2024 款 MG RX8 30T
| Pros: – The price is competitive – Cabin décor and space – Comfortable ride | Cons: – The speed is not particularly fast – Average fuel economy – Limited cross-country ability |
Over the past decade, Chinese automaker SAIC has become a global player. SAIC owns a wide range of brands, even producing cars for Volkswagen and Chevrolet in many markets, as well as the Morris Garages brand, and today the century-old British brand offers a full range of mainstream models made in China. The midsize MG RX8 is SAIC's largest SUV lineup in the Middle East.
The RX8 is a classic and handsome SUV that debuted locally in 2020. However, considering that its origins date back to 2018, its design appears calm compared to the facelifted competitors that have emerged since. So, 2024 happens to be the last year of the RX8.
The most distinctive exterior feature of the RX8 is the front bumper, which houses a very conspicuous LED light cluster on a modest front end with a large grille and square headlights. Roof rails and faux twin exhaust pipes are standard. Available wheel sizes include 18-inch or 20-inch alloys.
Inside the car, the MG RX8's cockpit is where it really shines. Although very simple, the use of high-quality cockpit finishing materials, including soft-touch surfaces and upholstered leather on many of the upper trim pieces, creates an upscale environment. There are few buttons on the center console, replaced by a prominent 10.1-inch touchscreen. Both the central cup holder and the storage cabinet have lids, which make the interior of the car look very clean. The influence of the vintage Volkswagen is evident in small details like the dial-style sunroof controls and certain ambient lighting details, and that's never a bad thing.
One of the biggest selling points of the RX8 is its space. With a well-designed cabin layout, it offers plenty of space for first- and second-row passengers, and even the third row can comfortably accommodate adults, albeit a bit cramped. The tall body and standard panoramic glass sunroof add to the sense of space, making the interior feel more open and airy. The boot is also a good size, with the usual storage space in the car, including a cooling glove box.
The front seats are moderately thickened and come standard with 8-way electric driver adjustments. The interior of the cabin can be upholstered in fabric (our test car has red trim and stitching), and even the top trim is in leather, and some Black Edition models also have quilted upholstery.
From a technical standpoint, the RX8 comes with quite a few basic comfort features. The touchscreen infotainment system, while it may not be the most advanced in its class, is very convenient to use.
Other features include all the essential features, including automatic LED headlights and taillights, cruise control, smart keyless entry and start, electric parking brake, quick lift power windows, rear camera with front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth, Android Auto and Apple Carplay connectivity, front and rear USB ports, 220V power outlets for rear passengers, 12V sockets in the trunk, and a decent sound system, even if limited to 6 or 8 depending on the trim speakers. The top-of-the-line trim comes with a power tailgate, wireless charger, rain-sensing wipers, and cooled front seats.
Our test was conducted in Dubai in October, so we didn't get a chance to try the climate-controlled air conditioner in the middle of summer, but it did come with separate rear digital controls and vents.
The standard security features are on par with most competitors. It is equipped with multiple airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, and tire pressure monitor. Lane departure warning is only used on top-of-the-line models. No active safety babysitters are provided.
Under the hood of the RX8 is a 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 220 hp at 5,500 rpm and 360 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm. The standard transmission is a 6-speed automatic with paddle shifters. While it has a roar that audiophiles might love, its power delivery is better suited to smooth highway cruising than passionate driving. Turbo lag is noticeable, especially when trying to accelerate quickly from a standstill, and the engine leans into higher gears, which can sometimes feel a bit sluggish for the driving experience.
We have an acceleration time of 9.2 seconds for the RX8 to 100 km/h, which is already "barely enough" for everyday driving. The fuel economy we tested was slightly above average at 12 l/100 km (8.3 km/l), mainly because we often increased the throttle.
The ride comfort is generally good, absorbing most of the bumps and unevenness of the road. However, when the speed is close to 120 km/h, wind noise and road noise become noticeable.
The steering feels a bit rubbery and a bit stiff even at low speeds, but it lacks the feedback that inspires confidence in more dynamic driving scenarios. That doesn't mean you should push the RX8 hard when cornering.
The RX8's handling isn't too bad for a vehicle of its size. The body roll is very noticeable but well controlled, and thanks to the 255-wide tires, this SUV offers a pretty good grip. The brakes are also good. It's not designed for aggressive driving, but it keeps you calm enough to concentrate on your work.
The RX8 comes with all-wheel drive from the mid-range model. It has a ground clearance of 202mm, which is similar to its crossover rivals, and the approach/departure angles are also decent. It's not really an off-road vehicle, but it can handle basic gravel and some soft sand if you have desert driving experience. Hill descent control and rear differential lock are only available on the top-of-the-line model.
The MG RX8 comes at a time when the Chinese car boom in the Middle East is just beginning, with the inflationary after-effects of the pandemic pushing new car prices sky-high. Given the current competitive landscape, with traditionally popular Japanese models rising in price while wages are not, the RX8 will appeal to those who prioritize space and comfort over cutting-edge performance and technology. It's an SUV that excels in many areas, but not necessarily in any of them, making it a well-rounded option for buyers on a budget who can only opt for small-sized models.
| Year of introduction of the current model: 2020 Body Style: 5-door station wagon Motor: 2.0L 220 hp inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine / 360 Nm Gearbox: 6-speed automatic Set up: Rear-wheel drive four-wheel drive Suspension: Front: Independence After: Independence | Brake: Front wheels: Disc Rear wheels: disc curb weight: 2180 kg Length: 4923 mm Wheelbase: 2850 mm Top speed: 180 km/h Test acceleration 0-100 km/h: 9.2 seconds. Test Fuel Economy Observations: 12.0 l/100 km |