MG RX8 - All you need to know

MG Motor recently launched its first-ever seven-seater SUV in the Middle East, badged as the MG RX8. The British automaker has entered an unfamiliar segment and also the market where big-built cars are immensely popular. Surely, it’s going to shake up the existing automotive market in the region. 

Priced at $21,850 (AED 80,255) for the base variant, the launch of the RX8 is certainly a stepping stone to MG’s resurgence in this part of the world. With enormous space, robust body structure and luxurious cabin features, the RX8 looks one heck of a vehicle to own. In case you are unaware of the features and capabilities, the RX8 is blessed with, go on to read every little detail of the SUV before you hit the showroom. 

Exterior

The RX8 comes with the largest wheelbase (2850mm) in its segment, which is something that gives it an edge over others. The front features a dual-slot bonnet, chrome grille with bold slats, matrix-styled fog lamps garnished in chrome, LED headlamps with DRLs and a silver lower lip. The prominent character lines, boxed wheel arches with 20-inch alloys, roof rails and sidestep make up for its commanding road presence. The rear section gets LED tail lamps and twin chrome exhausts. 

Interior

The cabin is plush and technically-advanced with premium accents and the finest of materials used. The company calls it a theatre-like cockpit and it certainly looks like one. Even the third-row occupants get an uninterrupted view. There is premium leather upholstery for a high-class feel along with soft-touch, chrome and wood-grain trims. 

On the comfort front, the RX8 stands tall with the largest third-row space in the segment. The third-row occupants can get the benefit from the 884mm of legroom. For a relaxed experience, the RX8 comes with modular rear seating that allows passengers to adjust seats from different combinations for utmost comfort. 

The rear passengers get the advantage of a separate air conditioner with climate control while the front occupants get a dual-zone climate control AC tested to work perfectly in regions of extreme heat like the Middle East.  

Storage

Storage is one of the important things to consider when buying an SUV. The new RX8 features a total of 37 intelligent storage compartments that not only helps in keeping the cabin free of clutter but eases the stress of taking necessities along on a trip. The RX8 features an extended luggage space of 2,178 litres which can easily equip up to 9 standard suitcases. 

Performance

The MG RX8 gets a 2.0-litre turbo engine under the hood powered by the Net Blue Technology that’s capable of churning out 223 PS of power and 360 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Not just that, the RX8 comes with six different 4x4 driving modes, namely Auto, Snow, Off-Road, Sport, 4L and 2H. The driver can switch at will for the most rewarding experience as per the conditions. Moreover, there is a 4x4 Torque on Demand drive system on the range-topping model that can change the torque in just 0.1 seconds. The base trim gets a 4x2 rear-wheel-drive system.

Designed for tough terrains and extreme weather conditions, the RX8 is built on the truck chassis known as body-on-frame chassis. No matter how the roads are or how bad the weather is, the RX8 won’t disappoint you. It comes with a wading depth of 800 mm and features a ground clearance of 202 mm.

Features

The MG RX8 specs include wireless phone charging, a 10-inch touchscreen with Apple Carplay and Android Auto support, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, push-button start, keyless entry/exit, rear parking camera, panoramic sunroof and front and rear parking sensors. Some advanced features that can be found on the range-topping model are the multi-adjustable front driver and passenger seat ventilation, an electronic tailgate and a rain sensor.

Safety

Keeping everyone’s safety in mind, the MG has left no stone unturned to equip the RX8 with the best safety features. Standard ones include airbags (front, side and curtain, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and active rollover protection. On the range-topping model, you get a lane departure warning system feature as an add-on.

Colours

There are six exterior colour choices for you to choose from, including black, brown, grey, blue, pearl white and universal white. 

On the inside, you get three attractive colour schemes.

Pricing

MG RX8 price marked at $21,850 (AED 80,255) for the base model and $25,700 (AED 94,396) for the top model.

Also read: MG motors enter Thai pickup market with powerful Extender