
The MG RX8 is a mid-size SUV that combines rugged styling, spacious interiors, and advanced features to cater to families and adventure enthusiasts. As part of MG Motor’s lineup, the RX8 aims to offer a premium driving experience at a competitive price point.
In this article, we’ll explore the specs, features, price, and review of the MG RX8 to help you understand why it’s a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment.
Overview of the MG RX8
The MG RX8 is a 7-seater SUV designed to provide a perfect blend of comfort, performance, and practicality. It’s built on a robust platform, making it suitable for both urban commutes and off-road adventures. With its bold design, feature-rich interiors, and powerful engine options, the RX8 appeals to buyers looking for a versatile and family-friendly SUV.
MG RX8 Specs: Performance and Engineering
Here’s a detailed look at the key specifications of the MG RX8:
- Engine Options:
The RX8 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine, which produces 222 horsepower and 360 Nm of torque. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive gear shifts. - Drivetrain:
The RX8 is available in both front-wheel-drive (FWD) and all-wheel-drive (AWD) configurations, providing flexibility for different driving conditions. - Performance:
- 0-100 km/h: 9.5 seconds
- Top Speed: 200 km/h
- Fuel Efficiency:
The RX8 delivers an average fuel efficiency of 10-12 km/l, depending on driving conditions and the drivetrain configuration. - Dimensions:
- Length: 4,923 mm
- Width: 1,924 mm
- Height: 1,817 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,850 mm
- Boot Space:
The RX8 offers 217 liters of boot space with all seats in place, which can be expanded to 1,398 liters by folding down the rear seats. - Suspension:
It features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a balance of comfort and handling. - Brakes:
The RX8 comes equipped with ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels and ABS with EBD for enhanced safety.
MG RX8 Price: Is It Affordable?
The MG RX8 is positioned as a premium mid-size SUV, and its pricing reflects its features and capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of its pricing:
- Starting Price: The base model starts at around ₹25 lakh (ex-showroom) in India, while the top-end AWD variant can go up to ₹30 lakh (ex-showroom).
- Trim Levels:
The RX8 is available in multiple trims, including Super, Smart, and Savvy, each offering a different set of features and customization options. - Value for Money:
Given its spacious interiors, advanced features, and powerful engine, the RX8 offers excellent value for money compared to rivals like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.
MG RX8 Features: Comfort and Technology
The MG RX8 is packed with features that enhance comfort, convenience, and safety. Here’s what you can expect:
- Exterior Features:
- Bold and muscular design with a large chrome grille and LED headlights
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Roof rails and skid plates for a rugged look
- Power-adjustable and foldable side mirrors
- Interior Features:
- Premium leather seats with heating and ventilation (front row)
- 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster
- Panoramic sunroof
- Automatic climate control with rear AC vents
- Safety Features:
- 6 airbags
- ABS with EBD
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
- Hill Descent Control and Hill Start Assist
- 360-degree camera system
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
MG RX8 Review: Driving Experience
The MG RX8 is designed to deliver a comfortable and capable driving experience. Here’s a detailed review of its performance:
- Engine Performance:
The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine provides strong acceleration and smooth power delivery, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The AWD variant, in particular, offers excellent traction and stability on challenging terrains. - Handling:
The RX8’s suspension setup offers a good balance between comfort and sportiness. It handles corners well and feels stable at high speeds. - Ride Quality:
The ride is comfortable, with the suspension absorbing bumps and potholes effectively. The multi-link rear suspension ensures a smooth ride for rear passengers. - NVH Levels:
The cabin is well-insulated, with minimal engine and road noise. The turbocharged engine is refined and quiet during normal driving conditions.
MG RX8 Ratings: What Do Experts and Users Say?
Here’s a summary of the ratings and feedback from experts and users:
- Performance: 4.4/5
The turbocharged engine and smooth transmission are highly praised, offering a fun and engaging driving experience. - Design and Build Quality: 4.5/5
The RX8’s bold design and premium build quality are major highlights, making it stand out in its segment. - Comfort: 4.6/5
The spacious interiors, comfortable seats, and feature-rich cabin make it a great choice for families. - Fuel Efficiency: 4.0/5
With a mileage of 10-12 km/l, the RX8 is reasonably fuel-efficient for a mid-size SUV. - Value for Money: 4.5/5
Given its competitive pricing and feature-rich offerings, the RX8 offers excellent value for money.
Pros and Cons of the MG RX8
Pros:
- Bold and rugged design
- Powerful and refined turbocharged engine
- Spacious and feature-rich interiors
- Excellent value for money
- Comfortable ride quality
Cons:
- Slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to rivals
- Limited brand recognition in some markets
- Third-row seating is best suited for children or short trips
Conclusion: Should You Buy the MG RX8?
The MG RX8 is a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size SUV that offers a mix of style, performance, and practicality. Its bold design, powerful engine, and feature-packed interiors make it a strong competitor to established players like the Toyota Fortuner and Ford Endeavour.
The RX8’s affordability and versatility further add to its appeal, making it a practical choice for families and adventure enthusiasts. While it may not have the brand recognition of some competitors, the RX8 more than makes up for it with its value-for-money proposition and impressive performance.
If you’re looking for a mid-size SUV that stands out from the crowd and delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience, the MG RX8 is definitely worth considering. It’s a car that proves MG Motor is a serious player in the global automotive market.