New MG3 2021 detailed: Segment-leading light hatch to get update - but big changes in store for next-generation Kia Rio rival

The MG3 has slowly but surely bubbled to the top of the rapidly shrinking light-car segment, but with its most recent facelift now more than two years old, is there a replacement on the way?

That was our question to MG Motor Australia’s marketing boss, Danny Lenartic, at the launch of the ZST small SUV.

“The MG3 will be updated next year, with a new-generation vehicle on the way,” Mr Lenartic said. Information on the MG3 is scarce, as it is not offered in the brand’s home market of China.

“It’s more of an international model,” Mr Lenartic said, with SAIC MG’s range in its Chinese home market consisting of the MG6 Camry-sized sedan, ZS small SUV, HS mid-size SUV and soon the MG5 Corolla-sized sedan.

Meanwhile, volume right-hand-drive markets include the MG3 hatch alongside the Extender LDV T60-based ute, and soon the Gloster LDV D90-based large SUV.

The incoming update to the MG3 is understood to be minor, and will not bring sorely needed active safety technology or new drivetrains.

The incoming MG3 update slated for 2021 is understood to be only a minor upgrade.

Right now, the MG3 can only be selected with a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine (82kW/150Nm) and a four-speed torque converter automatic.

Its keen entry price of $16,490 has been key to its success, with its nearest segment rival, the Kia Rio, starting from $20,390 for an equivalent base automatic. It is also offered with a brand-wide seven-year/unlimited-kilometre warranty.

Of the new-generation car slated for 2022 or beyond, Mr Lenartic said: “We’re not sure what that might look like,” indicating the light hatch could be a significantly different product available in other body-styles or perhaps as an electric-only vehicle.

The MG ZS EV promises to be Australia's cheapest mainstream electric vehicle, will a new-generation MG3 follow suit?

The success of the MG3 hatch, ZS small SUV and now HS mid-sizer has given MG Motor’s Australian division a “stronger voice” at the table of its SAIC parent company, and the brand is “excited” about the opportunity new vehicles like the MG5 sedan present for the Australian market. Its next vehicle to launch will be the ZS EV before the end of the year.