Review of the MG Cyberster:
A Vibrant Electric Roadster with Charm and Drawbacks The MG Cyberster, which combines the brand's legendary open-top driving heritage with cutting-edge electric vehicle (EV) technology, represents MG's victorious comeback to the sports car market. This two-seater convertible roadster, which was introduced in 2024 to commemorate MG's centennial, is a dramatic contrast to the brand's most recent lineup of affordable hatchbacks and SUVs. The Cyberster seeks to rival high-end competitors like the BMW Z4 with its scissor doors, streamlined styling, and powerful electric drivetrain. However, does it provide enough driving excitement and usefulness to warrant the £55,000–£60,000 price tag? Using information from a variety of sources, this review examines the Cyberster's functionality, performance, design, and drawbacks in order to present a thorough evaluation.
First Impressions and Design
The MG Cyberster turns heads. With insectoid headlights, a sleek shark-nose front, and arrow-shaped taillights connected by a full-width lightbar, its exterior design eschews retro styling in favor of a futuristic look. Although some reviews point out that they slow down entry and exit, the supercar-inspired powered scissor doors are a theatrical touch that attracts crowds. With a low profile made possible by a slim 110mm battery pack, the Cyberster is more akin to a grand tourer than a sporty sports car, and it is more than 0.5 meters longer than a Mazda MX-5.The interior of the cabin is contemporary and high-tech, with a triple-screen cockpit that includes two 7-inch screens on either side of a 10.25-inch central display. The high seating position—caused by the battery placement—leave taller drivers feeling perched rather than nestled, and those over six feet have limited headroom. However, alcantara racing-style seats and a faux leather steering wheel give the vehicle a sporty feel.Despite being aesthetically pleasing, the infotainment system is a drawback.Its awkward interface, sluggish reaction times, and poor ergonomics—the steering wheel frequently obscures the navigation screen—are frequently criticized by reviews. Although MG has promised to fix these problems, the current configuration seems dated for a car that costs between £55,000 and £60,000. In comparison to Chinese-market versions, the MG iSMART app is likewise disappointing due to its limited functionality and sluggish performance.
Driving Experience and Performance
There are two versions of the Cyberster: the dual-motor, all-wheel-drive GT (503bhp, 0-62mph in 3.2 seconds) and the rear-wheel-drive Trophy (335bhp, 0-62mph in 5.0 seconds). With a 77kWh battery, both models have a WLTP range of 316 miles for the Trophy and 276 miles for the GT, though actual ranges are typically closer to 250 miles. With its lightning-fast acceleration, the GT can outpace competitors like the BMW Z4 M40i and even the Porsche 718 Boxster in a straight line. The Cyberster's driving characteristics, however, are more suited for grand touring than for extreme sports cars. It lacks the sharpness of a Porsche or Alpine A110, but its suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth ride that absorbs bumps well. Numbars weigh between 1,885 and 1,985 kg for the steering.The Cyberster provides enjoyable moments in spite of these drawbacks. Although its chassis isn't as communicative as that of conventional sports cars, the rear-wheel-drive Trophy can produce controlled slides and entertaining burnouts when the electronic stability program (ESP) is off. The near-silent operation improves the open-top experience by allowing drivers to hear birdsong or rustling leaves—a novel sensation for a convertible—and the electric powertrain's instant torque offers addictive straight-line speed. When raised, the fabric roof provides good insulation and runs smoothly at up to 28 mph.
Ownership and Pragmatics
The Cyberster lacks practicality, but it's not completely unrealistic either. The 249-liter boot can accommodate soft luggage for a weekend trip or a weekly shop, but its versatility is limited by its high boot floor and absence of a frunk. Although the cabin has a center cubby and room behind the seats, it can only accommodate two people, so most buyers consider it a second car. Although it lags behind some EV competitors, charging at up to 150kW enables a 10-80% charge in 38 minutes. It takes roughly twelve hours to fully charge a 7kW home charger. Given MG's dismal performance in the 2024 What Car? Reliability Survey, the brand's seven-year, 80,000-mile warranty offers comfort. However, the cost of servicing is surprisingly high.
Advantages and disadvantages
Style and performance value are two areas where the Cyberster shines. It is a strong substitute for more expensive competitors due to its striking appearance, scissor doors, and affordable price. With little wind buffeting at highway speeds, the convertible experience is elegant and the electric drivetrain provides effortless speed. However, it is hindered by the high driving position, poor infotainment, and low driving engagement. It may disappoint fans hoping for MGB-like agility because it is more of a grand tourer than a sports car. Although it has a distinct market position due to the lack of a direct electric roadster competitor (until the Porsche Boxster EV debuts in 2025), it finds it difficult to compete with competitors that use combustion engines.
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