SAIC Motor

MG Motor Australia has released a special-edition version of the MG 3 light car, dubbed MG 3S, priced from $16,990 drive-away. Based on the MG 3 Core specification, the MG 3S gains a "sports inspired dynamic" by adding side skirts, a black rear spoiler, black painted wheels, limited-edition badging, weather shields, and custom keyrings.

China’s LDV, which has been making some progress in Australia with the T60 dual-cab ute, budget G10 van and (less so) D90 SUV under independent distributor Ateco, is poised for major expansion into various vehicle segments and every variety of electrification. The infant (11-year old) company, part of the sprawling government-owned SAIC Motor group of Shanghai, also has startlingly ambitious plans to grow annual sales from 84,000 to 4 million, albeit over a rather elusive timeline.

SAIC Motor has announced it will be taking over the distribution of its MG subsidiary in New Zealand from British Motor Distributors. As part of the move, the company will introduce the MG3 automatic hatchback and ZS crossover to the New Zealand market later this year, joining the existing MG6 Plus, MG3 manual and GS SUV.

The updated 2018 MG 3 range has been scheduled for a third-quarter arrival in Australia, the company has told CarAdvice this week. A firm date is yet to be confirmed, but the new MG 3 will get a significant update inside and out, likely mirroring the changes seen in its home market of China (pictured).

SUVs are where it’s at these days, and it’s the smaller ones that are the most popular thanks to their blend of everyday practicality with affordable pricing. The latest addition to the small SUV party, the 2018 MG ZS, will launch locally in October. MG has confirmed three trim levels will be offered, along with the choice of two engines depending on grade.