MG’s wild look ends copycat era

Australians are snapping up models from this brand in record numbers. Now it has shed its conservative design language for a bold new look.

China’s MG Motors has unveiled a bold new look likely to redefine its increasingly popular range in Australia.

The new MG One crossover is the first model to wear striking looks that separate it from the herd.

The new MG One has eye-catching looks.

The reborn brand’s early efforts bore a striking resemblance to Mazda’s successful “Kodo” design theme, where a chrome grille surround flows into shapely headlights with halo-like lighting elements.

Mix in a dash of Mercedes’ diamond-like grille finish with a VW-inspired cabin and it’s easy to see why MG’s attractive SUVs represent some of the fastest-selling cars in Australia.

Some of MG’s most popular models bear a close resemblance to Mazda machinery.

But the new model changes that.

Striking front-end styling on the MG One means it is unlikely to be mistaken for mainstream rivals.

MG will let customers choose between a relatively subtle grille treatment or a wild look with chromed lightning bolts striking its badge.

Customers can choose between or dynamic-looking grilles.

Built on a fresh platform, the MG One is set to share its underpinnings with a wide variety of models ranging from hatchbacks to family SUVs.

Technical details surrounding the car are slim.

It’s expected to have a 1.5-litre turbo petrol engine and dual-clutch automatic transmission as standard, with hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric models a possibility for the future.

2022 MG One

MG’s Australian arm hasn’t committed to the new car but its success in the past couple of years should help the local outfit make a case for an Australian debut.