Winner: MG4
The reinvention of the famous old MG brand took a step up with the launch of the MG4 hatchback. Not only does it get thoroughly modern looks and a spacious and well-appointed cabin, but it’s a serious bargain, too. Admittedly, prices have increased since the MG4 first arrived in Ireland, but a starting price of €30,995 (including all incentives) ensures that the electric hatch still represents great value for money. The cherry on the cake is that the MG4 actually drives with real enthusiasm, making it a joy to own. And it would appear that MG hasn’t given up on its sports-car roots, either, as there’s a 435hp MG4 XPower due for launch in the coming months.
Runners Up
Jeep Avenger
Sharing its underpinnings with lots of other models in the Stellantis group, the Avenger is Jeep’s first ever electric car and at a starting price just south of €36,000 it makes a compelling case for itself. The electric range of up to 400 kilometres is ample and it’s a well-equipped car for the money, but we suspect that most buyers will go for it because of its chunky design. And who could blame them?
BYD Atto 3
BYD didn’t exist in Ireland at the time of last year’s awards, so it’s quite an achievement for its first Irish model, the Atto 3 crossover, to be shortlisted in several categories. It’s unassuming on the outside, and it gets the job done with its 204hp electric motor, but the interior is full of interesting features and BYD Ireland has priced it from well under €40,000 to grab buyers’ attention. We’ll be seeing lots more from this Chinese brand in the coming years.
