MG MG3 II (SB facelift) (2018 – 2023)

Reliability score : 7.2/10

The second-generation MG3 underwent a second major facelift in 2018 (often internally referred to as code SB or 'Phase 3'). This facelift gave it a modernized front end ('Star-Rider' grille inspired by the ZS SUV), a redesigned interior with an 8-inch touchscreen integrating Apple CarPlay, and enriched standard equipment. Positioned as a 'low-cost' versatile city car (B-segment), it achieved great success in markets like the UK and Australia thanks to its unbeatable price and 7-year manufacturer's warranty. Based on an aging platform (dating back to 2011), it falls short compared to European competitors in terms of mechanical efficiency, passive safety (old design), and refinement, but compensates with generous passenger space and surprisingly dynamic road handling. Overall note: A rationa

⚠️ Weaknesses

High fuel consumption for the category (often > 6.5 L/100km in real-world driving)
1.5L engine lacking torque at low revs and noisy on the highway (short 5-speed gearbox)
Interior plastic quality (hard and prone to scratches)
Infotainment system sometimes slow or prone to bugs (black screens)
4-speed automatic gearbox (outside Europe) from another era
Outdated passive safety (old platform, no modern driving aids like autonomous emergency braking)

🎯 Verdict

The MG3 (2018-2023) is the archetype of an honest 'runabout' car. It doesn't excel in performance, fuel consumption, or onboard technology. However, its mechanical simplicity makes it an overall reliable vehicle. Its main selling point on the used market is its price/equipment/space ratio, coupled with the famous 7-year warranty (which still covers many models on the market). It's a rational purchase for a young driver or as a second family car, provided it's bought at a fair price and that maintenance has been scrupulously followed within the network to retain the warranty.