SHOOTOUT: smart #1 vs Kia Niro EV vs MG4. A shock winner? | Electrifying

[@The2follow]

Niro EV, work car and really relaxing to drive and practical and ticks all the boxes for me tbh and choose it based on your reviews 😊

[@Dann14593]

Not biased.. But MG 🧡😘

[@Roobubba]

We have a smart #1, the deal on salary sacrifice was ridiculously good. Have to point out a few things: while you can't change brake regen mode on the fly as easily as the competition, it does save your setting to your profile, along with the memory seats + HUD settings, and all the other settings like easy entry/exit mode, and that's very nice. The interior of the smart isn't just a notch above the Niro EV (or Kona), it's a lot nicer inside. All of them are considerably more nicely put together than the MG, which felt quite cheap, and had quite poor visibility if it wasn't specced with the cameras. The smart has really great room inside - except for that tiny boot, it really is small. Provided you go into any purchase with your eyes open about the compromises that you will inevitably have to make, it's difficult to make a poor choice for an EV these days. We did so many test drives, and on our final test with a second go in the Kona and the Niro EV, and our first go in the smart - all on the same day - we fell in love with the smart, it feels so nice inside and had fewer of the irritating bings and bongs (it still has a couple). Much of the tech it comes with is actually useful, too!

[@Roobubba]

While I think about it, I don't think I've ever even noticed the fox since we got the car!

[@KimParkerAdcock]

Me neither, picked mine up in November and I haven't noticed it since! @@Roobubba

[@decker0373]

Do Smart use the word hashtag? I always see the # symbol as the word "number" which makes sense. Of the 3, I think I'd plump for the MG, range and warranty are very important, I think. All the best for 2024.

[@jeffreyt02]

Yeah they actually use the word hashtag. Which sounds silly 🤦‍♂️

[@decker0373]

@jeffreyt02 thanks @jeffreyt02 and, I agree, it sounds ridiculous 🙄.

[@philipmumford7871]

Yeah "number" or "pound" is how that is used in the US isn't it? In the UK I would also say hash not hashtag. Something got lost in translation somewhere.....

[@markymarkreviews]

The MG4 DOES HAVE 1 pedal driving!

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

And in smart #1 you don’t have to enable it each time so long as you save your driver profile and not just use guest mode

[@loveclose]

Yep - programmable as well if I'm not mistaken. My MG4 arrives next week and I cannot wait!

[@AnthonyJohnston-v7z]

Hashtag 1 for me nice car..😊

[@MandyFlame]

The test I really wanted to see is “parking in a supermarket car park”. A job that a family car has to do on the regular. Visibility, turning circle, parking assist features all come into play. I have an IONIQ 5 - a bigger class of car to be sure - which is let down by the difficulty of getting it into tight spaces. I’m considering downsizing, which is why I watched this comparison video, and the one thing I’m cross shopping on isn’t covered

[@michalklucz6907]

if you don;t want to downsize, check Skoda Enyaq 60. turning circles and cameras are just state of the art.

[@stnicolastaplow4096]

The MG4 has all-round cameras, so accurate that I no longer have to look over my shoulder when reversing, I just watch the cameras, especially the top-down one. Brilliant!

[@garyallsopp6369]

​​@@michalklucz6907 Had my Enyaq for 18 months - I have a really tight driveway and the cameras are good. However, dispite being a great & spacious vehicle, the software & app are appalling, the OTA upgrades are really cynical and a properly kitted one is just too expensive now.

[@octarinehk]

I’m also in an I5 and find it pretty easy to park - the backup camera works pretty well and the mirrors get decent coverage. It is massive though - difficult to park between two range rovers for sure.

[@MandyFlame]

@@octarinehk not helped that I live in York, medieval streets are a little narrow and our car parks are tight.

[@InBodWeTrust]

MG4 - yes you CAN do car-to-car charging ... the V2L is actually capable of delivering 6kW+ provided that you have the right resistor value in your adapter/cable. (It might not be RATED for this, but it is CAPABLE). Plus there may not be a frunk, but a cable will comfortably sit on top of the tray and under the bonnet and stay in place. (That's where mine is kept). MG Assist is also available to new MG cars, AND those that are serviced (from new) each year by MG. So the #1 doesn't win that point either. 🙂

[@martynmorris8160]

There's also plenty of room for the cable under the boot floor on the Trophy.

[@StevenWard-s3d]

I’ve tried to charge my wife’s Zs ev and it cuts out after a few seconds. From my MG4 trophy . How do you do it .?

