Car shoppers are being advised to avoid a popular compact car produced by the Chinese-owned brand MG due to a significant safety flaw uncovered during testing. Euro NCAP, an organization focused on crash safety, identified a critical issue with the MG 3, prompting them to suggest exploring other options. The consumer group Which? has also issued a warning against purchasing this model.
Priced starting at £17,245, the MG 3 hatchback, available in both petrol and full hybrid versions, hit the market in February 2024. By the end of March 2025, over 9,000 vehicles of this model had been registered in the UK.
During testing, Euro NCAP discovered a critical safety failure with the MG 3, specifically during a rigorous frontal offset test. This test involves crashing the vehicle at an angle into an obstacle at a speed of 62mph, revealing a malfunction in the right-hand seat adjuster of the driver’s seat, causing it to twist during impact.
While Euro NCAP awarded the MG 3 four out of five stars based on its performance in other areas of the crash test, they expressed concern about the seat latching mechanism failure. Dr. Aled Williams from Euro NCAP emphasized the importance of this safety feature and recommended consumers consider safer alternatives.
MG has pledged to make improvements to the driver’s seat latching mechanism and airbag starting in August and October, respectively. However, these changes will not apply to vehicles already in customers’ possession.
As the Chinese car industry expands rapidly, Euro NCAP Secretary General Dr. Michiel van Ratingen emphasized the necessity for car manufacturers to maintain rigorous safety standards to ensure consumer protection. MG, now fully owned by SAIC Motor Corporation, has seen a rise in sales in the UK, surpassing other prominent brands.
MG responded to the concerns raised by Euro NCAP, stating they are actively investigating the issue and collaborating with authorities to address the specific seat mechanism problem. They assured customers that they value the feedback from Euro NCAP and are committed to resolving the issue promptly.