MG Comet review, road test

Can MG’s mould-breaking EV redefine the concept of an urban hatchback? We put it through our instrumented tests to find out.

Published on Jul 19, 2023 08:00:00 AM

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Being based on a born-electric platform, the Comet’s space management is excellent. Since there isn’t an engine and gearbox, the HVAC unit has been moved from its traditional location, thus freeing up space beneath the dashboard, and the centre console has been done away with altogether. Not only does it add to the sense of space, but since the driver’s door of our test car didn’t open from the outside due to a technical fault, it was very easy to slide into the driver’s seat from the passenger side.

Clockwise from left: Rotary drive selector swivels with satisfying heft; It comes to life with two taps to the brake pedal; Hazard light switch is placed on the roof; Storage is limited and glove box is missing.

What you’ll truly appreciate is its bright cabin, the expansive glass area and the minimalistic theme with a twin-screen set-up that looks classy and futuristic. The quality of bits feels top-notch, as does the build of the interiors. The two-spoke steering, smart key and even the rotary drive selector are reminiscent of the earlier-gen iPods in the way they’re designed and operate.

As mentioned, the LFP battery pack is placed beneath the front seats and, as a result, the seats are rather high-set to begin with, and the driving position is upright, very van-like with a steering that’s angled upwards. Shorter drivers or new drivers will appreciate this position as it gives them excellent frontal visibility, and makes it very easy to judge the front edges of the car. What is a bit concerning is that while reversing out of a perpendicular spot, the passenger seat does create a huge blind spot.

Front seats are rather highset. Stubby seat base hampers thigh support.

The front seats themselves offer limited recline and no height adjustment, and because the squab is short with a roundish design towards the end, thigh support is lacking. We also noticed squeaks emanating from the handbrake console, particularly when both front seats are occupied.

Thanks to its wide-opening doors, and an easy access lever to slide the front seat forward, access to the second row from a largish cavity is quite easy. Its rear seat is for two adults only, but what’s surprising is that even taller folk will fit quite easily, with the aircraft-style vertical (fixed) windows adding to its bright and airy ambience. Occupants are seated low, so thigh support is lacking and its low, fixed head restraints will not protect rear passengers from whiplash injuries in the event of a rear collision.

Rear is bright, airy and surprisingly spacious for two adults.

In terms of storage and practicality, its door bins are quite accommodating, and there are cupholders in front of the air vents on the extreme ends, which is a clever way of keeping your beverages cool. Owners will miss a glovebox, and will be forced to stow their smartphones on an open shelf on the dash; however, since the base isn’t rubberised, the phone will slide around while on the move. There are storage hooks beneath the air-con console, as well as USB charging ports and a 12V socket. Rear passengers get useful front seatback pockets too.

Super-slim boot with rear seats in place. Backrest can fold flat 50:50.

With the last row in place, the boot can only accommodate MG’s portable charger and a laptop bag at best. Interestingly, its rear seats fold flat 50:50, and with them tucked away and some sensible space management, you can easily haul four large and two medium-sized suitcases, thanks to its boxy dimensions, which is significantly more than what its size suggests.