[@mikemorley2797]

There's a video on here that shows an MG4 charging a Tesla ​@@StevenWard-s3d

[@InBodWeTrust]

@@StevenWard-s3d I've never tried it ... I've based it on the comment that the KIA allows 3.6kW V2L output so can charge another car; I don't think Electrifying have actually tried it so I don't know if that car CAN charge another car. My comment was based on their observation that the MG4 only allows 2.2kW - it doesn't; you can get a much higher output. I suspect the ability or otherwise to charge another car (directly - using a granny lead should always work) will depend on whether the 2 cars will respect the control signals.

[@sailingoctopus1]

​@@StevenWard-s3d I have charged my wife's MG5 at 5.4kW for over an hour from my MG4 V2L using a 32A V2L lead I made up myself (complete with 470A resistor) and a Feyree 32A portable charger. The V2L port on the MG4 tripped off at 32A, but worked fine at 25A, 20A, 16A, 13A, 10A and 8A. If you have problems, it's probably either your charger or the MG4 are checking for continuity between Earth and Neutral

[@martynmorris8160]

MG4 won easily!

[@lenardgor]

Software is crap. Speedometer looks like a cheap Chinese phone display from 2012. Spec wise it's great tho.

[@Collateralcoffee]

Nope. It did not.

[@ridethetalk]

A table comparing the Wh/mi(or km) would have been good. Have a great festive season🎉🎉🎉

[@HoltAlex]

Google the car name followed by evdatabase 😊

[@martynmorris8160]

Comparing a medium hatchback (MG4) to the other two which are SUV's no surprise they are a bit more roomy!

[@robsmith4790]

As a ITU Nurse, the # in my lexicon is short for FRACTURE, as in a # tibia,or # clavicle (collar bone) so I would always call it the Smart Fracture 1. 🤦‍♂️

[@Krydolph]

It was quite a surprise winner, considering the MG4 had it beat on almost everything.

[@michalklucz6907]

because the final question was not 'which is the best value for money' - and then MG is a winner, but, 'you will have to stay with that car for a year' and then the quality and comfort is important. I don;t mind MG4 for a 5min Tesco run. but If I have to commute 2h a day, #1 is a much nicer car to drive.

[@narrowboatlongpod4176]

I have the Niro EV 4 and it's a nice car. My EV journey started with a test drive in an MG ZS LR. I placed my order but gave up after 12 months after worrying stories of changes to build specs, prices, etc.. I did look at the MG4 but i was moving from a Kuga and the MG4 really didn't fit the bill and I didn't really like not having something resembling a "normal" dash. It got to the point where I desperately needed a car as I'd promised the Kuga to my daughter and her car had been scrapped after failing the MOT. I looked around at what was available locally at relatively short notice and test drove the Niro. It was slightly smaller than the MG ZS which, in turn, was smaller than the Kuga (the Niro and Kuga still park next to each other occasionally and the Niro is definitely smaller). Nevertheless, the Niro ticked all the boxes and I placed an order for one that was going to be available for March 1st. I was then informed that it was going to be delayed and went to another dealer who could source me one for March (and that did happen). If I was looking now (about 2 years after my initial journey) then there's a lot more choice but I'm happy with the Niro.

[@n1vca]

Niro EV4??? Do you have a time machine? That is a concept car that has not been manufactured! If we are lucky the production version of the EV4 may be introduced some time in 2024.

[@stockey]

Doesn't exist.@@n1vca

[@harryadam1671]

It is the top of the range Niro EV - I have one - Niro EV4 That's not the same as the Kia EV4@@n1vca

[@harryadam1671]

Me, too - ordered the ZSEV Trophy -days before the gov. grant was removed - took months to come, no communication - so bought it, brought it home (10 miles), and sold it for a profit - transferring the gov. grant to my Niro EV4.

[@n1vca]

@@harryadam1671 Can you explain the difference between the Niro EV and the Niro EV4 and where does it say EV4? Manual, papers, chassis? Maybe that is a US thing, because here in Europe that doesn't seem to exist

[@aakashbrahmbhatt294]

Fair enough, but objectively speaking: Highest range - MG Sportiest - MG And most importantly Best value for money - MG

[@mikey7326]

Also with the worst build quality, bad software and when something does go wrong the dealers haven't a clue.

[@aakashbrahmbhatt294]

@mikey7326 I've owned one for just under 2 months now. Early doors still but no niggles or issues as of yet. As for the build quality, I'd say it's as good as an A4 i owned before this if not better. Software can defo be better, but it's adequate.

[@nbbluemoon1]

@@mikey7326disagree we have a Mg4 Trophy LR, there’s nothing to knock the build quality on.

[@helipeek2736]

Phew! Just ordered my MG4 Extended Range today

[@loveclose]

Congrats on your purchase!! I did the same with the the Long Range Trophy.

