In 2005 MG Rover declared bankruptcy, however, the Chinese automaker, SAIC, stepped in and took over the brand and operations. Although the firm continues to produce vehicles under the MG banner, the brand no longer exists in South Africa after a brief stint under the control of Combined Motor Holdings (CMH).
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Even after its best efforts the fluctuating currencies and increase in vehicle prices were enough to bring the brand to a standstill locally during 2016. CMH continued to support owners with warranty claims and vehicle services and should you require new parts, they are a good place to start looking. While no new models were introduced locally over the last four years, there are a few MG vehicles available in the used market, more specifically the MG MG6.
Exterior
The MG MG6 was offered in two body styles, sedan and hatchback, and three trim levels namely, Comfort, Luxury and Deluxe. The model aimed to take on the likes of the Hyundai Elantra and Volkswagen Jetta and at the very least the sedan measured up being 4651 mm long, 1826 mm wide and 1473 mm tall. Upfront the MG6 had simple but clean styling and incorporated fog lamps even on the entry-level, Comfort, variant.
The sides of the vehicle are uncluttered with a distinctive shoulder line extending the length of the vehicle. In all four corners feature 17-inch alloy wheels which somewhat resembles that of an Alfa Romeo. Continuing on the theme on the front and sides of the vehicle, the rear is simple and came with clear-glass taillamps.
Interior
Both the Comfort and Luxury derivatives came fitted with cloth seats while the Deluxe incorporated leather units. All three variants offer a spacious cabin, even for the rear occupants' thanks to the 2705 mm wheelbase. The facia is simple in design with the instrument binnacle stretching past the middle point to house the optional navigation screen. Contrasting the dark plastics are silver plastic inserts that feature on the dashboard, centre console and door handles.
The Comfort model offers occupants air-con, electric windows and mirrors as well as an AM/FM radio with USB and AUX ports. The Luxury variants add rear park distance control, steering-wheel controls and cruise control. If you want leather trim, climate control, Bluetooth, auto lights and wipers, a sunroof, reverse camera and electrically adjustable and heated seats, you will want to find yourself a Deluxe derivative.
Powertrain
The MG6 comes fitted with a turbocharged, 1.8-litre petrol motor that is mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, there was no automatic derivative. This combination delivers 118 kW and 215 Nm of torque. MG claimed that the model will complete a 0-100 km/h sprint in 8.2 seconds and will continue till it reaches 193 km/h. Owners can also expect a combined fuel consumption return of around 7 L / 100 km.
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