The last few years have seen MG become a maker of perfectly sensible, well-priced but rather dull electric cars. However, the MG4 EV changed all that by becoming one one of the very best next generation electric models by offering a decent range for a competitive, petrol-rivalling, price.

The MG4 EV has its sights set on the Cupra Born, Renault Megane E-Tech and Volkswagen ID.3, all big hitters in their segment. Its ingredients certainly appeal as it’s as good, if not better, than its aforementioned rivals, even when you don’t take its price into account. And that’s why it won our Car of The Year award for 2024.

There’s the choice of standard, long- and extended-range versions all with enough power to give a sub-8.0-second 0-62mph time, a rear-mounted electric motor powering the rear wheels just like a Born or ID.3 and an impressive selection of standard equipment, even if you don’t opt for the top of the range Trophy model.

So far so good, but the MG4 EV’s biggest draw is once again its price. Standard range models are priced below even a Vauxhall Corsa Electric or Peugeot E-208, while even long-range Trophy models undercut similarly sized rivals such as the Cupra Born by thousands. Only the BYD Dolphin matches it for value, and that’s from a unknown maker, and nowhere near as good to drive.

The range kicks off with the SE trim, which is available with either the Standard or Long Range battery. This doesn’t lack equipment by any stretch – it still has two high-definition screens, the MG Pilot suite of advanced driver tech as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

If you step up to the Trophy, it’s available with the Long Range or Extended Range battery packs. You gain a 360-degree camera, wireless phone charger, built-in sat-nav, heated front seats and steering wheel, and some extra safety kit.

The big question will be whether the MG4 EV’s driving experience and interior can hold a candle to established rivals, or whether the car’s price will be the main reason for buying. To find out how it stacks up against rivals and whether it should be on your EV shopping list, keep reading for our multi-page review.

We’ll let you know what it’s like from behind the wheel, what your passengers will make of it, how big the boot is and all the nitty-gritty regarding charging. We’ve even lived with one over an extended period to really get under the skin of this former Car of The Year.

If you’d like to learn more about how we reached our conclusion, check out our how we test cars explainer page. Plus, if you’d rather watch than read, scroll down for our MG 4 video review in which we pit it against two of its biggest rivals – the Vauxhall Astra Electric and the Volkswagen ID.3.

Watch our MG 4 EV video review