[@wvickery2009]

I have the mg 64kw range. It's the middle of both cars. Cost me 30k , bloody good car. But if I was you . Make sure you turn off lane assist. It's awful and forces the car to turn away . That can scare you , especially when over taking a cyclist.

[@helipeek2736]

Took delivery but, four short hours ago, still not overtaken any cyclists yet though.

[@jonperkins8696]

I like the color on the MG....and the range.....and price....wish we had it here. I like that its also not as big. Most people wont by an electric here in the states.....because of the distance of commutes, and lack of charging outside of the metro areas. The Smart number 1 is cute....but the range is a bit low.

[@tomooo2637]

Average commute distance in USA is 41 miles a day. So what is your problem

[@Clove_Parma]

The charging network is MORE than enough for the average daily commute, especially since your charging is 99% at home.

[@stnicolastaplow4096]

A strange result, as the MG4 so obviously beats the other two. The interior is a bit dark, the #1 looks nicer, but apart from that there seems no contest

[@bricktop7803]

Nope, the inside of the MG is horribly dated. The Niro has the best interior of all.

[@mentality-monster]

#1 is ugly. So it loses on all fronts.

[@jonsykes8780]

MG4 interior spec is way behind the Kia. I have kids who would kill me if I chose a car without heated rear seats.

[@mentality-monster]

@@jonsykes8780 They can walk if they don't like the seats. What a joke.

[@user-fh4ce8ty9y]

I love my Niro EV. I recommend it to my family and friends.

[@ricco123tube]

It is a good car, but as I have recently been having some test drives to help me choose my next car, I have to agree with the ladies that the Niro is a tad boring, noisy and on long journeys terribly slow to charge, especially in cold weather. Oh, and no heat pump.....

[@peterengland6153]

Something is wrong with UK & EU pricing. £40K are you mad, here in NZ a Tesla Model 3 Highland is £35K drive away price. My MG4 51 Excite was £19,300 drive away.

[@benellis7427]

I know it’s outrageous but here in the UK most people lease (apart from me it seems) so all they care about is monthly cost. We’re used to being ripped off.

[@Tom55data]

Tarrifs on China imports hurt uk market pricing. Kills pricing on all China sourced evs, that is most , including BMW and volvo.

[@MandyFlame]

We’re paying 20% VAT and there are no subsidies, which doesn’t help pricing.

[@benellis7427]

@@Tom55data Yet they are still the cheapest. It’s all cars that have had a ridiculous price hike.

[@Tom55data]

@@MandyFlame all of europe pays 20 % vat. Usa hast stupid extras which are not included in the price.

[@jonsykes8780]

EuroNCAP are now so obsessed with "driver aids" that actual safety means nothing. The Kia loses a star because the autonomous emergency braking isn't the best. You know, that feature the 99% of cars on the road don't even have. You can survive a crash, that'll get you a star, no camera monitoring your eyes? That'll cost you a star. The bings and bongs that car reviewers complain about aren't the choice of manufacturers, they're what the EU demand. Look over your shoulder when joining a motorway at 70mph? Bing. Avoid a pothole and cross the white line? Bong. Swerve to avoid a puddle and not soak a baby in a pram? Bing! Plough through and get a fine and 3 points. Safety "features"are now so annoying they are becoming a danger. You get so annoyed with the bongs they have to fiddle with various menus to turn them off. More dangerous than driving close to a white line.

[@omsam8930]

Not biased. Coz I have one. Mg4. Smart #1 I nice looking car too. Thank God we didn't have that here in indonesia for me to pick...

[@yoda-1551]

MG4 Xpower is listed at £36,495. Should have used that instead of the Trophy if the rules were "under £40k".

[@bernardhilton3527]

Externally the MG looks good but IMHO the inside is drab. The hashtag looks very good inside and out but unfortunately the boot / luggage carrying isn’t enough for me. Having been inside the Kia I have decided it is too big for my garage. I have ordered the new Kona. It is big enough, I enjoyed driving it and it will be a step up from my 2020 Corsa e.

[@sarahaubrey8096]

How did you enjoy the Kona? Is it a driver’s car, what’s the ride quality, boaty, sporty?

[@paultaroni7201]

When I test drive the MG I found it really dark inside and a bit less refined that the Ioniq I'm used to

[@bricktop7803]

Good choice. The Kona is excellent. The styling is a bit weird, but inside is brilliant!

[@KimParkerAdcock]

Hubby has the Kona, all be it hybrid, and I have the #1. We both love our cars and each other's there isn't much between them.

[@jonsykes8780]

The Niro is the same width and 3.5cm longer than a Kona. "Feels" isn't a good way to judge car sizes, obviously.

