called Water here in NZ), IF the price was identical which would you choose and why?

[@joanvila6633]

I’d rather buy the MG4 before Niro ev. I don’t like those new designs where headlights and tail lights are “floating” in a place where the car lights would not have been placed in a more classic design. Also the new design of the Niro ev is more boxier than before, for the price, I think I’ll buy the MG to replace my 17 years old Toyota.

[@Brandofviti]

I love the build quality of the Kia. Easy pick for me.

[@bobmitchell8012]

MG Build Quality is just as good as the KIA, so go and have a look at one before you gob off.

[@matthewb8142]

The steering wheel on the MG looks like an Austin Allegro from the 70's !

[@dcp3o]

My wife and i test drove an nero ev yesterday and really liked it, until we heard about the slow maximum charging rate.

[@tomwookieford8445]

Would you have home charging or do longer journeys a lot? I'm not sure it makes a huge amount of difference, unless you're like me with a very eclectic diary. At which point, you're right!

[@yamyam3905]

Had my Kia Niro self charging hybrid 2 months now and it's a brilliant car , amazing what extras you get .

[@matthewvvl]

How are these two being compared? The MG4 is a direct competitor for the VW ID3, Cupra Born, etc. The Niro EV is in the class of a MG ZS EV, KONA, etc. In Europe the Niro EV starts at 42k euro, the MG4 at 30k euro....

[@T16MGJ]

Precisely. Eggs and Apples scenario. Both good foodstuffs but no real comparison. Oh er. Make that Pears. Instead of Apples.

[@TheRocky3211]

mg4 finally will kick other manufacturers to ditch the artificially inflated prices.