Real-World Fuel Economy Test: MG3 Hybrid Plus vs. Suzuki Swift
In the world of small hybrid cars, the MG3 Hybrid Plus stands out for its competitive pricing and fuel efficiency. In a recent journey from Worthing to Pendennis Point in Falmouth, we put the MG3 Hybrid Plus to the test against the Suzuki Swift, a rival that boasts similar specs and pricing. The goal? To see whether the MG3 could beat the impressive fuel economy of its competitor.
Setting the Scene
This fuel economy test, which took place over a round trip of 261 miles, involved driving under comparable conditions to the earlier Swift test. The MG3 Hybrid Plus has a slightly smaller fuel tank at 37 liters compared to the Swift's 38 liters, posing a question on whether this difference could affect the overall mileage.
As we geared up for the journey, it was clear that the MG3 offers a compelling hybrid setup, combining a 1.5-liter petrol engine and an electric motor with a total output of 194 horsepower. In terms of fuel economy, the MG3 claims a combined figure of 64.2 mpg, identical to that of the Swift. The journey promised to be an interesting race against expectations.
The Journey Begins
Equipped with a three-speed automatic gearbox, the MG3 is designed for efficiency rather than speed. It hits 62 mph in 8 seconds, which is significantly quicker than the Swift, clocking in at 12.5 seconds. With variables like driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—and external factors including temperature and tire pressure settings, the test was set to reveal the MG3’s true potential.
As the journey progressed, the MG3 exhibited relatively stable and impressive fuel economies. Initial reports of around 68.9 mpg were promising, although fluctuations due to acceleration and stoppages impacted the overall readings. Notably, the car operates in electric mode intermittently, depending on battery levels.
First Impressions
Throughout the driving experience, several features drew attention. The interior of the MG3 felt contemporary, contrasted with the Swift's more dated design. With a 10.25-inch touchscreen and 7-inch digital driver display, the MG3 offers more technological perks than the Swift's setup.
However, there were concerns—road noise seemed more pronounced in the MG3, prompting the need to speak up within the cabin. Additionally, the ride felt firmer than the Swift's, a factor that may influence comfort for long distances.
As the journey continued, issues like an unexplained beeping noise were discovered and resolved quickly, showcasing the ease of use of the car's touchscreen controls and connectivity features.
Navigating Challenges
Entering Devon and later on into Dorset, the predicted range dropped significantly due to hilly terrain, with the mileage fluctuating as the terrain tested the vehicle's limits. With confidence waning slightly, it became clear that these conditions would pose a challenge to the fuel efficiency expected.
Despite the drop in predicted fuel economy, the MG3 remained a capable vehicle, with the onboard computer suggesting an average of 70.6 mpg before making the return journey. This highlighted the MG3's adaptability over various terrains despite its fluctuating efficiency in testing conditions.
The Conclusion
Upon arrival back in Worthing, the MG3 effectively completed the 261-mile round trip with notable fuel savings. After filling up, it achieved a final figure of 67.58 mpg, slightly trailing the Suzuki Swift's earlier reading. However, the MG3 still emerged victorious in terms of features, design, and driving satisfaction.
The MG3's advantages included a more modern aesthetic, superior seating comfort, and performance. The MG3 offers a considerable 7-year warranty, enhancing its positioning in the competitive landscape against the Swift.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, while the MG3 Hybrid Plus may not have topped the fuel economy charts, the journey illustrated that choices in the hybrid segment can affect more than just numbers. Preferences towards aesthetics, driving comfort, and feature sets play significant roles in the automotive decision-making process. Thus, while the Suzuki Swift just edged out the MG3 on fuel economy, many might gravitate towards the MG3 for its overall package.
This test validates that both vehicles have their merits, and the decision will hinge on what aspects of a car matter most to the driver. The race was closely contested, with the MG3 standing tall on various fronts, promising a delightful driving experience and reliability for the journey ahead.
