MG has refreshed its MG4 EV for 2026, and while the update brings meaningful improvements to design and technology, it also marks a quiet reshuffle of the brand’s electric pecking order in right-hand-drive markets.

Launched in the UK this week, the updated MG4 EV is no longer the brand’s cheapest electric car. That title now belongs to a new sibling called the MG4 EV Urban, a more rounded, front-wheel-drive model that undercuts the refreshed MG4 by a sizeable margin.

Prices for the updated MG4 EV now start at £29,995 (A$58,611), while the Urban variant opens from just £23,495 ($45,910). That is a gap of almost 22%, signalling MG’s intent to provide an even more affordable option for EV buyers.

MG summed up the refresh succinctly in its UK announcement, describing the new MG4 EV as an evolution of a car that has already collected more than 40 awards globally.

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Interior upgrades finally address long-standing feedback

The biggest changes are found inside the cabin, where MG has tackled several criticisms levelled at the outgoing MG4.

The centre touchscreen has grown from 10.25 inches to 12.8 inches, bringing it into line with the MGS5 EV SUV launched in Australia in early 2025. The driver display has also been better integrated behind the steering wheel, improving clarity and ergonomics without overcomplicating the layout.

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MG has reworked the floating dashboard, repositioned air vents, and placed physical buttons in more intuitive locations. These sound like small tweaks, but together they significantly improve day-to-day usability. Cupholders are now closer to the driver, the seating materials have been upgraded, and overall cabin comfort has taken a step forward.

Crucially, MG has not abandoned variety. The refreshed MG4 EV continues to be offered with rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, including the high-performance X-Power variant that helped define the model’s reputation.

The Urban variant signals what’s coming for Australia

The new MG4 EV Urban is arguably the more important story for Australia.

Positioned below the refreshed MG4 EV, the Urban uses a front-wheel-drive setup and a softer, more rounded design approach, clearly aimed at cost-conscious buyers entering the EV market for the first time.

At UK pricing, the Urban sits squarely in territory that would translate to the low $30,000 range locally if MG follows its usual pricing strategy. That would put it directly against the BYD Dolphin Essential, as well as upcoming small electric hatchbacks like the GAC Aion UT and Geely EX2.

MG has not confirmed Australian pricing or specifications, but with Urban prototypes already spotted testing in late 2025, a local launch later this year looks increasingly likely. If it lands at the right price, it could become one of the most competitive entry-level EVs in the country.