New Models / 17 August 2026 / Michael Taylor

MG3 hatchback updated for South Africa – Pricing and features

MG has updated the MG3 hatchback in South Africa for the 2026 Model Year, bringing new features and improvements across the line-up.

The Chinese carmaker stated that the model year updates are meant to further strengthen the vehicle’s value proposition through enhanced technology, connectivity, and design, focusing on features that matter most to modern drivers.

MG added that the small car has seen a notable increase in popularity in 2026, ranking as the brand’s most successful product in South Africa.

The line-up itself is unchanged, as the MG3 is available in four specifications with prices starting at R269,900.

What’s new

Across the range, the MG3 now features wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone pairing, making the connection far more seamless without the need for cables, which also helps to tidy up the centre console area.

MG has also added two new colour options to the series, Medal Silver and Andean Grey, giving customers more choices for personalisation.

Starting on the upper-mid-range Luxury trim, the car interior has seen a significant upgrade with two front USB Type-C ports, including a full-function port and a dedicated charging port.

Additionally, the analogue HD 360-degree camera system has been upgraded to a digital version, providing sharper image quality and improved visibility when parking.

“These updates are a direct response to what our customers value most – intuitive technology, modern design, and everyday practicality,” said Jack Wang, Vice President at MG Motor South Africa.

“With these updates to the MG3 range, we continue to deliver more as standard, making advanced features and connectivity accessible to a broader audience.”

The range itself is still powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine, which sends 81kW and 142Nm to the front wheels.

The base Comfort is sold with either a five-speed manual or a CVT automatic transmission, while the Luxury+ grade is only available with the CVT.

The exception to all of this is the range-topping Hybrid+, which pairs the 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor and a hybrid transmission, generating a substantially higher 155kW and 425Nm.

Fuel consumption for the standard models works out to 6.0l/100km, while the hybrid only uses 4.3l/100km.