FACT spent the day thoroughly inspecting the 2023 GT Turbo, a high-performance vehicle that has reignited our respect for the MG brand.

British automotive marque, MG, was founded almost a century ago, producing two-seater sports cars as far back as the 1920s. They soon expanded to develop both saloons and coupés with engines up to three litres in size.

The brand launched their very first SUV, The MG GS, less than a decade ago, in April of 2015 – an impressive vehicle that we got to experience soon after its release. We were also fortunate enough to put the MG RX8 through its paces in 2020. Last year we were handed the keys to the MG ZST, yet another offering we found to be most impressive.

This month, thanks to the team at Zayani Motors, FACT got its hands on the all-new MG GT Turbo.

Exterior Design

As soon as the 2023 MG GT came into view, we were taken by the modern, shark-hunting design of the front end. This coupé-like, four-door, fastback sedan, with its downward-pressing bonnet and sleek LED headlights fitted on either side of the ‘Digital Flame Grille’, looks like it’s demanding to be unleashed on the tarmac. This was a request we would soon be happy to fulfil.

Inspired by the classic two-door MGB sports car, the latest MG GT has been meticulously designed with aerodynamics in mind. This fact is made obvious through the flowing body lines that run the full length of the well-proportioned exterior; a feature that helps to bestow this sedan with the silhouette of a fastback. Additionally, the bold Nuclear Yellow paintwork of our test model, along with 17-inch tomahawk alloy wheels, intensified the sporty prowess of the car.

The broad stance of the visually pleasing exterior design is most evident at the back end, with the slightly upturned ducktail and 3D LED racetrack taillamps further enhancing the athletic nature of the GT Turbo.

Interior Design

From a shark-hunting exterior to a fighter jet-styled interior, the MG GT exudes plenty of power in its personality. Warmly welcomed by ergonomic bucket seats designed to provide optimum comfort and support, we had the perfect vantage point from which to view the internal setup as well as the road ahead.

Soft padded materials and a piano-theme-inspired dashboard add greatly to the aesthetically pleasing layout of the two-tone interior. The fighter jet quality of the cockpit is exhibited through the glossy gear knob and premium quality aluminium accents.

The rear seating of the MG GT has been equally well designed, offering a high level of comfort for up to three passengers. Enhancing the spacious feeling of the cabin is a wide sunroof that floods the car with natural light.

Infotainment & Technology

One of our favourite features of the all-new MG GT is the efficient and user-friendly infotainment system, accessed through a 10-inch, high-definition touchscreen. This impressive setup provides instant access to all audio and communication features, including smartphone connectivity with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

An advanced Air Purifying Management System filters out any and all pollen and dust, resulting in only the freshest and cleanest of air circulating throughout the cabin. This is a fantastic feature to have in both sandy regions and traffic congestion.

Power & Performance

The all-new MG GT is equipped with a highly efficient, fourcylinder, 1.5-litre turbocharged engine. Coupled with a DCT gearbox, this capable compact car delivers 173hp and 250Nm of torque. This enables the GT Turbo to accelerate from 0-100km/h in a respectable eight seconds and to achieve a top speed of 215km/h.

Featuring an XDS curve dynamic control system combined with an aerospace aluminium sports chassis, we found the MG GT to have exceptional handling stability, even around tighter bends. The high-performance abilities of the GT are complemented by its proficient braking system, ensuring the driver always feels in complete control of the vehicle.

Safety & Assistance

The experienced craftsmen at MG have kept the safety of you and your loved ones at the forefront of the GT’s design, including an array of driver assistance and safety features in the car’s setup. A high-density steel cage body featuring laser brazing technology is a prominent physical component, designed to keep all occupants safe in the event of a collision. Side chest airbags and ISOFIX anchor points are additional standard safety features.

An electronic stability control system has been included to maximise traction, whilst an MG Pilot Intelligent Driving Assistance System warns the driver of any potential danger and intervenes when necessary.

Further advanced safety and assistance features include a PDC rear reversing radar, a 360-degree view monitoring system, a Forward Collision Warning System, a Lane Departure Warning System, cruise control and an electric parking brake, amongst others. ✤

GO: CALL 1770 3703 FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO BOOK A TEST DRIVE OF YOUR OWN.