[@PhiLPHiL]

Can't wait for MG Cyberster.

[@phil9361]

Why did you not choose the fast, 4 wheel drive version of the MG. More compatible on price, like for like. You can't compare a £42;000 car with a £31,000 car

[@Krydolph]

How is it more compareable in price, when the extended rage and xpower cost the same?

[@sailingoctopus1]

​@@KrydolphAnd both can be had for around £30k if you shop around or are eligible for Affinity Discount (hint anyone can become eligible by joining the MG Owners Club for £45)

[@urbanstrencan]

My choice would be MG 4 XPower in green, love that MG actually offers some bright colors like orange, and blue,... :) ;)😍😍

[@Joe-lb8qn]

I don't understand 7.4kW AC charging being talked about as a problem. First, very few private homes can supply more than that, second who's going to be charging from 0 to 100 in 12 hours overnight? If this something you need often because of lots of mileage, get a tesla. (non tesla owner saying this)

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

“Destination” chargers may supply AC up to 22 kW. Probably not a deal barker for most but a nice thing to have.

[@bricktop7803]

Oh I dont know. My DNO upgraded my power infrastructure to 3 phase for my EV charger. My car only does 11Kw max, so its wasted at the moment, they ae just future proofing.

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

@@bricktop7803 like many other features some are more important to some than others. Did you have to pay for the upgrade to three phase?

[@eurimcoplimsoll1117]

Hmmh , those prices are close to the entry Tesla Model 3 ( the RWD one ) - if you don't need a hatchback and can live without indicator stalks ( maybe a big ask ) then maybe the facelifted Tesla- it will be more efficient, better range , faster, decent tech, app and charging plus full availability of the Tesla Supercharging network.

[@aerox69x]

That’s the problem a lot of the manufacturers will have (and one I’ve had recently)I have a model 3 and was looking at a similarly priced electric car for my partner, and there really isn’t much competition around its price.

[@dbas2]

What would the result have been if you’d included the Meghan eTech?

[@Gr1ff1D0]

The Kia Nero ranks 28 on the Car Magazine list, so I will stick with my choice of the MG4 (ranked 4). To me it makes much more sense to pick a car designed to be an EV from the ground up. Feel free to pick whatever you want from these 3. Just don’t expect us to follow your decision.

[@maverlk7]

No shock! you almost always pick the opposite winner to every other reviewer.

[@amigang]

If I had to go ev right now, it be the mg4, but I feel just hanging on just another year or two, there is going to be so much more choice and there all likly to be a bit more refined and hopefully increase competition and healthier second hand market there be cheaper

[@christian75g]

Why do you mean car play needs to be setup each time for smart? Were you in guest mode instead of having your users each with their settings?

[@chrispenn715]

The Smart reminds me of Playmobil.....

[@eugene__eugene]

Lol... I can see the comparison. I just bought one and now you make me think to put the pointy yellow hair below the roofhat 😂

[@clausfh]

The menu system in the Kia Niro EV is better than Apple Carplay. I never use Carplay at all in my Niro EV. And mine has 5 stars Euro NCAP.

[@ashtaroth1975]

Volcano Orange for the win

[@SWR112]

Let’s hope battery tech marches on and they become cheaper. These Cars under 30k perfect.

[@stevieguk8014]

Must be one of the most amateur reviews on KZbin. Why include a car that you then say is too expensive to be considered. Don’t they do their homework? Also there are Kia Niros that fall within the arbitrary sum set. The Niro is a proper family car whereas the others are in a segment below with small boot space etc.

[@yingmustang67]

The New Kia, I don't like the front. I recently bought the e Niro 2019 Executive line 64 KWh with low mileage on and with a great deal! I rather have the face lift (2020), but the deal was great. I'm very happy about it!

[@billywakwabi4758]

Add the BYD Atto3 next time 😂

[@just_chris1630]

Or the mg zs EV, it really shows how good the mg4 is that they are comparing it to small SUVs.

[@EliotHochberg]

Does the Niro come with a free froghurt?

[@RB-lt8kt]

The Smart looks like the roof of a Vauxhall Adam, body of a MINI and rear of a Mercedes. Kia looks a bit Range Rover ish with Citroen lights. The MG looks cheap Chinese with a bit if Toyota Yaris at the back. I would buy a Cupra Born or ID3.

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

I normally like your reviews but this video hade quite a few factual inaccuracies. I’m sure you can do better

[@paultaroni7201]

Lets look at the insurance groups shall we, my current Ioniq 38kwh premium se group 17, Atto 3 in comfort trim 38 Dolphin in design trim 33 MG4 trophy long range 29 MG4 trophy extended range 33 Megane e tech techno + 25 Smart #1 premium 32 Niro in 3 trim 29 Kona 64kwh advance 31 Why? Whats changed since my ioniq was made?

