The MG4 has been one of the UK’s most significant electric cars since its launch – the model that proved a well-priced, enjoyable-to-drive EV from a Chinese brand could win over British buyers at scale. Now it has been updated for 2026 with a comprehensively redesigned interior, a simplified range, and a lower starting price than the equivalent outgoing model. Here is what has changed and whether it is still the value leader it once was.

What’s New for 2026?

The exterior changes are subtle – a new rear spoiler, updated wheel designs, and three new colours including Piccadilly Blue, Ealing Green and Cosmic Silver. The headline changes are inside.

The cabin has been completely redesigned. A new 12.8-inch central touchscreen replaces the previous unit, paired with a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Crucially, MG has replaced the touch-sensitive climate controls that drew criticism on the previous model with physical buttons – a welcome change that makes temperature and fan adjustments quicker and safer while driving.

Material quality has also been meaningfully improved, addressing one of the main criticisms of the earlier generation. Three rear headrests are now standard – another long-standing complaint resolved.

 

The 2026 Range

MG has streamlined the line-up. The entry-level 49kWh battery option has been dropped (it now serves the separate, cheaper MG4 Urban model), leaving three versions of the standard MG4:

Premium Long Range – £29,995 A 61.7kWh usable battery with a WLTP range of 280 miles and 188bhp. 0–62mph in 7.5 seconds. This is the entry point and the volume seller. Despite the simplified trim name, equipment is generous – 18-inch alloys, heated front seats, keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, faux-leather seats, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability as standard.

Premium Extended Range – £32,995 A larger 74.4kWh usable battery extending range to 338 miles WLTP and boosting power to 241bhp. 0–62mph in 6.2 seconds. Adds a two-tone roof. The best choice for drivers who regularly cover longer distances or want genuine motorway confidence.

XPower – £33,995 Dual-motor, 429bhp, 0–62mph in 3.8 seconds. Uses the smaller 61.7kWh battery, limiting range to 251 miles. Aimed at performance-focused buyers. Remarkably fast for the price.

Charging

All 2026 MG4 models support DC rapid charging at up to 150kW – the 64kWh battery goes from 10% to 80% in approximately 26 minutes at a compatible charger. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) is standard across the range, allowing you to power external devices directly from the car’s battery.

Note: 11kW three-phase AC charging is no longer offered on the 2026 MG4, which is a minor step backwards for buyers with access to faster home or workplace chargers.

What About the Electric Car Grant?

The MG4 is built in China, which means it does not currently qualify for the UK government’s Electric Car Grant. To offset this, MG is offering a £1,500 guaranteed saving on all MG4 models, bringing the effective entry price to £28,495 for the Long Range. That still undercuts many rivals but the gap has narrowed as the Renault 5, Kia EV2 and others have arrived with confirmed grant eligibility.

 

Verdict

The 2026 MG4 facelift addresses its most significant weaknesses – the interior quality and frustrating touch controls – while maintaining the competitive pricing and sharp driving character that made it a success. The Extended Range at £32,995 (or £31,495 with the MG saving) offering 338 miles of range remains one of the best-value propositions in the electric hatchback market.

If you were put off by the previous generation’s interior, the 2026 update is worth a fresh look.