Important Questions before receiving MG3 Hybrid Luxury?

[Tom1]

Hello,
I live in a country where I recently ordered a new 2025 MG3 Hybrid Luxury, which has yet to be delivered.
I've come across numerous reports of serious technical issues with the vehicle through Facebook and WhatsApp groups dedicated to MG3 Hybrid owners.
In my country, the software version being marketed is from April 2024.

Here are the issues people have been complaining about:

1. Significant difficulty in climbing both small and large hills – inability to exceed 40/50 km/h.

2. Faulty gear operation – the car lingers in gear at the start of a drive and during speeds of 40/90/100 km/h and only adjusts after a few minutes.

3. High RPM and engine noise on inclines – RPM rises above 4,000, with unusual engine noise (screeching), and significant power loss when the battery is drained or even with over 50% charge. The car struggles to maintain speed, especially uphill.

4. The vehicle does not deliver the declared power of 194 hp, and feels like 100 hp on hills.

5. Rear camera – delay in the reverse camera display when switching to reverse gear.

6. Software issues – vehicle settings such as air conditioning, driving modes, alerts, etc., are not saved after turning off the car.

7. Connectivity problems with the Android Car Play system.

My questions:

1. What version is currently available in your country MG3 Hybrid Luxury?

2. After the vehicle received an update, are all the issues like climbing hills, gear operation, etc., working 100% correctly without any problem for all of you?

3. Where can I find all the version numbers for the car's software and hardware online?

4. What is the latest version number of the MG3 Hybrid, and in which month was it released by MG Global?

5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of your vehicle?

6. Are you satisfied with the car, and would you recommend it, or is it better to cancel the order?

I would greatly appreciate receiving honest and straightforward answers as soon as possible.

Thank you

 

[salty]

Tom1

Congrats on your new motor.
Just get the car first, and see what it's like. Don't worry about what you've read. It's probably nowhere near as bad, as you think it's going to be. And if it is, worry about it then. There's folk on here who love their MG3's. It's all about opinions.
Hopefully you'll love it.

 

[MG Clive]

While I owned my MG3 Hybrid, I didn't have any of the problems you've mentioned, it's certainly a different car to drive with it's random revving and occasional momentary low power, but these are characteristics of the car which you'll get used to.

If you're getting the latest model, you should have the split rear seats and adjustable steering column, which is a must for some people, but it won't spoil the car if you don't get these features.

 

[Tom1]

Hi Salty,
Nice to Meet you
How are you?
Thank you for your Help!
I took 15-minute test drive on a straight road (flat surface) and there were no issues.
However, I keep hearing about problems with hills and the transmission, and the last thing I want is trouble with the car. I plan to keep the car for at least 5 years.

View attachment 34818

Tom1

Congrats on your new motor.
Just get the car first, and see what it's like. Don't worry about what you've read. It's probably nowhere near as bad, as you think it's going to be. And if it is, worry about it then. There's folk on here who love their MG3's. It's all about opinions.
Hopefully you'll love it.

Hi Salty,
Nice to Meet you
How are you?
Thank you for your Help!
I took 15-minute test drive on a straight road (flat surface) and there were no issues.
However, I keep hearing about problems with hills and the transmission, and the last thing I want is trouble with the car. I plan to keep the car for at least 5 years.

1. Do you have any issues with hills or the transmission?

2. What is the version of the software update for the engine and hybrid system that you have?

3. Are you satisfied with the car?

4. Where can I see the entire list of update numbers that were released for the car in the past months?

Thank you very much for your time!

 

[Tom1]

While I owned my MG3 Hybrid, I didn't have any of the problems you've mentioned, it's certainly a different car to drive with it's random revving and occasional momentary low power, but these are characteristics of the car which you'll get used to.

If you're getting the latest model, you should have the split rear seats and adjustable steering column, which is a must for some people, but it won't spoil the car if you don't get these features.

Hi Clive,
How are you?
Thank you for your Help!
1. Do you have any issues with hills or the transmission?
2. What is the version of the software update for the engine and hybrid system that you have?
3. Are you satisfied with the car?
4. Do you Know Where can I see the entire list of update numbers that were released for the car in the past months?
Thank you for your time!

 

[MG Clive]

Hi Clive,
How are you?
Thank you for your Help!
1. Do you have any issues with hills or the transmission?
2. What is the version of the software update for the engine and hybrid system that you have?
3. Are you satisfied with the car?
4. Do you Know Where can I see the entire list of update numbers that were released for the car in the past months?
Thank you for your time!