[@sharonsweeney9710]

Insurance companies have seen the high uptake of EVs and are now cashing in

[@returner323617]

As a new Smart #1 owner, I'm clearly biased/opinionated, but it's the obvious winner. A correction: in addition to two levels of "coasting" regen (which are saved to the actual driver's profile), it also has an S-Pedal setting for genuine one-pedal driving. The quality is very impressive, so unless you really want the cheapest, the Smart offers great value. I also considered the Volvo EX30, but I could get the Smart for ~£6k less on a 3-year PCP deal. Oh, and we call ours "Rafa", because we think the front looks a bit like a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle and being black-over-red, the obvious choice is Raphael. We purchased the Smart as a replacement for a much-loved BMW i3, and so we were looking for a combination of quality, and great tech, but with better range.

[@darcsentor]

Could you do a story where you dig into owning one of these? E.g if there is a fault how long to the manufactures that to fix it? Any known issues? Software updates etc. want to know which manufactures you can trust to fix your car and help if there is an issue.

[@davidfogg1845]

Agreed, the smart should be called the smart 1

[@stuartneal831]

The smart looks like an old fashioned pram from the side

[@richardw64]

I am a big fan of KIA and if I could afford an EV, would buy one. But I also hope that all the other EVs are good quality, as well. A very good presentation, ladies.

[@gasman6163]

nice video, but unaffordable for jo public. The interior of the SMART is hideous, especially the concrete wall (whoops I mean central tunnel)

[@gaiusvarro4692]

You can get a Tesla for £40k!

[@Brian-om2hh]

Assuming you want one that is. Not everybody does...... I looked at a Model 3 pre-pandemic, but decided it wasn't for me. I chose another make. No regrets over 3 years in...and still have almost 4 years warranty left to run.

[@EliotHochberg]

Here in the US, we have very few Chinese manufactured vehicles. I think it’s Volvo, Polar, and maybe there’s some Teslas? I’m not sure. A big question that I have, however, one that I think is valid, is how is the customer service for the Chinese vehicles? In other words, we know that Tesla customer service and maintenance is pretty challenging here in the states, it’s not uncommon for a Tesla to be completely totaled in any accident, and getting any kind of repairs on them is kind of ridiculous. For gas cars, you have a wide array of options for repair for maintenance and for accidents, at least for vehicles older than 10 years old. Not sure how that applies to newer gas vehicles within infotainment systems and potentially the ability to also have over the air updates. So my question is, if something goes wrong with the MG or the smart what’s it like dealing with the customer service for those companies who manufacture their vehicles in China? And as a secondary potential issue, have you encountered any issues with information collection or over the air updates with any of the Chinese made cars that you’ve tested?

[@harryadam1671]

# is not only referred to as hashtag but also (especially in the USA) as number. So the name is probably intended to be Smart number 1. Aside from that trivia - Niro has it for me - neither of the others is acceptable in boot space. The Niro is also roomier in the cabin. As for looks - I like it better, too. It also has by miles the best regren system.

[@dogsbodyish8403]

And why is it referred to as "hashtag" these days - it always used to be just "hash".

[@treborheminway3814]

The smart rear roof line looks like a cap and center console makes me claustrophobic just watching the video. Please include battery mfg, cell form factorand chemistry. For me, LG Chem NMC prismatic is a liability. Byd blade or Catl LFP is a bonus. Especially their newest varients.

[@keefbigman]

What a waste of time that was. Not on balance at all. Clearly the MG4 is the most complete, affordable & practical choice. The Smart Naff1 shouldn’t have even been in the competition. Far more sensible cars to put against the other two.

[@bricktop7803]

These 3 presenters beat everyone else on the car scene. Ginny and Nicola are the best. If they are not presenting cars, I dont watch anyone else. I've test driven all of these cars, and the Niro is by far the best. But the Kona does beat them all. I ended up buying an Ioniq 5 Ultimate. It is fantastic and still learning all about it. It has real buttons and switches. It beat my model 3 hands down in every respect. By far the best feature is the HUD. As a safety feature - it should be standard on every car.

[@snootbritton]

Would avoid buying from the Chinese government. MG also looks cheap. Kia or Smart for me.

[@spoenk7448]

I drove behind a Smart #1 yesterday. It's not as stupid looking in real life but I think #1 is still a stupid name.

[@humphj]

The inside of the MG is so dated with far too much crap plastic. It may be good value and a nice drive but the interior letsit down.

[@nicholasrigg8999]

Don't forget the # symbol is also short for 'number'. Smart Number One makes much more sense, or just Smart One.

