New MG 4 Urban : If you’ve been considering an electric hatchback, some intriguing news has emerged that could change your options significantly. MG Motor’s parent company, SAIC Motor, recently filed a trademark application in Australia for something called the “MG 4 EV Urban.” This might sound like just another name variation, but it actually hints at something much more interesting – the possibility of having two distinct electric hatchback choices under the MG 4 umbrella.
What Makes This Development So Interesting?
The trademark filing isn’t just administrative paperwork. It represents MG’s strategy to expand their electric vehicle lineup in a way that gives buyers more choice without confusing the market. Think of it like how smartphone manufacturers offer different sizes of the same phone – you get the core experience but with options that suit different preferences and needs.
The current MG 4 isn’t going anywhere, according to MG Motor Australia, but it could be joined by a newer electric hatch that’s quite different from what’s currently available. This approach allows the brand to serve a broader range of customers without abandoning what’s already working well.
Understanding the Two Different Approaches
The existing MG 4 has built a solid reputation, particularly in Australia where it became the fifth best-selling electric vehicle in the first half of 2025. It’s known for its sportier, more angular design and has found its audience among buyers who want something that looks distinctly modern and dynamic.
The potential MG 4 EV Urban represents a different philosophy entirely. Despite featuring design elements inspired by the Cyberster, this new hatch is much more softly styled than the existing MG 4. Where the current model appeals to buyers who want their car to make a statement, the Urban variant seems designed for those who prefer a more refined, approachable appearance.
What We Know About the MG 4 EV Urban’s Specifications
The technical details reveal that this isn’t simply a cosmetic refresh. The new hatch is 108mm longer, 6mm wider and up to 47mm taller than the current MG 4, built on a 45mm longer wheelbase. These aren’t just numbers – they translate to meaningful differences in everyday use.
The longer wheelbase typically means more rear passenger space and potentially better ride comfort. The increased overall length often allows for more cargo space, which could make the Urban variant more appealing to families or anyone who regularly needs to carry more than just the basics.
From a powertrain perspective, the Urban appears to use a single electric motor setup. Technical specifications list a rear-mounted 120kW electric motor with a kerb weight of 1485kg, powered by a 70kWh lithium iron phosphate battery. This suggests a focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness rather than maximum performance.
Revolutionary Battery Technology
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this development involves the battery technology. The new model is set to incorporate semi-solid-state battery technology, which represents a significant step forward from conventional lithium-ion batteries. MG general manager Chen Cui has confirmed the MG 4 will become “the world’s first mass-produced semi-solid-state battery vehicle”, featuring only five percent liquid electrolyte.
This technology offers several advantages over traditional batteries. Semi-solid-state batteries typically provide better energy density, meaning more range from the same physical space. They also tend to be safer, with reduced risk of thermal runaway, and can potentially last longer over many charge cycles. For everyday users, this could translate to less range anxiety and lower long-term ownership costs.
Interior Design That Focuses on Practicality
The interior approach also signals a different target market. The Urban variant features what’s described as a minimalist design with a beige color scheme – a notable departure from the darker, more aggressive interiors often found in sporty electric vehicles. The large landscape-oriented touchscreen and simplified control layout suggest a focus on ease of use rather than technical complexity.
The integration with smartphone technology appears particularly thoughtful. The system will work with devices from Oppo, Huawei, and Apple, supporting voice commands, gesture navigation, and smartphone mirroring. This level of integration could make the car feel like a natural extension of your digital life rather than a separate system you need to learn.
Strategic Positioning in the Market
MG’s approach here reflects a sophisticated understanding of how the electric vehicle market is evolving. Rather than trying to make one car appeal to everyone, they’re creating distinct options that serve different customer needs. The original MG 4 can continue appealing to buyers who want something sportier and more distinctive, while the Urban variant targets those who prioritize comfort, practicality, and a more conventional aesthetic.
This strategy could be particularly effective in markets like Australia, where the electric vehicle adoption curve includes both early technology adopters and more mainstream buyers who are just beginning to consider electric options seriously.
What This Means for Potential Buyers
If you’re in the market for an electric hatchback, this development suggests you might want to wait and see what options emerge. The current MG 4 offers good value and performance, but the Urban variant could provide a different set of advantages that might align better with your specific needs.
The softer styling and larger dimensions of the Urban could make it more appealing if you need a car that feels more like a traditional family vehicle. The semi-solid-state battery technology could offer better long-term value and reduced charging anxiety.
Timeline and Availability Considerations
MG wouldn’t confirm whether the new electric hatch had been locked in for Australian release, nor whether it could wear the MG 4 EV Urban nameplate. However, the company’s track record with trademark applications suggests this isn’t just speculation. Most of their recent trademark filings have resulted in actual vehicles reaching the market.
The trademark filing represents MG’s effort to maintain flexibility as they expand their electric vehicle offerings. This approach allows them to respond to market demand and competitive pressures while keeping their options open for how exactly they position and name their products.
The Bigger Picture for Electric Vehicle Choice
This development reflects broader trends in the electric vehicle industry, where manufacturers are moving beyond one-size-fits-all approaches to offer more specialized options. Just as traditional car buyers have long had choices between sporty and comfort-oriented variants of popular models, electric vehicle buyers are starting to see similar diversification.
The MG 4 EV Urban trademark filing suggests we’re entering a phase where electric vehicle choice will be based not just on range and price, but on distinctly different approaches to design, comfort, and user experience. This evolution should ultimately benefit consumers by providing more options that closely match individual preferences and needs.