Super-hot MG4 XPower to debut at Festival of Speed

Judging by the teasers, it seems very much like a heavily modified MG4, rather than a restomod, which we prefer actually. Even though we can’t see all that much, the massive arches, wing and gurning chin spoiler are enough to show a family resemblance with the old Group B legend. This is going to be a properly cool thing. The weird bit? Underneath is the heart of the hot hatch that’s actually going into production.

That hot hatch is called the MG4 XPower and it’s getting its public debut at the 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

The numbers are, in a way, frightening. This version of the humble MG4 hatch gets two motors for around 435PS (320kW) and 600Nm (443lb ft) of torque, getting it from 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds. That used to be the realm of cars like the Porsche Carrera GT. Now you can get that kind of performance for £36,495 in an unassuming hatchback.

Indeed, unlike many hot hatch offerings of recent years, it doesn’t wear that prodigious performance on its sleeve. Visual upgrades include relatively subtle ‘XPower’ brake calipers, polished trim accents and perhaps most noticeably, a new racing green paint scheme.

So what about matching that power with handling? Well, the standard MG4 is, respectfully, surprisingly good to drive, so it’s not hugely surprising that there are a few upgrades to complement the performance. There’s a new Dynamic Cornering Control System, featuring a locking diff and intelligent motor control, allowing for four-wheel torque vectoring. Not quite a Rimac, obviously, but it’ll surely be a hoot. The springs and dampers have been tickled, as have the anti-roll bars and steering, while bigger brakes complete the set-up.

“We’re confident the MG4 XPower will shake-up the market like the MG4 SE and Trophy, showing that a compact EV can be affordable, practical and a terrific drive,” said Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director at MG Motor UK.

“We expect it will appeal to customers looking for a pure performance offering which is the antithesis of the traditionally ‘loud’ high performance hatchback. The XPower also retains the generous technology and equipment levels, as well as practical hatchback features, of the award-winning MG4 range.”

Could this new XPower be a Golf R beater? Good lord, what a thing to be saying about an MG of all things in 2023. We’re so excited to see it in action at the Festival of Speed, along with the incredible EX4 and of course, the Cyberster sportscar.

The 2023 Goodwood Festival of Speed takes place from 13^th-16^th July. Be sure to check back here at Goodwood Road & Racing to keep up to date with all of the latest news and announcements.