Should you buy one?

The MG3 falls between two schools of thought for small, affordable cars, offering a mixed bag of quality and performance in a reasonably attractive package, backed up by an appealing warranty and competitive finance. Since introduction in 2013, steady improvements have been made and the latest facelift makes it nicer to look at and nicer to be in.

Much of that mixed identity is down to the single engine choice, which at 1.5-litres in an era of high-output 1.0-litre three-cylinder efficiency looks decidedly dated. Yet it’s a decent enough performer given the cars it has to compete against, and comes close to meeting claimed economy figures in real-world use.

Manage your expectations, look fairly at rivals’ technology and the MG3 could be the compromise between budget, practicality and fun you’ve been looking for.

To find out more read the rest of our full MG Motor UK MG3 review.