Who makes MG cars?
From its beginnings in 1924, MG has been quintessentially British – a brand known for making sporty, value-for-money cars that are fun to drive.
However, after having a number of owners, including Rover, and falling on hard times, the brand is currently owned by the Chinese state-owned SAIC Motor Corporation. Production is now primarily in China, though MG maintains a design and engineering presence in the UK.
SAIC has revitalised the MG brand, focusing on affordable, tech-forward vehicles, including electric models, that appeal to a global audience while retaining MG’s classic charm.
Read on as we take a good look at all things MG!
- The evolution of MG Cars
- Who is SAIC Motor?
- MG’s manufacturing history
- MG’s electric vehicles
- Why choose MG over other brands?
- FAQs
The evolution of MG Cars
MG cars have evolved from their early days as British sports car icons in the 1920s to modern, tech-savvy vehicles under Chinese ownership. Initially celebrated for their lightweight roadsters and racing success, MG struggled in the late 20th century, leading to the brand’s acquisition by SAIC Motor in 2007.
Today, MG has reinvented itself, blending traditional British design elements with cutting-edge technology and electric powertrains, appealing to a new generation of drivers worldwide.
Who is SAIC Motor?
SAIC Motor Corporation Limited is a state-owned Chinese automotive giant and the current parent company of MG. Founded in 1955 and headquartered in Shanghai, SAIC is one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world, producing millions of vehicles annually. The company acquired the MG brand in 2007, revitalising it with significant investments in:
✏️ Design
🤖 Technology
📈 Global marketing
SAIC’s influence has transformed MG from a classic British marque into a modern, international brand. With a strong focus on electric vehicles and advanced technology, MG caters to a diverse global market while maintaining its heritage.
MG’s manufacturing history
| Vehicle | Years in production | Estimated cost today | Notes |
| MG14/28 | 1924-1927 | £60,000 | MG’s first mass-produced car.Open tourer with two or four seats.1802 cc four-cylinder, side-valve. |
| MGA | 1955-1962 | From £18,990 | Big commercial success and marked the start of a new era for MG. |
| MG Midget | 1961-1979 | From £2,495 | Considered one of the all-time most classic, affordable sports cars. More than 220,000 sold. |
| MGB | 1962-1980 | From £5,750 | Arguably MG’s defining vehicle and Britain’s most popular sports car ever. More than half a million sold thanks to its blend of stylish looks and entertaining driving experience. |
| MG Metro | 1982-1990 | From 5,995 | The iconic 6R4 rally car released in 1985. Standard model typically featured three doors, 72hp, and a top speed of 101mph. |
| MGF | 1995-2002 | From £1,595 | Boasted nice looks, addictive handling and a comfortable ride. More than 77,000 sold during its seven-year production run. |
| MG ZR/ZS/ZT | 2001-2005 | From £1,395 (ZR); £1,195 (ZS); £2,495 (ZT) | Great looking performance cars. Came in vivid colours and provided an enjoyable ride. The ZR was the UK’s top-selling small sports hatchback in the early 2000s. |
| MG6 | 2011-2016 | From £1,995 | First MG launched under SAIC ownership.Front engine, front-wheel drive.The MG6 1.8 TCi Tech had a top speed of 120mph. |
| MG4 EV | 2022 to present | From £21,799 | MG’s first fully electric hatchback.Up to 323 miles of electric range and two battery options.‘What Car?’s Best Small Electric Car of 2024’. |
MG’s electric vehicles
MG has significantly impacted the electric vehicle (EV) market by offering affordable, accessible, and well-equipped electric cars that appeal to a broad audience. Models like the MG ZS EV and MG5 EV have established the brand as a significant player in the shift towards electrification.
The MG ZS EV, launched in 2019, was one of the first budget-friendly electric SUVs in the UK, providing competitive range and technology at a lower price point than many rivals. Similarly, the MG5 EV, introduced as the world’s first electric estate car, offers practical, family-oriented features with impressive range and efficiency.
MG’s focus on value-for-money and practical EV solutions has helped make electric mobility more accessible to the average consumer, contributing to the increased adoption of electric vehicles in markets like the UK, where MG’s EVs have become increasingly popular.
Why choose MG over other brands?
1. Affordability
MG offers competitive pricing, making their vehicles accessible to a broader audience. Consumers appreciate the value for money, particularly in the electric vehicle segment, where MG provides budget-friendly options without sacrificing key features.
2. Modern technology
MG vehicles are equipped with advanced technology, such as infotainment systems, safety features, and connectivity options, appealing to tech-savvy buyers seeking modern conveniences.
3. Design and heritage
MG’s blend of modern design and British heritage resonates with consumers who appreciate style and tradition. The brand’s classic appeal and contemporary aesthetics attract a diverse range of buyers.
4. Electric vehicle options
The brand’s strong focus on electric vehicles, which offers practical and affordable EVs, appeals to environmentally conscious buyers seeking an economical entry into the electric car market.
5. Reliability and warranty
With extended warranties and a reputation for reliability, MG offers peace of mind, making it an attractive option for those seeking dependable, long-term ownership.
Innovation at MG Motors
Innovation is crucial at MG Motors, driving the brand’s resurgence and global appeal. Under SAIC Motor’s ownership, MG has embraced cutting-edge technology, particularly in the electric vehicle (EV) sector, with models like the MG ZS EV and MG4 EV. The brand focuses on integrating advanced safety features, smart connectivity, and efficient powertrains, ensuring its vehicles meet modern consumer demands.
MG also leverages its global design and engineering teams to create vehicles that balance heritage with innovation, offering stylish, tech-forward, and eco-friendly options that appeal to a wide range of drivers in today’s competitive market.
FAQs
Is MG a British or Chinese car?
MG is a British-origin brand, but it is now owned by the Chinese automotive giant SAIC Motor Corporation. While the design and engineering retain a strong British influence, most manufacturing now occurs in China, blending British heritage and Chinese innovation.
Are MGs reliable?
Yes, MG cars are generally considered reliable. They offer good build quality and value for money. The brand provides extended warranties, reinforcing consumer confidence. MG’s recent models, particularly under SAIC ownership, have shown improvements in reliability, making them a dependable choice for many drivers.
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