Toyota Yaris vs. MG3: video, information, test and prices

Although more and more small models are disappearing because everything new keeps growing (in fact, the A segment hardly exists anymore and the B segment utility vehicles are gradually inheriting its role), the Toyota Yaris continues to enjoy enviable health.

Without going any further, it is the second best-selling model of Toyota, which in turn is the best selling brand in our country; and if we also count the deliveries of the Yaris Cross variant, it would be far ahead of the Corolla and would even become the top 1 in the entire Spanish market, but the Japanese manufacturer prefers to divide the ranges.

Utility and hybrid, two concepts that come together to achieve success

Then, What is the secret of the Yaris? Well, without a doubt, hybrid technology, which is practically essential when it comes to guaranteeing users peace of mind when travelling through large cities.

And we have two concepts that fit perfectly in the Yaris: on the one hand, that Eco label and the efficient Toyota hybrid system that reduces both emissions and consumption, and on the other the compact dimensions that the Asian model enjoys, which makes it easier for us to move like a fish in water through urban centers.

Until now, much of the blame for this success was due to the fact that it had hardly found any rivals since it launched its hybrid version in 2012. To be clear, until four days ago it had none. Clio, i20, Suzuki Swift and Dacia Sandero have since got their act together with different options classified as Eco, but those that were not more expensive were less powerful and less sophisticated.

The MG3 Hybrid puts the Toyota Yaris on the ropes… or does it?

What happened now? The Toyota Yaris has sprouted a coconut. It's called MG3 Hybrid and promises to give Aichi a lot of headaches.

We are going to compare the virtues and defects of both models that are positioned as one of the best alternatives for urban customers. However, abusing your trust, we will first ask you to Those of you who are not subscribed to the channel, please subscribe in a moment: it doesn't take long, it's free and you're giving us a helping hand... Now, let's get down to business!

Design, which one do you prefer?

Starting as always with the analysis of the bodywork, the first thing we have to say is that the MG is already gaining in something... At least, a priori. Its length reaches 4,11 meters long, while the Japanese stays at 3,94 and This has its pros and cons.

While the Toyota will make maneuvering in narrow streets or parking lots even easier, the Chinese one is supposed to be due to this increase in length will offer more interior habitability and more boot capacity. However, when it comes down to it, the MG only has one centimetre more wheelbase (2,57) and offers - watch out! - 241 litres to the Yaris's 270.

The height is nailed in both (1,50) and is noticeably wider the MG, which is close to one meter and 80.

GR details are always welcome

Putting the focus now on the design, and making it clear that here Everyone will have their preferencesI must confess that I like the Yaris much more than the MG in any of its trim levels, but if we add the GR Sport accents… it looks great. However, the price won't be as good. We'll talk about this at the end.

The fact is that, as a summary, I will tell you that the Yaris has acquired in recent times Some more notes on the 280 hp GR, such as the shape of the headlights or certain aspects of the rear, but be careful because the MG also aims to give a certain sporty sensation, especially in its front end with that sharp front end that emulates, like in a Cupra or a Lexus, the famous shark nose.

That said, in the Yaris you are going to have a Much greater range of customization with optional elements and paints than in the MG, although it will also cost you more. For example, the Yaris has wheels ranging from 15 to 18 inches and two-tone paint options with a contrasting roof; in the MG this option does not exist and the wheels will be, depending on the finish, 15 or 16 inches.

Better rear seats in the Chinese

We go inland and here, at first, there are not many differences. Both are utilitarian and therefore we are not going to find luxuries. Even so, the materials are correct, with hard plastics that are visible but that give a sufficiently good image, correct adjustments, compact…

Even in the arrangement of the elements We found many similarities: two screens for digital instrumentation and infotainment, which are better in size and response in the Toyota, but otherwise practically the same space, same physical buttons for the climate control and for the most basic actions (they are also somewhat clearer in the Toyota).

In addition, for small cars, we have enough storage spaces: center console, right side of the dashboard, door panels and glove box in the armrest. In this regard, Chinese offers a little more functionality.

As for ergonomics, there are very few complaints. Personally, I still think that the Yaris has a slightly elevated driving position, and I am not entirely convinced by the MG. the shape of the flattened steering wheel, but well, these are very subjective details that may possibly change or disintegrate depending on the user.

The rear seats have adequate room for two average-sized adults (even for three if they do not travel too many kilometres until fatigue sets in...), although There is quite a bit more space in the MG3.

Differences in the engines and the hybrid part

Before we get going to analyze the behavior of both, it is convenient to talk about the engines that are available.

The Yaris is sold with a gasoline engine and C label, which is the entry option, and 125 HP to later go on to provide Two hybrid alternatives which are undoubtedly the queens of the range.

On the one hand 120 and on the other 130 HP, the differences are going to be minimal both in terms of performance and consumption, so, if the economic factor is a priority, the best thing to do is to go for the 120. Now, you should know that, if you want the sportiest look, This GR Sport trim is only associated with the most powerful and therefore the most expensive…

As we always say, it will be the result of a balance between what we want and what we can spend.

In the case of the MG, it only has the hybrid version that we are testing. with a whopping 194 hpAs we will see now, it consumes a little more (not too much) and stands out from its main rival with its much higher performance, at least as far as acceleration is concerned: 0 to 100 in 8 seconds (1,2 seconds faster). The top speed is 170 km/h compared to the Yaris's 175 km/h.

At the wheel…

During the video we will explain in great detail how both models behave dynamically and what are the main differences between their mechanics, but it should be noted that this will not be a determining factor for those who are going to use it routinely in the city, because both cars are sufficiently comfortable in these circumstances and very efficient: both are around 4,5-5 l/100 km real in the combined cycle.

As we have seen throughout the video, the decision to go for one or the other will depend on small details, because the truth is that Overall they are quite similar and very practical in urban and interurban centers both.

Toyota Yaris Hybrid and MG3 Hybrid prices

In my opinion, one important aspect that will always have an influence is the price. And here the newcomer takes advantage. It is true that the most affordable Yaris, the one with the C label, is available for around 18-19.000 euros from the configurator, but if we stick to the tried and tested and most successful, i.e. the hybrids: The MG starts at 20.740 euros, while the Toyota is around 4.000 euros more expensive. This difference will remain in the higher-end versions, which reach almost 26.000 euros for the Yaris and 22.000 for the Chinese model.

Leave us a comment on the video which one you prefer. You know that we read you... and Don't forget to subscribe to our channel!