MG6 XPower primed to beat Subaru WRX STI
Chinese car-maker’s 227kW hybrid performance sedan packs a big punch for only $42,000MG is returning to its sports car roots with a Subaru WRX STI rival in the form of the hotted-up 2021 MG6 XPower.
A special-edition litmus test for a permanent high-performance model, the lower, wider and sportier liftback sedan revives the XPower name that was last used on the V8-powered 287kW MG ZT in 2005 – back when the brand was still British-owned.
Like its spiritual predecessor, the MG6 XPower is no body kit boaster either, capable of accelerating from 0-100km/h in a claimed 6.0 seconds.
Limited to 100 units, all of which are expected to be sold in China, the performance sedan is priced at 199,800 yuan ($A41,791), according to Chinese website Autohome.
Propelled by a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine (133kW/285Nm) in conjunction with an electric motor, the MG6 XPower pumps out a healthy 227kW and 480Nm combined.
That is significantly more muscle than most of its Asian rivals can muster, including the current 221kW/407Nm WRX STI.
In fact, the torque figure goes close to the latest Mercedes-AMG A45 S and brand-new Audi RS 3.
The transmission is a 10-speed ‘EDU’ automatic, a second-generation intelligent electric drive gearbox, according to MG, which replaces the seven-speed dual-clutch auto of regular MG6 models.
Other performance upgrades include recalibrated suspension that drops the car 10mm closer to the ground and forged magnesium alloy wheels from OZ Racing, fitted with grippy Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tyres.
Even the braking system has been upgraded, fitted with bright yellow six-piston callipers clamping larger disc brakes up front to deliver increased stopping power.
There’s plenty of eye-candy too, starting with a new front lip spoiler and a more aggressive front bumper design, complete with two tiny air intakes on the leading edge of the bonnet.
Side skirts and flared wheel-arches deliver a wider stance and the rear-end is fitted with an oversized wing that appears to have carbon-fibre elements. There’s also a new rear diffuser surrounding quad exhaust outlets.
The hero exterior metallic paint colour is called ‘Qiji Green’ along with a range of other colours.
Inside, the MG6 XPower features de rigueur sports seats – power-adjustable for the driver – with leather and suede upholstery and loads of green XPower logos joined by overt green stitching throughout.
There’s a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 10.1-inch touch-screen, not to mention EV and even KERS drive mode buttons.
The MG6 is no longer available in Australia, but MG has previously said that it would make a comeback in 2023 with a new-generation model that will tap into its sporting heritage.
That said, the forthcoming new MG5 that has already been green-lit for Australia could make the case difficult for the new MG6, given their similar dimensions.
An MG Australia spokesperson said: “We want to move forward and we’re investigating everything that’s available for Australia.”
However, he added that there were “no plans at this stage” for the MG6.
MG is also plotting a reborn MGB two-seat sports car in the form of the MG Cyberster aimed at a younger demographic.
That vehicle has been confirmed for right-hand drive and is certainly a chance to come to Australia.
“As part of our ‘Electric For Everyone’ strategy, MG Australia will now examine the Cyberster’s potential for the Australian and New Zealand markets,” the spokesperson said.
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
If the price does not contain the notation that it is "Drive Away", the price may not include additional costs, such as stamp duty and other government charges.
