MG ‘here to stay’ in Australia

MG's fledgling Australian operation is on a mission to convince buyers it is "here to stay", following a false start four years ago. 

The historic brand, now under the ownership of Chinese giant SAIC, made ripples in the Australian car market when it launched an ill-prepared challenge on the motoring establishment in 2013.

Championed by independent importers Australia Longwell Motor, the brand's rebirth was hurt by poorly-positioned, uncompetitive cars as well as logistical red tape.

But the brand is now back with three new models as a local arm of SAIC, MG's parent company.

Danny Lenartic, marketing and communications manager for the new operation, says customers should not be worried by MG's recent history in Australia. 

"This is a completely different operation," he says.

"That door is closed. It was a distributor - it didn't have anything to do with SAIC.

"It wasn't a false start it is more of a hiccup. SAIC are committed to continue here."

The reborn brand's range includes the budget MG3 hatch, revised MG6 Plus sedan and new MG GS SUV that goes on sale this month. It's a small operation to begin with, comprising of just three dealerships - one Queensland outlet in Brisbane, plus a NSW presence in Coffs Harbour and Campbelltown. Expect a Victorian outlet to follow soon.

MG hopes to win buyers over with a combination of value-for-money and customer service anchored by a six-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty and roadside assistance package.

Lenartic says the MG brand will help erode the inferior quality stigma surrounding Chinese cars, one he believes is already slipping away. 

"That message is softening," he says. 

"So much of our household technology comes out of China, I think people understand that." 

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