I never had any problems with hills, and I never had any transmission problems, but to be honest, the transmission on the MG3 Hybrid is different to anything I've ever driven before, and what some people might call problems, to me they were just quirks or characteristics.

I don't have the car any more, so I can't tell you much more, but I was happy with the car when I got rid of it, I only changed because I decided to go full electric after experiencing how nice the MG3 was in electric mode.

 

[KeithS]

I bought my car at the beginning of May 24. I have covered almost 5,000 miles, and for the money there isn't a competitor that can offer the same level of equipment (my model is the Trophy).
The issues I've experienced, and mentioned on this site, were an 'emissions fault warning' which took three attempts to remedy. It was due to a faulty EGR valve, which since being replaced has rectified the problem.
The next issue was with the tyres. The car is fitted with Khumo Solus HS63 model tyres, which, at least in the necessary size were only generally available in Australia, and have now become obsolete! Therefore in the event of an irreparable puncture, for reasons of safety you will be required to buy TWO new tyres for ONE puncture.
This totally unreasonable problem was hugely exacerbated by the appalling approach of both my selling dealer, and the absolute couldn't care less approach from MG UK Customer service.
The final issue, and the first point you ask about, is related to the behaviour of the drive train when travelling up a steep hill. In order to provide sufficient energy to the battery to power the motor - which is what is, for the majority of driving, powering the vehicle; will result in the three speed auto box changing down to second gear. The result is RPM's between 2,500 and 3,000 so the otherwise very refined drive train becoming more noisy. Clive described it as a characteristic of the car, and it's also something that occurs, albeit less noticeably on fast roads.
That aside for most of the time is all very refined for what is a small car.
For me, in 9 months of ownership, the car is very accomplished, and as I said given the price it makes for an unbeatable deal when you see what yo get for the money. I particularly like the very clear 360° degree camera, and the MG PILOT, which aside from misidentifying parked cars on narrow roads, makes day-to-day driving so much more relaxing.
I would advise getting a Apple/Android wireless adaptor, particularly as it gives you seamless access to Waze etc, as the inbuilt Sat nav is a little rudimentary as it lacks voice control, and traffic information.

 

[Tom1]

Hello KeithS and Clive,
Thank you for your Help!
in Israel, there are over 200 people (there is already preparation for a lawsuit) whose cars simply can't handle climbs + gearbox problems where the transmission pulls.
The problems are in the MG3 Hybrid + MG ZS models.
The car in Israel costs $37,000, which is a lot compared to other countries.
I have already paid for it and I'm afraid I will have problems with climbs.
Dozens of people are uploading videos showing the RPM reaching 4,000, 5,000, and even 6,000, which is crazy. The engine can eventually explode.
You're saying you don't have any issues with climbs or the gearbox at all?
Can you please tell me which car software version (not multimedia) you have?
Do you suggest keeping the car or canceling the deal and getting a Hyundai Venue instead?
Thank you for your time.

 

[Magic Man]

If you're getting the latest model, you should have the split rear seats and adjustable steering column, which is a must for some people, but it won't spoil the car if you don't get these features.

Have they changed this then? Show room models and the one we tried today are still no split and rake only adjustable steering?

 

[Italy]

Hi Tom1 !

Your anxiety or concern is legitimate: when you buy a new car, you don't really like to make big mistakes.

I've had my MG3 luxury since September 2024 and I can assure you that I'm completely satisfied with it: if you look at the purchase price / features / equipment / warranty, it's unbeatable.
If you look at the purchase price / features / equipment / warranty is unbeatable. Just look at the serious car reviews all are generally favourably impressed.

My previous car was a Honda Jazz hybrid. The technology is virtually the same. It's a well-known brand and yet there were also a few annoyances (scooter noise when you press the accelerator, interior fogging, lack of power, exterior mirror that refused to fold up regularly....).

So YES the MG3 isn't perfect (but no car is without fault), YES it drives surprisingly well for someone who's never driven a full hybrid, YES the rear seat is fixed (this should be fixed), YES the automatic gearbox is sometimes temperamental, YES there are minor bugs (ventilation, heating...), YES it consumes more fuel in town, YES there seem to be problems for those who have an MG3 in a mountainous region (a software update will fix this), YES there seem to be problems for those who have a MG3 in a mountainous region (a software update will fix this).), YES it consumes more fuel in town than on the road, YES there seem to be problems for those who have an MG3 in a mountainous region (a software update will solve the problem), YES servicing seems rather expensive.

