Gridly
Overview
The MG4 Excite 64 is the variant where the MG4’s value proposition becomes genuinely difficult to argue against: 450km WLTP and 135kW DC charging at $43,990, backed by a seven-year unlimited warranty and wireless CarPlay. The 64kWh battery on the SIGMA platform achieves this combination at a price where most competitors offer either the range or the charging speed, but not both.
The MG4 Excite 64 is the volume model of the range and the car that most directly competes with the Kia EV3 Standard Range and the BYD Dolphin Premium. The MG4 wins on DC charging speed versus the BYD Dolphin; the Kia EV3 wins on rear-seat space; both share a seven-year warranty. The MG4’s RWD layout provides a more balanced driving character than FWD alternatives at the same price.
At $43,990 drive-away, the Excite 64 sits at a price point that was, until recently, the sole domain of much less capable EVs. That the MG4 Excite 64 achieves 450km range, fast DC charging, and a seven-year warranty here represents a genuine step-change in compact EV value.
Pricing & Variants
| Variant | Battery | Range | V2L | DC Charging | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG4 Excite 51 | 51kWh | 350km WLTP | No | 87kW | ~$37,990 |
| MG4 Excite 64 | 64kWh | 450km WLTP | No | 135kW | ~$43,990 |
| MG4 Essence 64 | 64kWh | 435km WLTP | No | 88kW | ~$42,888 |
| MG4 XPOWER AWD | 64kWh | 385km WLTP | No | 135kW | ~$53,990 |
The Excite 64 is the recommended MG4 for buyers who prioritise range and DC charging speed. The Essence 64 adds a panoramic roof and heated seats but charges more slowly at DC stations. The XPOWER adds AWD performance at the cost of range and a higher price.
Performance
The MG4 Excite 64 uses a single rear motor. 0-100 km/h takes approximately 7.7 seconds - adequate for the compact hatchback segment and more engaging than the figure suggests thanks to the RWD layout’s natural balance. Top speed is 160 km/h. The rear-wheel drive configuration is a genuine differentiator in a segment dominated by FWD alternatives - the MG4’s dynamics reward smooth, progressive inputs with a composure that the entry price does not suggest.
500kg towing capacity is rated - useful for a small trailer or bike rack.
Range and Charging
- WLTP range: 450km
- Real-world estimate: 360-390km at highway speeds (110 km/h)
- DC charging: 135kW (CCS)
- AC charging: 7.4kW (home wall charger)
- 10-80% at 135kW DC: approximately 28 minutes
- Full charge at 7.4kW AC: approximately 10 hours
The 135kW DC charging gives the MG4 Excite 64 one of the fastest DC charge rates in the compact hatchback class at this price. 28 minutes from 10-80% at a compatible CCS charger is fast enough to make highway charging practical without significant delay - comparable to a coffee and comfort stop. The 7.4kW AC charging on the single-phase onboard charger is a limitation versus the three-phase 11kW units in some competitors; confirm with MG Australia if an 11kW option is available.
Real-world highway range of 360-390km at 110 km/h provides comfortable capacity for typical Australian driving patterns.
Interior and Technology
The MG4’s interior is modern and functional. A 10.25-inch central infotainment display runs MG’s interface with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument cluster is fully digital. Physical climate control buttons below the screen reduce the need for infotainment interaction for temperature adjustments.
Interior material quality is appropriate for the price: hard-touch plastics in some areas and fabric seating reflect the entry positioning. The cabin is clean and well-designed but does not match the tactile quality of Korean or European alternatives at higher price points. Rear-seat space is adequate for the hatchback body; headroom is generous.
Practicality
Five seats, compact hatchback body. Boot capacity is 363 litres with rear seats in use - smaller than SUV-bodied alternatives but adequate for everyday use. 500kg towing enables a small trailer or bike carrier. V2L is not available on the Excite grade. The 7.4kW AC charging supports overnight home replenishment from near-depleted within approximately 10 hours.
Safety
Five-star ANCAP. MG Pilot ADAS suite: AEB with pedestrian and cyclist detection; Lane Departure Warning and Lane Keep Assist; Blind Spot Detection; Rear Cross Traffic Alert; Adaptive Cruise Control. The five-star ANCAP rating applies to the current MG4 platform tested in 2023.
Running Costs and Ownership
- Energy cost: (64 ÷ 450) × 100 × $0.30 = $4.27/100km at $0.30/kWh
- Warranty: 7 years / unlimited kilometres
- Dealer network: MG Australia’s national dealer network
At $4.27/100km, the MG4 Excite 64’s running cost is excellent for the compact hatchback class. The seven-year unlimited-kilometre warranty is the strongest in this segment - only Kia also offers a seven-year warranty on compact EVs in Australia. MG’s dealer network is strong in metropolitan areas; confirm regional coverage with your nearest dealer.
Verdict
The MG4 Excite 64 is the value benchmark in the compact EV segment. The combination of 450km range, 135kW DC charging, seven-year unlimited warranty, and wireless CarPlay at under $44,000 has no direct equivalent in the current Australian market. Buyers who prioritise specification per dollar will find it the most complete argument for its price bracket.
Interior quality and resale uncertainty relative to Korean brands are the honest trade-offs. For buyers who are comfortable with MG’s brand positioning and plan to keep the vehicle for 5+ years to maximise the warranty value, the Excite 64 is one of the best EV purchases available in Australia today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the MG4 Excite 64 faster to charge than the Essence 64?
The Excite 64 charges at 135kW DC; the Essence 64 charges at 88kW DC. Despite the Essence 64 being a higher-trim variant, the Excite 64 uses a different battery configuration that supports faster DC charging. This is an important distinction - buyers who regularly use public DC fast chargers should be aware that the Essence 64’s slower charging rate is the key trade-off for its additional equipment.
Does the MG4 have rear-wheel drive? Why does this matter?
Yes - the MG4 uses a rear-wheel-drive layout across all single-motor variants. This provides more balanced weight distribution than front-wheel drive alternatives and delivers a more engaging driving character. In wet conditions, RWD requires more driver awareness than FWD; in dry conditions, the natural balance of the RWD layout rewards progressive driving inputs.
How does the MG4 Excite 64 compare to the BYD Dolphin Premium?
The BYD Dolphin Premium (~$43,990) offers V2L capability, a five-year warranty, and BYD’s established Australian service network. The MG4 Excite 64 counters with faster DC charging (135kW vs 60kW), longer range (450km vs 427km WLTP), and MG’s 7-year unlimited warranty. For charging speed and warranty length, the MG4 wins clearly. For V2L utility, the BYD wins. The choice depends on whether you value V2L or fast DC charging more.