[@denw709]

MG4 got my vote

[@dominikrak72]

Ladies, where are metric units?

[@Rafaelinux]

Why not just call it the number one?

[@daholmes1]

Tesla ugly inside and out, too minimal. The lack of indicators, drivers centric binnacle display and some physical buttons and penny pinching, unforgivable and would always stop me buying one.

[@judithkitchingman4419]

Good decision girls. Get over the name is so much better than the Honda I can’t even pronounce. I love my Premium with touch interior. Xxx

[@zosozoso2]

The Smart seems great, design, driving comfort, and the fastest charging speed of them all.

[@davesoton20]

I would consider the Tesla instead at sub £40k. MG4 residuals 😂 Did anyone research that? Never buy new when they lose over 30% immediately. The extended range being sub £30k nearly new and SE sub £20k nearly new. Now thats value that helps ignore all the buggy and featureless software.

[@benrgrogan]

When did that change? I've seen several articles (both from auto journalists and leasing companies) listing the MG4 as one of the lowest depreciating EV's on sale. A quick look at autotrader suggests these "SE sub £20k nearly new" MG4 are all the old spec models, seem to be mostly pre-registered as a discount due the fact they were already outdated when they first arrived in the UK (and even then still over 75% of their original value). Also cant find any of these extended range that are nearly new and sub £30k, all are above £31k most above £32-£37k. Can find plenty of nearly new or low mile model 3's in the £27k-£33k range though.

[@patrickh7368]

I’m a Hyundai/Kia fan … my Hyundai EV is fabulous… but that model is ruled out completely because the charge port is on the front… shame.. I understand the MG’s don’t save personal settings so driver has to re set every time you switch on ! Have they fixed that yet..? 🤔

[@benrgrogan]

I thought the only bit of information the MG4 didn't save was the active safety information, which was because of Euro Ncap regulation

[@patrickh7368]

@@benrgrogan thanks but that’s worried me as I thought NCAP was about crash testing, confusing how personalised settings effect that..? My car got that dangerous lane assist switched off 1st week of ownership, 5 years later still off… I know reviewers get frustrated having to keep going through settings every time they switch on … but should I find out more…?

[@benrgrogan]

@@patrickh7368 NCAP basically don't want it to be easy to turn off/want it to default on every time someone restarts the car because they think it should be safer. It was a policy brought in within the last few years so any cars older than that should remember the operators preference.

[@musicchap]

I’d take the smart home myself ✌🏼

[@graemetaylor629]

why would you not have a home charger when you front an ev channel ?

[@pkstrong1]

Live in a flat in the centre of London maybe?

[@MarkGaudie]

May I add also that the Smart #1 coming with heat pump it will get more range than the MG4 in winter guaranteed.

[@KentBuchla]

Again, 2 of these vehicles share your data with he CCP by law!

[@barriedear5990]

Bit harsh to judge the car with biggest battery for taking longer to charge at home on 7kW! More meaningful would be miles added per hour on 7kW, ie. a rating of efficiency.

[@EliotHochberg]

It’s pretty fascinating that people consider the Kia designed to be conservative. Honestly, if you saw that car 10 years ago, you would think it was wild. There are so many different lines increases and surfaces, it may seem same to cars that are released in the last five years, but it’s not conservative. There’s all sorts of risks that are being taken. The smart is kind of bar of soap. If I was given one for free I wouldn’t complain, and I’m sure I wouldn’t complain if it was the car I could afford, but it just feels like a smooth stone. Nothing wrong with smooth stone. It just doesn’t do anything for me. And then the MG kind of has a little bit of a retro future Italian flare. It kind of echoes a Lamborghini in a way

[@richardblakey3345]

I have a Kia Niro EV4. was lucky to get it under £40K on a ‘friends and family deal’ If this is about finding a medium size family car then most of this review is irrelevant. I have gone from a Volvo XC60 T8 and so obviously notice the huge difference in power and acceleration. But the Niro is fast enough for what I need. Take off 1-pedal driving and put in sport mode and easily quick enough out of difficult junctions. The boot is just big enough for 2 of us taking two big suitcases and hand luggage to the airport; there is no way we would manage with the MG4 or #1 without having to put luggage on the rear seat. The slow charging would be an issue if we did more long journeys, but my longest regular journey is 200 miles visiting the Isle of Wight with dreadful charging facilities but I never have to charge publicly on that journey. Real work range has been as good as 300 miles in the summer on A and B roads in Sussex. Most people needing a car this size would go for the Kia for practicality. Finally, in the rare cold snaps here, good luck getting the RWD cars out of your estate road in snow and ice, even with the better balance of weight in a BEV. Given the choice again I would still go for the Kia. It should have faster charging and I wish it had the 800V battery architecture with faster AC charging & V2G/V2H capability but that is not a major issue. When Kia need to sell their EV3 and EV4 cheap to avoid the Tories fines of £15K per vehicle I may change if charging is faster and it comes with other kit like 360’ camera.

