MG RX8 features and specs

The SAIC Motor owned MG brand marked its UAE innings in 2011 and ever since, they have expanded their footprint with the launch of exciting products in every segment keeping in mind affordability which has drastically moved up their fortunes. After getting success with its recent design architecture and models such as the MG GS, ZS and the MG 6, they  are all set for the launch of their new flagship in the UAE, the RX8 which they find is extremely impertinent and something which was imminent as it's raining SUVs these days. The RX8 began life as a Roewe RX8 and is one of the contentions to the GAC GS8. While it borrows many design elements from the GS8, we expect better quality interiors and a strong build on the inside.

EXTERIOR

The MG RX8 is a simple looking machine with decided features as needed in an SUV which sits high off the ground. Upfront, one will find a large chrome grille making it a hooligan and enhancing its presence on the road. The simplistic headlamps seem to be well concealed in the grille and won’t be a miss. Below these, one will find two pairs of quad LEDs and it might seem a bit outrageous as you’re generally acquainted with fog lamps here but that is what genuinely works in its favor. To give it a more rugged appeal, MG has provided it with a body kit in the form of chrome inserts under the bumper.

The side profile starts with bold looking fenders to absorb some impact upon a collision and we expect it to make it to our shores with 19” diamond cut alloy wheels as evident on the Roewe RX8. The entire side profile is reminiscent of the current gen Toyota Land Cruiser with a high shoulder line and the muscular lines protruding at the back ending in the boot.

The thick headlamps have a slit midway to accommodate a large chrome grille and might remind you somewhat of the Mercedes Benz GLA. Also making its way is a chrome guard beneath the bumper for safety. As with the current trend, the RX8 comes equipped with roof rails and a shark fin antenna on the roof. The RX8 measures a shade under five meters in length at 4923 mm, 1930 mm in width and 1810 mm in height.

INTERIOR

Judging by images released online, the cabin seems to be well appointed. The instrument cluster is well segregated into three parts- The left one has analog dials for the speedometer while the right one houses in the tachometer both of which show the numbers inversely and might have divided opinions on that. The drive computer contains all the information necessary for the driver such as a TPMS, temperature status, service intervals, etc. There are absolutely no knobs or switches on the center console barring a switch to control the fan speed but instead a gigantic touchscreen infotainment system which allows access to the climate control, inbuilt navigation and a slew of other features.

Below the center console, is a Mercedes-Benz inspired cup holder to accommodate your mobile phone, coffee cups and other knick-knacks. For the rear passengers, it is all good news as there seems to be a plethora of legroom for everyone. There are rear A/C vents with individual climate control for both the rear occupants and a panoramic sunroof. 

On the feature front, the RX8 is believed to offer a terrain response system, a 360 degree camera, electronic parking brake, eco mode, auto hold function, traction control and 12V charging ports, memory seats and electronic tail gate.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE

As per variants launched in international markets, the RX8 receives a puny two liter four cylinder petrol engine churning out 224 hp and 360 Nm of torque and comes mated to a 6 speed automatic transmission sending power to the front wheels. Such figures should be adequate to maneuver the brute comfortably in and around town. We expect linear acceleration from the motor rather than a sudden surge of torque which would make it a potent highway cruiser and will do a bit of off-roading as well should you want some adventure with it. 

VERDICT

The MG RX8 being the brand’s flagship SUV comes with all the bells and whistles and is loaded with tech to the brim. Going against the likes of the GACGS8 and Haval H9, it can comes in as a scintillating package ticking all the boxes. We expect it to be priced under AED 100,000 for the base model to let it gain a competitive advantage. If marketed well, it has a good potential to sell in our region.