The MG3 is responsive and not very noisy, the adaptive cruise control is almost perfect, the central screen is responsive and very practical, SATNAV is no worse than the competition, Android Auto works very well (sorry, I'm not a fan of Siri), the 360° camera is a model of its kind and very useful, the LED headlights are very effective, the seats are comfortable, the heated steering wheel and seats are a treat, the fuel consumption is particularly low for 197 bhp (yes 197 bhp not always available but you don't even notice).....

You'll also notice that your future MG3 attracts a lot of attention from passers-by and onlookers.

Finally, you should know - and this is an absolute rule on the web - that detractors and the unhappy express themselves 10 times more in messages than delighted buyers of their car.

Happy people say little or nothing....those who own the MG3 are also happy people.

In short, we look forward to seeing you in April! I'm sure you'll be delighted overall.

Sorry about my English, I'm French: nobody's perfect, I tell you! My Mg3 or me too

 

[theforestdweller]

Have they changed this then? Show room models and the one we tried today are still no split and rake only adjustable steering?

The MG3 I test drove some two weeks ago had both split fold rear seat and rake sdjustable steering. This is now becoming the standard once all the "early" models have sold. My dealer advised that thise vehicles that identify as "2024" models are the old standard. Those that identify as "2024.5" models in their paperworks are the new versions. I was advised that those my dealer is expecting to arrive shortly will be the new models.

 

[MG Clive]

Have they changed this then? Show room models and the one we tried today are still no split and rake only adjustable steering?

There are obviously still both versions around, but it's definitely a specification change for 2025.

 

[Lins]

I’m not satisfied with mine at all. Had all the same issues as everyone’s else about the hills and rpms. On one occassion it after stopping it wouldn’t even start up again. We had to park up, it was late on a night and my husband had to retrieve it the following day. The car did start up but he crawled home at 1-2mph. Luckily it wasn’t to far from home. The next day the recovery from AA had to tow it to the garage as he couldn’t get it going either.
Surprisingly, MG just miraculously drove it in from the parking area the AA guy had dropped it off. I was called to say it was ready. They told me the software needed updating which the did, and gave it a health check. The mechanic had taken it for a ten mile drive and it was now driving fine.

Now I’m a driving instructor. I took a student out a couple of hours later and the car packed up again, this time in the middle of a mini roundabout, we couldn’t get it going again. Luckily the roundabout had no traffic approaching or it could have been a dangerous situations. Anyone on driving test fails because of the danger of stalling on a roundabout.
The following day it done exactly the same on a bigger roundabout, luckily we managed to crawl to a safe place just off roundabout (around 1mph). In my opinion this vehicle needs a recall.
Mine goes in again tomorrow. I’ll update on what the outcome is.

 

[Tom1]

I’m not satisfied with mine at all. Had all the same issues as everyone’s else about the hills and rpms. On one occassion it after stopping it wouldn’t even start up again. We had to park up, it was late on a night and my husband had to retrieve it the following day. The car did start up but he crawled home at 1-2mph. Luckily it wasn’t to far from home. The next day the recovery from AA had to tow it to the garage as he couldn’t get it going either.
Surprisingly, MG just miraculously drove it in from the parking area the AA guy had dropped it off. I was called to say it was ready. They told me the software needed updating which the did, and gave it a health check. The mechanic had taken it for a ten mile drive and it was now driving fine.

Now I’m a driving instructor. I took a student out a couple of hours later and the car packed up again, this time in the middle of a mini roundabout, we couldn’t get it going again. Luckily the roundabout had no traffic approaching or it could have been a dangerous situations. Anyone on driving test fails because of the danger of stalling on a roundabout.
The following day it done exactly the same on a bigger roundabout, luckily we managed to crawl to a safe place just off roundabout (around 1mph). In my opinion this vehicle needs a recall.
Mine goes in again tomorrow. I’ll update on what the outcome is.

Hi Lins,
How are you?

Thank you for sharing your experience with the car. I can only imagine how frustrating and concerning those issues must be, especially given your role as a driving instructor where safety and reliability are paramount. It certainly sounds like the car's performance has been inconsistent and potentially hazardous.

I agree that a recall might be warranted if these issues are more widespread. It's important that manufacturers address such serious problems to ensure the safety of all drivers.

