MG Cyberster Review: Electric Roadster Performance & Value Tested
MG Cyberster: Electric Thrills Meet Heritage Styling
Considering a $115k electric MG? You're not alone. After testing this surprise contender during its Australian launch, I discovered a roadster that blends jaw-dropping acceleration with nostalgic design—but with significant trade-offs. The Cyberster marks MG's first true sports car since 2011, packing 375kW dual motors and scissor doors into a drop-top package. But does this electric reboot honor the brand's racing pedigree? After pushing it through coastal bends and urban streets, I'll break down where it shines and where rivals still dominate.
Technical Specifications and Engineering Breakdown
Performance Credentials and Battery Tech
The Cyberster's spec sheet commands respect: dual motors generate 375kW (250kW rear, 150kW front) for 3.2-second 0-100km/h sprints. Its 77kWh lithium battery delivers a claimed 443km range, though our real-world testing showed 20.5kWh/100km consumption during spirited driving. Unlike MG's cheaper models, engineers prioritized rear-biased power delivery to mimic traditional sports car dynamics. Charging peaks at 144kW DC—enabling 10-80% top-ups in 40 minutes.
Key Performance Comparison:
| Model | 0-100km/h | Power | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MG Cyberster | 3.2s | 375kW | $115,000+ |
| Porsche Boxster GTS | 4.3s | 294kW | $160,000+ |
| Tesla Model 3 Performance | 3.1s | 377kW | $85,000 |
Chassis and Suspension Analysis
Brembo brakes and staggered 20-inch Pirelli P Zero tires (245mm front/275mm rear) hint at serious intent. The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension provide competent cornering, though weight distribution challenges emerge. At 1,985kg, the Cyberster carries 465kg more than a Mazda MX-5. This heft manifests in understeer during hard corner exits—a limitation of its dual-motor packaging. While adaptive dampers offer Comfort/Sport/Super Sport modes, the rear axle can feel unsettled over sharp bumps.
Design and Practicality Assessment
Retro Styling with Modern Flair
MG's designers nailed classic roadster proportions: long wheelbase, short overhangs, and muscular haunches. The fabric roof retracts in 15 seconds at speeds up to 50km/h. However, details polarize. The front bumper's "grinning" intake clashes with its aggressive intent, while Union Jack-inspired tail lights appear gimmicky up close. The scissor doors deliver drama but operate slowly—expect to wait 5+ seconds after pressing the button.
Cabin Experience and Storage
Inside, the driver-focused cockpit features three screens: a 10.25-inch digital cluster flanked by 7-inch displays. Materials elevate beyond MG's economy models, with Nappa leather steering wheels, Alcantara seats, and padded surfaces. Practicality surprises include:
- 249L shallow trunk (similar to a Mazda 2)
- Behind-seat storage for small bags
- Pop-out cup holders and deep door pockets
Notably absent: front trunk storage common to EVs. The climate control interface frustrates passengers, requiring reach-around access.
Driving Dynamics and Ownership Experience
Silent Speed Versus Sensory Engagement
Acceleration is brutally linear—pinning occupants back in Super Sport mode. Yet the silence creates cognitive dissonance. Traditionalists will miss engine drama, though the Bose stereo attempts synthetic augmentation. Steering lacks MX-5-level feedback but suits the car's character; its deliberate weighting prevents nervousness at high speeds. Crucially, the rear-drive bias reduces torque steer issues plaguing MG's cheaper EVs.
Daily Usability and Value Proposition
Around town, Comfort mode softens throttle response and damping for relaxed cruising. Road noise intrudes more than premium rivals, a trade-off for the fabric roof. At $115,000+, it costs twice as much as MG's next-most-expensive model. Yet compared to European alternatives, it undercuts them by $45k+ while matching performance. The warranty includes 7 years/unlimited km coverage, easing long-term ownership concerns.
Market Position and Future Implications
Disrupting the Sports Car Hierarchy
The Cyberster isn't a Porsche-beater. Its handling can't match mid-engined balance, and interior plastics fall short of German rivals. However, it offers unmatched EV performance per dollar in the roadster segment. This positions MG to attract new buyers—those prioritizing straight-line thrills over track precision. Industry analysts note its potential to expand the electric sports car market beyond Tesla's sedan dominance.
Charging Infrastructure Considerations
Prospective owners should audit their charging access. While 443km range suffices for weekend drives, Australia's sparse DC fast-charging network complicates road trips. MG includes a 11kW AC home charger, but rural buyers face limitations. Our recommendation: pair it with a Tesla-to-CCS adapter for maximum network flexibility.
Verdict and Alternatives
The Cyberster succeeds as a stylish, accelerative statement—not a purist's tool. Its scissor doors and retro design guarantee attention, while the powertrain delivers supercar-beating thrust. But compromises exist: fussy details, weight-induced understeer, and silent operation dilute engagement.
Top 3 Test Takeaways:
- Prioritize test drives in Super Sport mode to experience its acceleration
- Inspect trunk depth with your typical luggage
- Compare insurance quotes early—high repair costs are likely
Competitive Alternatives:
- Porsche Boxster (used): Superior handling for similar money
- Tesla Model 3 Performance: Faster, cheaper, but sedan-only
- BMW Z4: Sharper dynamics with turbocharged soundtrack
"Would you sacrifice engine noise for 3.2-second acceleration? Share your dealbreaker in the comments."
For enthusiasts seeking drama beyond speed, rivals still dominate. But as a tech-forward grand tourer, the Cyberster makes a compelling case—if you embrace its electric identity.
