MG presented two concepts at the Goodwood Festival of Speed
The winner of the “Car of the Year” competition, the Renault 5, and its rival, the Mini Cooper E, have proven that affordable electric cars can have a vibrant character. Now MG also wants to join this trend. The British brand, owned by a Chinese company, will bring two concept cars to the Goodwood Festival of Speed in 2026. One of them heralds the arrival of the MG2 model, which will compete with the Renault 5 and go on sale in 2027.
The MG Go! Concept — a tribute to the past
The concept car, named MG Go!, is a compact electric hatchback. Its design is inspired by a diverse collection of past MG models, including the MGB GT and the Group B rally car MG 6R4. Another, less well-known but notable model mentioned in MG’s press release is the ZR from the 2000s. This model was extremely popular among young drivers due to its fun handling, solid style, low insurance costs, and running costs. Undoubtedly, the brand hopes the MG2 will achieve the same success 25 years later.
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MG states that the goal was not to recreate the past, but to borrow elements from it to create something with emotional appeal today. So, while you can clearly see hints of the MGB GT in the face, created by the contour of the radiator grille and headlights, as well as in the shape of the C-pillar, and the bulging wings subtly hint at the 6R4, the overall appearance is very modern and extremely attractive.
Cyber Concept — a sporty flagship SUV
The second MG concept heading to Goodwood moves in almost the opposite direction. The Cyber Concept envisions a large electric sporty SUV at the flagship level, which is definitely not aimed at young, budget-conscious drivers.
Ferrari SUV vibes
By design, it is partly inspired by the record-breaking streamlined MG EX181 from the late 1950s, although, fortunately, it does not resemble a huge silver torpedo. Instead, the smooth, muscular Cyber Concept has a more than passing resemblance to the Ferrari Purosangue, while the rear lights may seem familiar to Hyundai Tucson owners.
While the Go! is ready to return to production in two years, the Cyber seems much further from the showroom, not even having an interior at this point. And even if it hits the streets, an MG representative told Autocar that it might not be offered in the UK.
MG
Thus, MG is making a bold bid for two different market segments. The Go! aims to win the hearts of young people by offering an affordable and emotionally charged electric car, while the Cyber targets the premium segment, showcasing the brand’s technological ambitions. The success of both models will depend on how successfully MG can blend its rich heritage with the demands of the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market. It will be particularly interesting to see how consumers perceive the design decisions that clearly reference classic models in the context of new technologies.