Returning to the sportscar market where it gained so much success and loyalty in the past, MG Motor’s new Cyberster is an electric two-seater droptop, putting it in a league of its own. Plop the ‘Dynamic Red’ Cyberster onto the streets of Monte Carlo and it wouldn’t go unnoticed – it is a stunning looking machine and one that commands an audience wherever it goes. I’ve never had as many strangers ask me about a press car, mostly because of its signature scissor doors.
There are two versions of the Cyberster; the single-motor ‘Exclusive’ trim from €69,900 and the dual-motor, ‘GT’ trim from €75,500 (as tested here). The dual motor is the most powerful production model in MG’s 100-year history, with no less than 503 PS (375 kW) and 725 Nm of torque. The dual-motor, all-wheel-drive GT is capable of sprinting from 0- 100 km/h in 3.2 seconds.
Both versions share the same 77 kWh battery, with my press model returning around 400km from a full charge – which is loads for a car such as this. The quoted range for the single motor is 509km. DC fast charging times are pretty good, too. MG says a 10-80 per cent charge takes less than 40 minutes when using a 150 kW DC charger, which I found to be accurate. The Cyberster is supported by MG’s seven-year, 150,000km warranty.
Despite its looks and characteristics, the MG Cyberster isn’t the complete driver’s car. But I don’t think this is MG’s attempt at rivaling the likes of the Mazda MX-5 or BMZ Z4. In fact, I think it’s unfair to compare it to anything on today’s market. The Cyberster feels more like a grand tourer – a brief MG has pretty much nailed.
Away from the motorway and the Cyberster isn’t overly engaging to drive; it weighs just under two-tonnes and being electric, it has no gearbox for the driver to go through the motions. But being electric means it has less moving parts, making the Cyberster an ideal seasonal sportscar for those who aren’t as savvy when it comes to DIY car maintenance. Much of the 77 kWh battery is located below the driver, which eats away at having a low driving position (the passenger actually sits much lower).
In front of the driver is a wraparound cockpit featuring a 10.25-inch driver display and dual seven-inch auxiliary screens, which take a bit of getting used to. The interior also features heated leather-style sports seats, accented with Alcantara inserts. Apple Carplay and Android Auto require a cable to use, while there is no wireless phone charging pad – which isn’t good enough for the price tag. Boot space is much bigger than it looks, at 249-litres. I was able to comfortably fit a 20kg suitcase in it.
Overall, the MG Cyberster is a fantastic effort from the now Chinese-owned brand. At the time of writing, six Cybersters have found new homes across Ireland so far this year. That’s good going!