[@stephentwarner]

Nicola - '"I like the fact that the charge port is right at the front..." No! No! No! Any good driver, especially someone who drives for a living, knows that it's far safer, and usually more convenient, to drive forwards out of a drive or parking bay rather than to reverse out. A front charging port is an absolute no-no for me. If you're not sure about this, think it through, and have a peek at the Highway Code. In brief, seeing where you're reversing and doing it there and then is a whole lot better than climbing in, belting up, starting up, and hoping that in the meantime nobody's child has wandered behind your car. Especially your own, which happened to someone I know. Other than that, a great review -thanks to all of you.

[@narrowboatlongpod4176]

I think that "family car" owners like to drive into spaces because it gives easy access to the boot to load shopping. It also avoids issues when you drive past the space and the car behind takes it. The Kia definitely won't let you reverse if there is anything anywhere near the rear and this is quite often one of the complaints that it does "an emergency stop".

[@lastfour]

MG would be the first for me, Smart in 2nd position. I don't like the Kia.

[@mrakronyahoo]

Would love to see a shoot out between Smart 1 vs Ex-30. Please please!

[@dojascat3391]

You should do a Smart #1 vs Volvo EX30 vs Renault Megane E-Tech (or Zeekr X when it comes to the UK)!! Merry Christmas Electrifying team 🎄

[@Piner5074]

If you’ve a family with 2 or 3 kids you’ll know all space is a premium, so Niro EV is almost an automatic choice out of these three. The other two are more for 1 child families, or empty nesters solely because of size of boot.

[@UKMacMan]

Smart looks like a upscale Citreon inside... Kia... well... its dull... and the MG is trying to be Tesla inside, but on a budget... The MG looks better on the outside than the other two, the tech you get with it (even if the LKA tries to kill you) is way better than the other two... and the minimalist interior hasn't done Tesla any harm, so not a bad approach for MG to go. I would say this about the MG... no rear cabin light, and while there are speaker casing, there are NO SPEAKERS IN THE BACK of the base SE MG4..... I'm going to be getting an MG4 in the next few months I think.

[@Neofolis]

Here's an idea, you don't have to call it the Hashtag 1, because that's not it's name. It's name is the Number 1. I don't understand why everyone insists on calling it Hashtag 1 and then complaining about it, when it's name is Smart Number 1. I realise the symbol is a Hashtag, but when you see M&S do you say M ampersand S or M and S.

[@hishamg]

Excellent review, Of the 3 it would be the Kia Niro EV for me; it's a practical family car (we have 3 kids and a dog), a hatchback, which is useful for trips to Ikea, the tip and the dog can sit in the boot when the kids are in the back, and not too big, so relatively easy to park. The only downsides are the slow rapid charging which would be a bit of a pain on long journeys and having to pay extra for the heat pump. I also can't afford to buy new, so I would either get it second hand or lease it. The MG4 would be my second choice, practical and has decent range. I have no interest at all in the Smart, it seems very gimicky to me. The Kia EV6 and Hyundai Ioniq 5 charge much faster, but as well as costing more are both absolutely humongous by British standards, which makes them pretty impractical near where I live (lots of terraced houses and very tight parking). The new Hyundai Kona would also suit me, but they don't seem to be out yet. Teslas are very good, but they are too big for me (difficult to park on narrow congested streets), the M3 is not a hatchback, the MY is expensive and massive, and the insurance on them is pretty steep, although they do have their amazing supercharger network.

[@hardywoodaway9912]

like the Niro too, but it’s way too expensive for what it is

[@hishamg]

@@hardywoodaway9912 True, I reckon the basic 2 model should be under £30,000. Second hand you can get the 3 for about £30,000-£32,000. Or lease one.

[@loveclose]

Thoroughly enjoyable review until you picked the winner!!!! Sorry, but the MG4 wins hands down. Nobody mentioned the entry level SE standard and SE Trophy versions which both retail under £30,000. I personally feel that the extended range trophy version isn't worth having over the long range trophy at around 3k extra giving you around 40 miles extra. The pick of the range for me is the Long Range Trophy at around £33k. Good to see the other two vehicles, but the MG should have won!!!!!