Your claims are exactly what I'm writing about. I don't understand how some people write that their cars are fine, while others don't. At least where I live (Israel), there are many complaints about the MG3 and MG ZS hybrid models.

I hope the visit to the garage will provides a more permanent solution to the problem.
Please keep me updated on what they find and how your car performs afterward.

In addition, if you would be so kind, I would appreciate answers to my questions, please.

1. When did you receive your car (month and year)?

2. Is your car the M3 Hybrid Luxury model?

3. How many kilometers has your car driven so far?

4. you live in area mountainous or flat?

5. Did your car receive the PD052 update, or was it another update? If so, what is its name?

6. How long have you owned your car?

Thank you

 

[salty]

I don't understand how some people write that their cars are fine, while others don't.

Simple really, Tom. Because their cars are fine. It's the same scenario with the MG4/X power. Some are fine and some certainly are not. To be honest, think it's a bit of a lottery with MG, what Car you get.
Hope you get a "Good un"

 

[ijfoster]

Hi ive had mine 9 months and have driven 15000 miles. Service went without any charges and it drives a dream. The power when it comes in is very impressive. Yes the engine does rev but it only has the three gear ranges so no surprise. Averaging 70 mpg on a run and the collision breaking system has already saved my life on the m6. Couldn’t be happier and looking forward to my next 15000 miles

 

[Tom1]

Hello All,
How is everyone?
Thank you very much for your advices. I really appreciate it.
I’m simply quite worried about the costs and the issue regarding the gearbox and hilles that’s been mentioned in Israel.
I know it’s not related, but what do you think about the Seat Ibiza 1.5 FR? Would you recommend the Seat Ibiza or should I stick with the MG3?
I want to keep the car for a minimum of 5 to 6 years.
I’m concerned about the depreciation, the battery that might fail, or the engine that could break down.
I would appreciate your opinions, please.
Thank you for yours time.

 

[MG Clive]

If I wasn't ready to go hybrid or electric, I'd probably go for the Seat, the Ibiza is a really nice car.

 

[salty]

At the end of the day, Tom. The choice is yours, it's up to you. I've no doubts the Seat is a decent motor. But is it what you really want. About your 3 worries. Forget about depreciation, you can do nothing at all, about it. And that goes for all cars. You say the Battery might fail and the engine could fail. Might and Could. Almost certainly won't. You can't be worrying about what MIGHT happen. Get the car YOU want, and enjoy it.

 

[MG3AKL]

Hello Tom1 - using your first set of numbers:
1 - here in NZ we have lots of step hills and winding roads, but I've simply whizzed up and down with no problems at all.
2 - I don't notice the car changing gears - it's a very smooth ride.
3 - No excessive RPM, though sometimes in EV mode at lower speeds I do hear the engine revving at about 2,300 to charge the battery.
4 - Declared power: no idea on this one, but it never seems to be not enough; also collected my first speeding ticket in years!
5 - It does take almost a second for the camera to be fully live, but no lag after that.
6 - The software does save some settings from drive to drive, but I do have to reset 2 things it won't save (Europe safety laws I think) but it takes less than 4 seconds to do that, while I'm putting on my seatbelt, so no biggie.
7 - I use an iphone with no problem; occasional Android passenger can always connect instead with no problem. BlueTooth works on both.

To your second set of numbers:
1 - Mine is a Hybrid+ Essence, which is the top of the range here in NZ. I collected it on 1 September 2024 - no idea of the Version number.
2 - I don't think I have any issues that need correcting; After a flying stone chips mishap on the open road I was surprised it cost in total $NZ1700 to replace the windscreen, but Insurance covered that. I suspect parts won't be cheap if they're needed - but that's true of all new cars.
3 - Try the main MG Website or track down a Tech Manual?
4 - see 1 above,
5 - Advantages - comfy, fun, quiet and great to drive, suits all my needs, small size is great in the city, cameras make for easy parking, economical to run, great sound system and air con. Disadvantages: I see I have scheduled service bills ahead that seem pricey; software settings as answered to your first #1 above, but nothing else.
6 - Very happy customer! Mine cost $NZ31,000 plus rego etc, but I think I have so much more car than that because of the many features it comes with. I think it's excellent value for the money, it doesn't feel at all 'cheap' in any way, and I really enjoy every drive

If you're hoping for a Cullinan or Bentayga experience, this is not the car for you. If you're after a great value impressive hatch, take one for a decent test drive. I think you'll be impressed.

Sorry you have read about so many problems - not my experience at all.