The MG 4X, a compact electric crossover featuring advanced liquid-solid state battery technology, has officially arrived at dealerships across China. This arrival signals that the vehicle is on the verge of its official market launch. Positioned as a direct competitor to the popular BYD Atto 3, the MG 4X combines a slightly larger footprint with cutting-edge powertrain options and a tech-heavy interior co-developed with smartphone giant Oppo.
Design and Exterior Features
Photographs shared by Yan Zhao Auto confirm that the MG 4X has reached showrooms, ready for customer viewing. The vehicles are displayed in a variety of colors, including purple, blue, and beige, all mounted on 18-inch wheels.
The exterior design follows MG’s contemporary aesthetic:
* Front Fascia: Features triangular headlights connected by a continuous LED strip and a trapezoidal air intake.
* Rear: Utilizes a single, unified taillight unit.
* Details: Traditional door handles are used, maintaining a clean side profile.
Interior Comfort and Technology
The cabins of the top-trim models currently on display highlight a focus on passenger comfort and digital integration. Key interior features include:
- Seating: A “zero-gravity” front passenger seat with a power legrest, alongside heated, ventilated, and massaging functions for both front seats.
- Tech Integration: The cockpit is co-developed with Oppo, featuring a large floating touchscreen and an LCD instrument cluster. It supports Navigate on Autopilot (NOA) for advanced driver assistance.
- Convenience: A two-spoke steering wheel, a gear shifter on the column, a 50W wireless charging pad, a heated steering wheel, ambient lighting, and a power tailgate.
- Aesthetics: Buyers can choose between light and dark interior color schemes.
Powertrain and Battery Options
The MG 4X offers two distinct powertrain configurations, catering to different needs for range and performance. Both variants use rear-mounted synchronous permanent magnet electric motors.
1. Entry-Level Variant
* Motor: TZ180XS0951 (125 kW / 168 hp), manufactured by UAES (a SAIC-Bosch joint venture).
* Battery: 53.9 kWh liquid-solid state pack.
* Range: Up to 510 km (CLTC standard).
2. High-Performance Variant
* Motor: TZ204XS1351 (150 kW / 201 hp), manufactured by Huayu Automotive Electric Drive System (SAIC-owned).
* Battery: 64.2 kWh LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) pack supplied by CATL.
* Range: Up to 610 km (CLTC standard).
Note: The liquid-solid battery represents a transitional technology between traditional lithium-ion and all-solid-state batteries, offering improved safety and energy density, which is a significant selling point in the competitive Chinese EV market.
Dimensions and Market Positioning
The MG 4X is designed to be slightly larger than its main rival, the BYD Atto 3 (known as the Yuan Plus in China).
| Specification | MG 4X | Comparison Note |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (L/W/H) | 4,500 x 1,849 x 1,621 mm | 45 mm longer than BYD Atto 3 |
| Wheelbase | 2,735 mm | Offers potentially more interior space |
| Curb Weight | 1,640 – 1,755 kg | Varies by battery and motor option |
While official pricing has not yet been announced, industry analysts at CarNewsChina predict the starting price will be below 100,000 yuan (approx. $14,680 USD). This aggressive pricing strategy aims to capture a significant share of the budget-conscious compact SUV segment.
Conclusion
The arrival of the MG 4X at dealerships marks a pivotal moment for SAIC’s MG brand as it intensifies competition in the Chinese electric vehicle market. By combining competitive pricing, a larger body than the BYD Atto 3, and advanced battery technology, the MG 4X aims to offer a compelling alternative for consumers seeking value and modern tech. The imminent launch will test whether these features are enough to challenge established leaders in the segment.