[@pauldummett8675]

your choice needs to be more based on facts and figures rather than the modern Mr Blobby is a bit cute. The MG is the better car, more range, better value, more bang for your buck, more sporty AND you don't have to choose Orange ;-)

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

Drab interior on the MG put me off. I went for the #1 because it’s so packed with features and finished to great standard. Had I been planning to travel long distance often I would have to consider MG.

[@johnknight9150]

MG all day. It's the only one that doesn't scream Bridget Jones' enormous granny pants. And MG have actually been taking us seriously in Australia, where everyone else treats us as a dumping ground.

[@tonnysmeets963]

After seen is all, i’m quiet pleased with the Hyundai Kona 2024 model

[@patpong5873]

the smart#one is 0-60 6.7 not 7.4s !

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

On paper it’s 6.7 but in every test I’ve seen on KZbin it was actually under 6 seconds.

[@gaborshamsan9545]

And the mg4 is 7.7sec, not 6.4sec

[@Star14trek]

Bit echo it parts 😂 .... So guess you couldnt get hold of EX30 as it was voted your car of the year and being same size as #1 🤯

[@LiveMyJourneyTom]

#1 is actually slightly bigger. It has more room in the back and the bench can be moved forward if you need more boot space.

[@pauliusraila5798]

I really like the triple beauties conversation in funny way ❤

[@asaslam]

I own the Niro EV and yes it has wireless CarPlay. Also, the base model doesn’t have V2L. I know you guys review a lot of cars but please get the facts right.

[@mikadavies660]

The Smart looks far more modern inside than the other two. Especially the glass roof. The Kia looks too dark and the sunroof looks like something from the 1980's. The MG4 just looks cheap and nasty inside. They couldn't even put the gear change dial near the driver (its still set up for Left Hand Drive).

[@aloonatronrex3472]

An odd review. Size didn’t seem to matter, when it’s surely one of the most important things, but dismissed. We have a Niro but test drive a man MG 4 and ZS. The MG4 is a lot smaller both in the back seat and boot. The interior trim is very cheap in the MG, and the Niro is a clear step up, as is the infotainment which almost child’s toy level in the MG, but this was ignored here? The MG was nicer car to drive tho, and one thing I have only seen mentioned in 1 review is the seats in the Niro, which are not great. The MG 4 would be a good 2nd car, but as a main family car for your young 2.4 children where you need the space, the Niro is the most practical and better of the 2. They are both very good cars for their price. When we liked (just over a year ago) the price difference was negligible, and I think the Niro 3 Vs Trophy LR was pretty close. Unsurprisingly, the journalists went for the smart, which I’ve not driven but it’s clearly the premium option here, so no great surprise there. I suspect you’ll be seeing a lot more Niros and MG4s on the road however. But from what I’ve seen online, if I was buying a car like this today and you discount space like they have, the out of these three I would probably choose…. The new Volvo.

[@chrisrussell418]

I guess for all those people who don't actually buy a new car anymore but just rent it one way or another and give it back after 2 or 3 years then the 3 year warranty on the Smart is OK but for those of us that still buy cars the 7 year warranty is king. If it's as good as Merc say then put you warranty where your mouth is.

[@StevenWard-s3d]

Lots of cars have a single phase charging cable supplied which means slow charging. Look at the end of the cable I bet only one metal connector visible. the other 2 are empty. My Tesla cable is 3 phase and the difference in charging speeds is massive.

[@benellis7427]

Most uk households only have single phase so only benefit is at a destination charger at a business location.

[@StevenWard-s3d]

@@benellis7427 yes you are correct only at public chargers

[@Tom55data]

7 to 11k is not massive but useful . Many cars from Europe come with 3 phase cables, my work chargers are 3 phase and most cars using these are 11k, while a zoe is 22k.

[@octarinehk]

11kW chargers are like hens teeth anyway.

[@leakeathon]

At 2.2 kW the MG 4 is powerful enough to charge another car... just very slowly. Most EVs can charge at 5 - 6 Amps.. 1.2 kW upwards.

[@sharonsweeney9710]

I would prefer to see cars reviewed by people that own them rather than contemplate who could live in one for a year!

[@Erikkrols]

Owning one will give mostly biased reviews

[@MrGMawson2438]

MG looks the best

[@6ettinold]

That Smart looks like a Vauxhall Adam that was left in a car park at Luton Airport....and the proportions arw all wrong.

[@sevensixtysteve8662]

Well I would take the Kia over all of them. I love the styling and dash layout of the Niro. Very close second would be the MG4 and I would test drive it against the Kia to see which one I prefer. The MG looks great and sounds like it drives well to. I really don't like the Smarts styling inside or out and that childish animation on the central screen would drive me insane as I am not 12 years old. I also drive with my hand at the top of the wheel which basically rules the Smart out for me I am happy to say.