We already knew that MG, that classic British sporting brand, now under Chinese ownership (isn't everything?) was going to make a return to Ireland, and we knew that it was going to do so with a primarily electric and plug-in hybrid range. What we didn't know, until now, was exactly where you could buy one.
Dealer line-up announced
Well, now we do - MG Motor Ireland has announced a line-up of six dealerships, locations in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Tipperary. As the brand puts it: "A number of the dealers are very recognisable names and have a long heritage within the motor industry in Ireland, so it is a statement of intent for the MG brand." Those dealers are Linders Finglas and Frank Keane MG in Dublin; Johnson & Perrott in Cork; Sheils in Limerick; Sheils in Galway; and Colm Hanly Motors in Tipperary.
Valued partners
Gerard Rice, Managing Director, MG Motor Ireland, said: "We are delighted to announce our MG Motor dealer network from launch and are thrilled to be working with such valued partners to deliver MG Motor sales and aftersales in the Irish market. We look forward to the growth and success of the brand by working closely with the dealers who will look after the electric vehicle desire of the customer as the MG Motor brand is re-born in Ireland."
Prices start from €28,995
Sales will kick off with the MG ZS electric compact crossover, which will have an official one-charge range of 263km, and a starting price of €28,995. Standard equipment for the Excite version will include the MG Pilot assistance system that includes adaptive cruise control with traffic jam assist, active emergency braking and intelligent high beam assist. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available through the eight-inch touchscreen display that also incorporates the in-car navigation system.
For €3,000 you can upgrade to the MG ZS Exclusive, which will include 'Leather Style' upholstery with heated front seats and a power adjustable driver's seat, as well as a panoramic sunroof.
MG's second model is the larger HS SUV, which comes as a plug-in hybrid with an official electric-only range of 52km. For €33,150, you'll get a power adjustable and heated driver's seat, rear cross traffic alert, 360-degree parking camera and a digital instrument panel, in addition to a 10.1-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system.
There will also be an MG 5 Sportwagon electric estate, with a 345km one-charge range, for which prices and details will be announced soon.