MG is preparing to launch its new MG 07 mid-size sedan in China, but the rollout has been overshadowed by online controversy over its design. As uncamouflaged pre-production units appear on public roads, MG executives are working to manage both criticism and the brand’s modest domestic market share.
Live Broadcast Halted Over Design Accusations
MG General Manager Chen Cui abruptly ended a corporate live broadcast after coordinated user comments accused the MG 07 of copying the design of the Porsche Taycan and Xiaomi SU7. The incident highlights the sensitivity around design originality in China’s competitive EV market.
Despite the backlash, MG continues to move forward with the MG 07’s retail rollout, aiming to strengthen its position in the domestic market.
MG 07: Architecture and Design
Certified regulatory documents list the MG 07’s dimensions at 4,886 mm (~192 inches) long, 1,900 mm (~75 inches) wide, and 1,478 mm (~58 inches) high, with a 2,825 mm (~111 inches) wheelbase. The sedan features a shark-nose front, smooth side surfaces, and a pronounced rear muscle line above the trailing wheel arch.
Additional design elements include standard rear privacy glass, a variety of factory alloy wheel options, and contrasting yellow performance brake callipers.
Advanced Hardware and Sensor Suite
The MG 07 is equipped with a roof-mounted lidar enclosure, supporting advanced driver assistance features. Multiple optical cameras are integrated into the front windshield, side panels, and exterior mirrors.
Millimetre-wave radar units and ultrasonic distance sensors are positioned in the lower bumper and rear valence, enabling functions such as automated parking, active lane keeping, lane centring, and highway pilot navigation.
Powertrain Options and Performance
Buyers can choose between pure battery-electric and plug-in hybrid versions of the MG 07. The electric variant uses a 176 kW (239 horsepower) rear-drive motor, with certified CLTC ranges of 610 km (~379 miles) and 650 km (~404 miles), depending on battery capacity.
The plug-in hybrid pairs an 82 kW 1.5-litre combustion engine with a 152 kW electric motor, offering a WLTC pure-electric range of 185 km (~115 miles). This hybrid setup also underpins a recently leaked wagon variant.
MG’s Domestic Market Performance
MG remains a major exporter, delivering over 700,000 vehicles globally on an annualised basis. However, its domestic retail market share was just 1.1% in May 2026.
In May 2026, MG recorded 17,570 domestic registrations, contributing to a year-to-date local volume of 84,275 vehicles. Registration data has fluctuated over the past year, with 7,009 units in June 2025 and a peak of 21,402 units in December.
Why this matters
The MG 07’s launch comes at a time when design originality and advanced technology are under close scrutiny in China’s EV market. The controversy over its styling and the brand’s efforts to clarify its design intent reflect the challenges faced by manufacturers seeking to grow their domestic presence.
MG’s ability to address criticism and deliver a technologically advanced product will be key to improving its market share in China, where competition is intense and consumer expectations are high.
What this means for buyers
Prospective buyers should be aware of the MG 07’s advanced driver assistance features, multiple powertrain options, and its positioning as a mid-size sedan with a focus on technology. Those interested in the model may want to follow how MG responds to ongoing design debates and monitor the vehicle’s reception once sales begin.
Given MG’s strong export performance but modest domestic share, buyers should also consider after-sales support and local market feedback as the MG 07 enters showrooms.
Key Specs
- Length: 4,886 mm (~192 inches)
- Width: 1,900 mm (~75 inches)
- Height: 1,478 mm (~58 inches)
- Wheelbase: 2,825 mm (~111 inches)
- Powertrain Options: Pure electric and plug-in hybrid
- Electric Motor Output: 176 kW (239 hp)
- CLTC Range (Electric): 610 km (~379 miles) / 650 km (~404 miles)
- WLTC Pure-Electric Range (PHEV): 185 km (~115 miles)
Source
Images sourced from: carnewschina.com
