In a surprising twist that showcases the rapid advancements in electric vehicle technology, the MG4 EV XPower, a family-oriented electric hatchback, has displayed remarkable performance capabilities by taking on and even outpacing legendary supercars in a recent drag race, as demonstrated by a video from Carwow.
With an output of 435 horsepower (325 kW / 441 PS) and a substantial 600 Nm (440 lb-ft) of torque from its dual electric motors, the MG4 EV XPower, crafted by the Chinese automaker MG, stands as a testament to the affordability and accessibility of high-performance electric vehicles. With a price tag of £36,495 (approximately $46,000 based on current exchange rates), this electric hot hatch positions itself in the same price range as well-regarded counterparts like the Honda Civic Type R and Toyota GR Corolla.
In a departure from the norm, Carwow's host Mat Watson orchestrated a unique competition by pitting the MG4 EV XPower against heavyweight contenders—a Nissan GT-R and a Lamborghini Gallardo—in a drag race and brake test, adding a layer of intrigue to the electric hatch's mettle.
See also: MG4 XPower is coming with 429bhp and 239-Mile Range, Achieving 0-62mph in 3.8 Seconds
The Nissan GT-R, a storied supercar that once held dominion as one of the most commanding vehicles in its segment, boasts a twin-turbo V6 engine that delivers 480 horsepower (358 kW / 487 PS) and an impressive 588 Nm (434 lb-ft) of torque. A venerated name in the world of drag racing, the GT-R faced an unexpected challenge from the upstart MG4 XPower.
The MG4 XPower made a remarkable first impression, swiftly surpassing the GT-R and even the 520 horsepower (433 kW / 588 PS) Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder in the initial drag races. However, the GT-R's launch control mechanism proved its worth during subsequent rounds, allowing it to eke out a victory in the standing quarter-mile race, albeit by a narrow margin. The Lamborghini, hindered by a potentially temperamental gearbox, trailed behind despite its noteworthy power.
The plot took a new direction in the rolling drag races, where the MG4 EV XPower's top speed was limited to 124 mph (200 km/h). In a half-mile rolling drag scenario, both the Nissan GT-R and the Lamborghini Gallardo exhibited their superior capabilities, overtaking the MG with an accelerated pace.
See also: Everything You should know about MG4 Electric specifications
While the MG4 EV XPower demonstrated its prowess on the drag strip, it saved its final surprise for the braking test. Despite being the heaviest contender in the lineup, weighing in at a substantial 1,800 kg (3,968 lbs), the electric hatch exhibited remarkable stopping power, halting from 62 mph (100 km/h) in a mere 111 feet (33.9 meters). This impressive feat placed the MG4 ahead of both the Nissan GT-R and the Lamborghini Gallardo in terms of braking performance.
The captivating showdown between the MG4 EV XPower and these iconic supercars not only underscores the evolving landscape of electric vehicles but also highlights the growing potential for budget-friendly EVs to rival their high-performance counterparts, setting a new precedent for the future of automotive competition.
