2024 MG Cyber​​ster Review

Nowadays, Malaysia's pure electric sports car market is gradually becoming more active, but there are limited options for two-door electric sports cars in the 300,000-ringgit price range—either the premium for imported brands is too high, or there is difficulty in balancing configuration and performance. As the first all-electric two-door sports car from MG, the MG Cyberster enters this niche market with a pricing of 319,900 ringgit. Its core selling points hit the pain points of consumers directly: 503PS combined power, 3.2-second 0-100 km/h acceleration, and a 446-kilometer range. It is also equipped with Bose audio, a full-LCD instrument panel, and other features. The main purpose of this test drive is to verify whether it can strike a balance between "sports car performance" and "everyday practicality" and whether it lives up to its positioning as an "affordable electric sports car."

The exterior design of the MG Cyberster immediately reveals its sports car genes. The overall lines are sleek and low, with the front adopting MG's signature large-size blackened grille complemented by narrow LED headlights, exuding strong aggression. The air vents on both sides of the front bumper are not just decorative but also optimize aerodynamics. The side profile of the car features the classic proportions of a two-door sports car, with a waistline running from the front fender through to the rear, enhanced by 20-inch large wheels (front 245/40 R20, rear 275/35 R20), giving it a powerful visual impact. The rear design is a highlight, with a through-type LED taillight cluster embedded with the MG logo in the middle, boasting high recognizability when lit. The diffuser at the lower rear bumper echoes the front design, further reinforcing the sporty vibe. The lighting system comes standard with LED lights across the board, including automatic headlights and daytime running lights, achieving a balance between practicality and aesthetics.

Once inside, the interior style leans towards minimalist sportiness without excessive decoration. The dashboard is wrapped in soft-touch materials paired with metallic strips, providing the tactile quality one would expect. The instrument panel consists of a 10.25-inch main screen with two 7-inch auxiliary screens on both sides, providing clear information and real-time data such as power output and range. The center console screen is a 7-inch touch screen, with straightforward operating logic and is easy to use, though the screen size is not particularly large for cars in the same price range. In terms of features, keyless entry, multifunction steering wheel, and 6-way electrically adjustable seats (with lumbar support) are all standard, ensuring that both the driver and passenger can find a comfortable seating position. Automatic air conditioning, a 360-degree panoramic camera, and ACC adaptive cruise control are not missing, making everyday use convenient. The Bose 8-speaker audio system is a bonus, offering sound quality that is decent for a sports car. In terms of space, the car measures 4535×1913×1329mm, with a wheelbase of 2690mm. As a two-door sports car, the front-row space is sufficiently spacious, and passengers up to 180cm tall won't feel cramped in terms of headroom and legroom. The trunk has a capacity of 249 liters, which can accommodate two carry-on suitcases without issue, adequate for daily commutes or short trips, though it may fall short for long-distance storage needs.

In terms of performance, the MG Cyberster is equipped with front and rear dual permanent magnet synchronous motors, delivering a combined output of 375kW (503PS) and a combined torque of 725N·m, with an official 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.2 seconds. During the actual driving experience, switching to sport mode and pressing the accelerator instantly delivers a strong feeling of acceleration, with almost no delay in power response. Overtaking requires only a light press of the pedal, and the car shows more than enough capacity for high-speed overtaking as well. In eco mode, the power output becomes smoother, making it more suitable for daily city commutes without a jerky acceleration feel. The handling performance is commendable; the front double wishbone and rear multi-link independent suspension combination maintains good body support during cornering, with well-controlled body roll. The steering wheel provides precise handling with minimal slack, offering clear feedback from the road surface. When dealing with bumpy roads, the suspension absorbs most of the minor vibrations, but going over speed bumps still results in noticeable jolts. After all, this is a sports car tuning, where comfort is compromised in favor of handling performance.

In terms of range and charging, the official range is 446 kilometers. We tested it on mixed urban roads (approximately 60% congested) and highways (about 40%) with the air conditioning set to 24°C throughout. The final range achievement rate was around 85%, which means it could actually run about 379 kilometers. This performance is considered above average among electric sports cars. Fast charging takes only 0.63 hours (about 38 minutes) to charge from 30% to 80%, while slow charging takes 10.5 hours. Using fast charging for daily energy replenishment is very convenient. Noise control is well-executed; when driving at low speeds in the city, the motor noise is almost inaudible. At 120 km/h on the highway, wind and tire noise are present but within an acceptable range and do not affect conversations inside the car. The energy recovery system has different adjustable levels; the highest level provides a noticeable drag, and after getting used to it, you can drive in one-pedal mode. The lower level feels closer to the coasting behavior of a fuel-powered car.

Overall, MG Cyberster has significant standout advantages: a 3.2-second acceleration performance that has virtually no rivals in the same price range. In terms of configuration, it offers practical features such as Bose audio and electrically adjustable seats, which are more than its competitors. The pricing at 319,900 Malaysian Ringgit is also more affordable compared to imported electric sports cars. Comparing it to peers like Tesla Roadster (not available on the Malaysian market) or the Porsche 718 electric version (more expensive), MG Cyberster exhibits a clear advantage in cost-effectiveness. However, it does have some drawbacks, such as a relatively small central control screen, limited trunk space, and suspension tuning that leans on the stiff side, which impacts some of its comfort.

This car has a very clear target audience: firstly, young people who like the look and performance of sports cars but are on a budget. With 300,000 Malaysian Ringgit, you can own an electric sports car capable of 3-second-level acceleration, making it very accessible. Secondly, it's for consumers who need a car for daily commuting but occasionally want to enjoy driving fun. Its range and configurations meet everyday needs, and its performance allows for occasional excitement. Thirdly, it is for users who are not overly attached to brand names and value cost-effectiveness and practicality more.

In summary, the MG Cyberster is an "electric sports car you can drive daily." It does not sacrifice too much practicality for performance, and the price of 319,900 Malaysian Ringgit allows more people to achieve their dream of owning a sports car. If you're looking for an electric sports car that balances performance, features, and cost-effectiveness, the MG Cyberster is worth considering.