The next MG3? Design patents show new small hatch from MG with modernised styling

One of MG’s longest-running models of its current era in Australia, the MG3 hatchback, could be set for a replacement just around the corner, if patent filings to the EU’s IP office indicate a model set for imminent debut.

Published this week in the European Union Intellectual Property Office’s database, a set of design images shows a hatch appearing to be roughly MG3-sized, with more up-to-date MG styling like that of the MG5 small sedan.

While no technical specifications or interior design images are included in the filing, reports from Europe hint at what could be in store.

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While the current MG3 which has been around for years starts from $19,490 drive-away, a new-gen MG3 would certainly end the brand’s sub-$20,000 presence.

And even though the MG3’s popularity likely has its low pricing to thank - it accounts for well over a third of the ‘Light’ new-car market segment, 9489 sales this year so far ahead of the likes of the Suzuki Swift (3989) and Kia Rio (3588) - a slight increase in pricing that coincides with a rise in quality and features won’t likely end the hatch’s sales dominance in the slowly shrinking segment.

According to UK outlet Autocar, as of late last year, the MG3’s next-generation model will likely add a hybrid variant to its line-up, but won’t go full EV.

The MG3 hatchback could be set for a replacement just around the corner.

“Developing a small electric car is only marginally cheaper than developing a bigger car,”  MG’s UK Commercial Director, Guy Pigounakis, told Autocar.

“Then half the price is battery so it becomes a £25,000 [or AU$48,500] car which is unaffordable”.

The desire to keep the MG3 affordable could mean its 1.5-litre engine lives on, but with a small hybrid battery to help lift its 82kW and 150Nm outputs and improve efficiency.

Stay tuned.