In a captivating revelation at the Chengdu Motor Show, MG has finally lifted the curtain on the technical prowess of its much-anticipated Cyberster roadster. The sleek electric sports car, first introduced as a concept in 2021, has garnered significant attention since its production version’s debut earlier this year at the esteemed Goodwood Festival of Speed.
At the heart of this two-seater dynamo lies a dynamic duo of electric motors, seamlessly delivering a formidable 536 horsepower and a robust 535 pound-feet of torque. This power propels the Cyberster from 0 to 62 mph in an exhilarating 3.2 seconds, instantly gratifying speed enthusiasts. Embodying modern eco-consciousness, a 77-kWh battery pack nestles within, promising a noteworthy range of 360 miles. However, this range is indicative of the China light-duty vehicle test cycle (CLTC), and it’s important to consider that the equivalent WLTP figure could present a slight decrease. If speculation veers towards a US-spec Cyberster scrutinized by the EPA, the projected range would likely undergo further adjustment.
While these details unveil a substantial portion of the Cyberster’s identity, there are still enigmatic facets that MG is guarding closely. A preliminary filing with China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) in April offered a glimpse into the roadster’s build, indicating a weight of 4,376 pounds. The car’s dimensions, measuring 178.5 inches in length, 75.31 inches in width, and 52.32 inches in height, encapsulate its road-hugging presence. The wheelbase stands at a well-balanced 105.9 inches, cultivating a poised stance that commands attention. However, it’s crucial to note that the open-top design with scissor doors distances it from a direct rivalry with the Mazda MX-5 Miata.
MG’s ambitions don’t halt here, as they’ve outlined plans to release a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) variant that boasts a slightly leaner profile. This derivative will be powered by a single motor, harnessing over 300 horsepower and drawing energy from a more compact 64-kWh battery. Despite this downsizing, the RWD Cyberster’s range remains commendable at 323 miles, in accordance with the CLTC standard.
Delving into the minutiae of the Cyberster, MG’s dedicated webpage for the Chinese market showcases a medley of impressive features. Brembo brakes with four-piston fixed calipers ensure efficient stopping power, complemented by a “highly rigid” rollbar for enhanced safety. The car’s fine-tuning bears the mark of Italian F1 engineer Marco Fainello, adding a touch of motorsport heritage to the roadster’s DNA. Inside the cabin, audiophiles will revel in the presence of Bose speakers, while tech enthusiasts will appreciate the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8155 chip fueling the infotainment system, bolstered by the prowess of Unreal Engine 4.0 graphics.
Curiously, pricing particulars remain shrouded in ambiguity. While the Cyberster is confirmed to grace the roads of China and the UK, MG’s global strategy remains veiled, leaving us to speculate on its broader availability. In the Middle Kingdom, whispers suggest a starting price range equivalent to $33,000, ascending to $37,000 for higher trim configurations. This alluring price point defies expectations for an electric sports car of such caliber. As for markets beyond, the veil of uncertainty suggests a probable uptick in price. The Cyberster’s impending journey beyond Chinese and British shores is anticipated with bated breath, promising to electrify the roadster segment worldwide.