Part 1/7:
Real-World Fuel Economy Test: MG3 Hybrid Plus vs. Suzuki Swift
In the world of small hybrid cars, the MG3 Hybrid Plus stands out for its competitive pricing and fuel efficiency. In a recent journey from Worthing to Pendennis Point in Falmouth, we put the MG3 Hybrid Plus to the test against the Suzuki Swift, a rival that boasts similar specs and pricing. The goal? To see whether the MG3 could beat the impressive fuel economy of its competitor.
Setting the Scene
This fuel economy test, which took place over a round trip of 261 miles, involved driving under comparable conditions to the earlier Swift test. The MG3 Hybrid Plus has a slightly smaller fuel tank at 37 liters compared to the Swift's 38 liters, posing a question on whether this difference could affect the overall mileage.
Part 2/7:
As we geared up for the journey, it was clear that the MG3 offers a compelling hybrid setup, combining a 1.5-liter petrol engine and an electric motor with a total output of 194 horsepower. In terms of fuel economy, the MG3 claims a combined figure of 64.2 mpg, identical to that of the Swift. The journey promised to be an interesting race against expectations.
The Journey Begins
Equipped with a three-speed automatic gearbox, the MG3 is designed for efficiency rather than speed. It hits 62 mph in 8 seconds, which is significantly quicker than the Swift, clocking in at 12.5 seconds. With variables like driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—and external factors including temperature and tire pressure settings, the test was set to reveal the MG3’s true potential.
Part 3/7:
As the journey progressed, the MG3 exhibited relatively stable and impressive fuel economies. Initial reports of around 68.9 mpg were promising, although fluctuations due to acceleration and stoppages impacted the overall readings. Notably, the car operates in electric mode intermittently, depending on battery levels.
First Impressions
Throughout the driving experience, several features drew attention. The interior of the MG3 felt contemporary, contrasted with the Swift's more dated design. With a 10.25-inch touchscreen and 7-inch digital driver display, the MG3 offers more technological perks than the Swift's setup.
Part 4/7:
However, there were concerns—road noise seemed more pronounced in the MG3, prompting the need to speak up within the cabin. Additionally, the ride felt firmer than the Swift's, a factor that may influence comfort for long distances.
As the journey continued, issues like an unexplained beeping noise were discovered and resolved quickly, showcasing the ease of use of the car's touchscreen controls and connectivity features.
Navigating Challenges
Entering Devon and later on into Dorset, the predicted range dropped significantly due to hilly terrain, with the mileage fluctuating as the terrain tested the vehicle's limits. With confidence waning slightly, it became clear that these conditions would pose a challenge to the fuel efficiency expected.
Part 5/7:
Despite the drop in predicted fuel economy, the MG3 remained a capable vehicle, with the onboard computer suggesting an average of 70.6 mpg before making the return journey. This highlighted the MG3's adaptability over various terrains despite its fluctuating efficiency in testing conditions.
The Conclusion
Upon arrival back in Worthing, the MG3 effectively completed the 261-mile round trip with notable fuel savings. After filling up, it achieved a final figure of 67.58 mpg, slightly trailing the Suzuki Swift's earlier reading. However, the MG3 still emerged victorious in terms of features, design, and driving satisfaction.
Part 6/7:
The MG3's advantages included a more modern aesthetic, superior seating comfort, and performance. The MG3 offers a considerable 7-year warranty, enhancing its positioning in the competitive landscape against the Swift.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, while the MG3 Hybrid Plus may not have topped the fuel economy charts, the journey illustrated that choices in the hybrid segment can affect more than just numbers. Preferences towards aesthetics, driving comfort, and feature sets play significant roles in the automotive decision-making process. Thus, while the Suzuki Swift just edged out the MG3 on fuel economy, many might gravitate towards the MG3 for its overall package.
Part 7/7:
This test validates that both vehicles have their merits, and the decision will hinge on what aspects of a car matter most to the driver. The race was closely contested, with the MG3 standing tall on various fronts, promising a delightful driving experience and reliability for the journey ahead.