If you think the current crop of D-segment sedans are beginning to appear a little mundane, SAIC Motor Malaysia thinks the same and has brought out the striking MG7 fastback sedan at the ongoing Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) 2024.
That coupe-like roofline lends the MG7 an extremely distinctive side profile that shouts sportiness. It’ll be difficult to ignore the large exhaust outlets, frameless doors, signature LED taillights and red brakes. Fortunately, it has the performance chops to cash the cheque its styling writes.
Two engines are available and the first is a 1.5-litre turbocharged inline-four with 188 hp and 300 Nm of torque that is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission to the front.
If you’re in need of a little more punch, there’s a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four bringing 261 hp and 405 Nm of torque that spins the front wheels via a nine-speed automatic.
On the inside, the MG7’s flat-bottom steering sits in front of a digital instrument cluster that’s framed together with the 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display and both are positioned right above the buttons for the air-conditioning. Rear occupants get their own vents.
It’s pretty standard on the kit count as well. You’ll find a panoramic sunroof, 19-inch wheels, a Bose sound system, sports seats, a 360-degree camera and support for both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Driver assistance comprises adaptive cruise control with stop-go, front collision warning together with autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning with mitigation, lane change assist and blind spot monitoring. You’ll also get six airbags.
Lastly comes a real feather in the MG7’s cap. It can claim to be a Guinness World Record holder. You’ll find it listed next to the stat for the greatest altitude change by a petrol combustion car.
It achieved the feat by ascending from Aiding Lake (-148.379 metres) on February 25, 2023 and reached the Laqiongla Mountains (5,829.788 m) on March 6, 2023. That represents a climb of 5,978.17 metres.
Currently, the MG7 is available only in left-hand drive guise and is sold in China as well as Vietnam. Based on the specifications, can the MG7 be a bestseller in Malaysia?
