New MG 3 leaked in patent images, due next year

Patent images of what is believed to be the replacement for the MG 3 city hatch – at least in overseas markets – have surfaced online ahead of its expected unveiling later this year or early next year.

Less than 24 hours after spy photos emerged on social media, the new MG city hatch has appeared in design patents submitted in Europe and found by Dutch publication AutoWeek.

While it is yet to be confirmed this is the replacement for the ageing MG 3 – which dates back to 2011 in China – the vehicle's proportions match a city-sized hatchback, and the styling is reminiscent of the latest MG 5 sedan and updated MG HS SUV.

As previously reported by Drive, it is planned to reach UK showrooms early next year, though it is expected to wear a different name.

Australian showroom arrival timing is yet to be confirmed, and there is a chance the MG 3 successor for local showrooms will be a rebadged version of another vehicle in the SAIC (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation) motor group, rather than this car.

If the MG vehicle pictured here comes to Australian showrooms, it is expected to be significantly more expensive than its $19,990 to $20,990 drive-away predecessor to account for a stiffer body, the addition of advanced safety technology, and new features.

The design of the new 'MG 3' borrows heavily from the MG 5 sedan, with a similar shark-nosed front fascia with slim headlights and a wide-mouthed grille, and similar creases over the rear wheel arches.

The tail-light signatures – as seen in the spy photos yesterday – are broadly reminiscent of the MG ZS small SUV, while an exhaust tip visible in the rear confirms it is not an electric car.

Spy photos show the alloy wheels measure 16 inches across, wrapped in 195/55 R16 Kumho tyres – the same profile as the MG 3 Excite in showrooms today.

Disc brakes are visible behind all four wheels – compared to the front disc and rear drum brakes of the current MG 3 – suggesting the new vehicle's body may be heavier than that of its predecessor, or its engine may be more powerful.

Inside, spy photos show similar two-piece front seats to the MG 4 electric car due in Australian showrooms this month, though most of the dashboard remains under wraps.

A single-pane sunroof is visible in the patent photos.

UK reports – which have yet to be verified – have claimed the new MG 3 may be powered by a hybrid system, combining a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor.

It could be related to the system in the MG VS – a restyled version of the MG ZS small SUV sold in Thailand – which combines an 80kW/142Nm 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine similar to today's MG 3 with a 70kW/200Nm electric motor for 130kW combined.

More details on the next-generation 2024 MG 3 are due closer to its overseas launch expected early next year.