The Story of MG: From classic cars to modern EVs

MG has always stood for more than simple transport. From the beginning, the badge has represented accessible excitement, driver involvement and a sense of fun often associated with far pricier sports cars. Today’s electrified MG models build on that spirit in a very different world, yet the core idea remains familiar. This is the story of how a small Oxford workshop became a global brand influencing the future of everyday electric motoring.

Origins of a motoring icon

MG’s roots lie in the early 1920s at Morris Garages, run by William Morris and his general manager, Cecil Kimber. Recognising demand for more engaging cars, Kimber began creating sportier versions of standard Morris models, sold under the Morris Garages name – soon shortened to MG. By 1924, MG operated as a distinct marque focused on affordable sporting appeal. Early models such as the MG 14/28, light, neat and responsive, helped establish the character that would define MG for decades.

MG takes to the track

During the inter-war years, MG became a favourite among club racers. Models like the M Type Midget and later T series offered light weight, eager performance and direct involvement. Motorsport successes, from trials to circuit events, reinforced MG’s reputation for providing excitement at attainable prices. At a time when many cars served purely as transport, MG proved driving could be genuinely enjoyable.

Post-war success and worldwide appeal

After WWII, MG introduced a new generation to open-top sports motoring. The TC, TD and TF roadsters were export successes, especially in the United States. The 1955 MGA marked a modern break from earlier designs and became a worldwide hit. In 1962, the MGB arrived with improved usability and comfort while retaining classic two-seater charm, becoming for many the definitive MG. Alongside these icons, MG expanded into the Magnette saloons, the revived 1961-79 Midget and the practical MGB GT, broadening the brand’s appeal during the post-war decades.

A global future under new ownership

The latter part of the 20th century brought corporate shifts through the British Motor Corporation and later British Leyland. Despite challenges, MG produced memorable cars such as the MGB GT V8, pairing the familiar shape with Rover V8 power. Market pressures eventually reduced sports car development, yet models like the MG Metro and Metro Turbo carried MG’s lively spirit into the 1980s.

MG fights back

MG revisited its heritage in the early 1990s with the limited-production MG RV8 (1992-95), signalling renewed ambition. A true revival followed with the MGF, the first all-new MG sports car since the MGB. Its mid-engine layout and advanced suspension showed the marque could still deliver engaging, modern driver’s cars. Around the millennium, MG extended its sporting approach to mainstream cars with the MG ZR, ZS and ZT, which restored much of the brand’s enthusiast appeal. The dramatic, carbon-bodied MG XPower SV (2003-05) pushed ambition further as a rare V8-powered halo model. Despite these efforts, MG Rover entered administration in 2005, placing the brand’s future in doubt.

The SAIC transformation

MG’s next chapter began when interests linked to SAIC Motor acquired the marque. Production moved overseas, engineering capacity increased and models such as the MG6 and MG3 reintroduced MG to new markets. MG also returned to touring car racing, supporting the MG6 GT’s BTCC campaign from 2012 to 2017. Crucially, elements of MG’s historic Longbridge base remained active for many years as an engineering and design centre, ensuring British development continued to influence the marque’s direction. Over time, MG evolved into a broader manufacturer focused on practical, well-equipped models aimed at value-conscious drivers.

MG in the electric age

MG’s most significant shift has come in the electric era. The MG ZS EV emerged as one of the first genuinely affordable electric family SUVs, opening the EV market to many households. It was joined by hybrid, plug-in hybrids and newer EVs offering strong range, rapid charging and everyday usability. The MG5 EV, one of the first fully electric estate cars available to mainstream buyers, added another practical and distinctive option. These were followed by the MG4 EV hatchback and the MGS5 EV and MGS6 EV SUVs, expanding MG’s electric line-up across hatchback, estate and SUV segments.

For many exploring electric motoring, MG now represents an appealing mix of value, equipment and real-world capability.

Reimagining MG performance for a new era

MG has also revived its performance heritage. The MG4 EV XPOWER launched in 2023 as a dual-motor, all-wheel-drive hot hatch delivering rapid acceleration and handling upgrades aimed at enthusiasts. The Cyberster followed as a fully electric two-seat roadster, reconnecting MG with the open-top sports car identity that made it famous. The MG IM5 has since offered brisk electric performance in a practical saloon format, appealing to drivers wanting a sporty yet everyday-usable EV. Alongside these models sits the IM6 in its higher-powered configurations, bringing strong electric performance to the SUV segment and rounding out MG’s modern performance line-up.

Old values, new technologies

Despite a century of change, MG’s underlying approach remains consistent: offering more excitement than many mainstream models at prices that are accessible to all. Classic MGs delivered fun through compact, cleverly packaged bodies; a theme echoed in today’s electric hatchbacks and crossovers that maximise space, efficiency and character. Though shapes and powertrains have evolved dramatically, MG’s focus on attainable enjoyment continues to link the marque’s early years with its electric future.

A heritage alive in Eastbourne

For motorists in East Sussex, this heritage is visible in the MG EVs on local roads. Where early MGs chased reliability medals and speed records, today’s models pursue range, charging speed and safety while still providing something that feels special without a premium price tag.

At Birchwood, this history helps customers understand MG’s modern line-up. Many are surprised by how advanced today’s models are, and reassured by the continuity of MG’s character. From carburettors to fuel injection, analogue gauges to digital screens and petrol engines to electric motors, MG has consistently balanced innovation with accessibility.

MG – a brand as relevant now as it has ever been

MG has evolved from classic sports cars to practical electric vehicles, yet its focus on attainable enjoyment remains unchanged. For drivers moving toward electric motoring, MG offers modern technology shaped by a century of heritage; cars that feel familiar, dependable and ready for the future.