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MG Motor UK MG3 Hatchback (2013-2024) running costs and reliability

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Running costs rating: 3.5 out of 53.5

Written by Richard Kilpatrick Updated: 5 May 2023

Miles per pound (mpp)

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only, and typical current fuel or electricity costs.
Petrol engines 6.2 - 6.3 mpp
What is miles per pound?

Fuel economy

Low figures relate to the least economical version; high to the most economical. Based on WLTP combined fuel economy for versions of this car made since September 2017 only.
Petrol engines 42.3 - 43.3 mpg
View mpg & specs for any version
  • Sparse dealer network a downside for maintenance
  • Simple engine and relatively frequent servicing
  • Cheap insurance and reasonable real-world economy

One of the highlights of the MG3’s running costs is the car’s insurance group rating. It’s classified in Group 4E, which is very low indeed.

The 1.5-litre petrol engine averages a claimed 48mpg, and in normal driving conditions that is a fair reflection of real-world economy.

140g/km emissions will discourage company car drivers, despite the low P11D value.

2018 MG3 running costs - Parkers

Private buyers, however, may be tempted by a low base price and competitive finance.

Residual values forecasts suggest that after three years and 60,000 miles the MG3 will retain approximately 34 to 35 percent of its value, depending on specification.

MG dealers are retailing good used examples for much more, suggesting the lack of available cars and enthusiast market is supporting residual values.

MG offers good finance deals, including five-year 0% with no deposit.

Bear in mind that the MG dealer network is relatively small and so you may have to travel some distance to get the car serviced.

  • One engine, one gearbox
  • 1.5-litre petrol power
  • WLTP compliant emissions of 140g/km
2018 MG3 emissions are below average for the size of car

With only one engine and gearbox available from launch, Euro-6D CO2 emissions are rated as identical across the range at 140g/km, rather than 124g/km for pre-2018 models.

Many cars have increased emissions ratings after WLTP standards, but most manufacturers have gone for smaller, more sophisticated engines; old technology means emissions to match and the amount of CO2 is high for the engine’s output.

  • Decent body engineering and simple construction
  • Some reports of timing chain failure on older cars
  • Long warranty on 2018 models
2018 MG3 has a seven year warranty and should prove reliable

MG includes a seven-year, 80,000 mile transferable warranty with all new MG3s, which should allow new and future owners some peace of mind. Some early MG3s had issues with failure of the timing chain if maintenance was neglected.

Dealer support is the weak link here, so make sure your chosen retailer has a good reputation.

Although 106hp from 1.5-litres is a relatively low output, the engine works hard to produce that power.

Ongoing running costs

Road tax £160 - £190
Insurance group 4 - 8
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