MG expands electric lineup, 2026 MG 4 confirmed as dual-model hatchback range for Australia

MG Motor Australia has officially confirmed the arrival of the 2026 MG 4, introducing a two-model electric hatchback lineup that will cater to a broader range of buyers. The brand will offer two distinct versions of the MG 4: a new front-wheel-drive (FWD) variant alongside the existing rear-wheel-drive (RWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) models. This effectively splits its electric small car offerings into separate city-focused and performance-oriented choices.

MG 4 pricing overview

A new entry point, Front-wheel-drive MG 4

Scheduled to hit Australian showrooms between April and June 2026, the second-generation FWD MG 4 will serve as the more affordable, urban-friendly option in the lineup. Designed with city commuters in mind, it will feature two battery options:

• 43kWh (entry-level)
• 54kWh (extended range)

While pricing has yet to be finalised, MG Australia has hinted that the new FWD model will be positioned as an “affordable city-spec” EV, potentially undercutting the current $37,990 drive-away price of the outgoing 51kWh Excite RWD variant.

Meanwhile, the existing RWD and AWD MG 4 models will continue, albeit with a simplified battery lineup, consolidating from three options to a single 64kWh pack, available in either RWD or AWD (XPower) configurations. The brand has indicated that the cheapest RWD variant will likely remain above $40,000, similar to today’s $40,990 (plus on-roads) 64kWh Excite.

Why two different MG 4 models?

MG Australia CEO Peter Ciao explained the strategy, stating: “The new for 2026 front-wheel-drive MG 4 will be a completely different vehicle, perfect for the city. Production cost considerations of rear-wheel drive necessitated an affordable FWD alternative to complement our sportier RWD and AWD offerings.”

The FWD model is built on a different platform from the current RWD version, featuring:

• Softer, more rounded styling (contrasting with the sharp, sporty look of the RWD model)
• Larger dimensions (4,395mm long vs. ~4,300mm for RWD)
• Extended wheelbase (2,750mm vs. 2,705mm)

MG 4 model availability, drivetrain and battery

2026 MG 4 43kWh & 54kWh FWD

• Availability: April – June 2026
• Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive

2026 MG 4 64kWh RWD & XPower AWD

• Availability: Mid-2026 (updated models)
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive / All-Wheel Drive (XPower)

Current MG 4 Range

• Availability: Now
• Drivetrain: Mostly Rear-Wheel Drive; AWD for XPower variant

Battery, range and charging

The 2026 FWD MG 4’s 43kWh and 54kWh batteries claim ranges of 437km and 530km, respectively (based on China’s CLTC cycle). Australian WLTP figures are expected to be lower.

By comparison, the current RWD MG 4 offers:

• 51kWh battery: 350km (WLTP)
• 64kWh battery: 435–450km (WLTP)

The FWD model also supports fast charging from 30 to 80 per cent in 20 minutes, powered by a 120kW/250Nm motor, less performance-oriented than the RWD/AWD variants.

Tech and luxury upgrades

Despite its more affordable positioning, the FWD MG 4 introduces premium features not found in the current model, including:

• 15.6-inch touchscreen (larger than the current infotainment)
• 50W wireless charging
• Ventilated front seats
• 256-colour ambient lighting
• Panoramic sunroof with electric sunshade

Name and market strategy

The FWD variant has been linked to the “MG 4 Urban” moniker, following MG’s recent trademarking of the name in Australia. This aligns with its positioning as a practical, city-oriented EV, contrasting with the sportier RWD/AWD lineup.

The big picture

With this expansion, MG is doubling down on Australia’s growing EV market, offering both budget-friendly and performance-oriented choices in the same segment. The FWD model aims to attract urban buyers and first-time EV adopters, while the RWD/AWD versions continue to cater to driving enthusiasts.

More details, including final pricing, specs, and test drive availability, will be revealed closer to the FWD model’s mid-2026 launch.