Standard equipment for the MG4 includes 17-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, tail-lights and daytime running lights as well as cloth-trimmed seats, a 7.0-inch digital instrument panel, 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a four-speaker sound system for the Excite 51 and Excite 64 models.

The Essence 64 and 77 models get extra equipment, with a six-speaker sound system, wireless smartphone charging pad, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, leather and fabric trim and 18-inch alloy wheels with aero covers.

The interior design of the MG4 takes a minimalist approach. There's two screens for the instrument display and infotainment screen and a single row of buttons, but not much else. Small item storage is good in the front, at least, with two cup holders and a large lidded box. Rear occupants miss out on air-conditioning vents, cup holders and a centre arm rest.

The MG4 is available with three different powertrain options initally. The entry-level Excite 51 gets a 51kWh battery with a 125kW electric motor. Stepping up to the Excite and Essence 64 brings a 64kWh battery and more powerful 150kW motor. Finally, the Essence 77 has a 77kWh battery pack and gets the most potent motor, with 180kW.

The MG4 has seating for five, with good space for occupants in front and rear. The seats themselves are comfortable but flat, lacking side bolstering.

MG has published 0-100km/h times for the MG4 range which claims the Excite 51 takes 7.7 seconds, the Excite and Essence 64 take 7.9 seconds and the Essence 77 is the quickest at 6.5 seconds.

The driving range of the MG4 varies between the different powertrains. The Excite 51 has a 350km claimed range, while the Excite 64 manages a 450km range on its 17-inch wheels, while the Essence range is 435km on its bigger 18-inch wheels. The MG4 Essence 77 has the longest range, an impressive claim of 530km.