Review MG 6 GT hatchback

"Far from perfect, but the MG6 offers drivers sharp handling and a good value price-tag" As MG's first new model under Chinese owners, the 6 has plenty to prove. Thankfully, the handling is agile and there's plenty on offer for keen drivers. It's just a shame that the interior quality isn't quite up to that offered by rivals and there's only one engine to choose from. With the introduction of the 1.9-litre diesel in 2012 the 6 will become a much more attractive all-round proposition. Drive4.3 /5 Sharp handling and punchy turbo engine As of 2011 there's only one engine available in the MG6 line-up – a 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine that puts out 158bhp. A 1.9-litre turbodiesel is expected in the future though. For now the petrol engine is smooth and launches the MG from 0-62mph time in 8.4 seconds. At high revs the unit can get a bit noisy though. In the corners, the 6 performs well, changing direction quickly with very little body roll. The steering is direct and nicely weighted. Comfort4.1 /5 Ride is firm but not necessarily bad, engine noise could be reduced Engineers have tried to strike a fine balance between comfort and handling, but its fair to say the 6 could do with being slightly less stiff. That's not to say the ride is bad but drivers may begin to wish for a softer set-up over long distances. Wind and road noise are generally well contained – not class-leading, but not far off either. Engine noise at motorway speeds could have been lessened if the 6 was fitted with a sixth gear, but drivers will have to make do without. Reliability4.0 /5 Three-year warranty should give peace of mind It's hard to say at the moment how reliable the MG 6 will be, but the firm are offering a three-year/ 60,000 mile warranty on their vehicles to ease customer's minds. MG haven’t yet released results of an NCAP crash safety test, but in the Chinese version of the test – which is admittedly less stringent – it received a full five stars. With ABS, ESP along with side, front and passenger airbags it's likely to get the same result over here too. Practicality4.6 /5 Cavernous boot is perfect for carrying large loads The MG's boot is huge, boasting a 458 litre load space. Rivals in this sector – like the Vauxhall Astra for example – generally have around 350 litres of space. Interior space is good for passengers too, although people seating in the rear may find head-room limited by the slanting roof. It's worth mentioning that the quality of materials found in the cabin is good, but rivals like the Golf and Astra are slightly ahead in this department. Value for money4.2 /5 Basic models are good value for money, top levels are well equipped Prices start at around the £15,000 mark and at that price point its very competitive with its rivals. The most basic trim level is ‘S’ and that includes all-round electric windows, air-conditioning and alloy wheels. One level up is ‘SE’ which adds sat-nav, cruise control and rear parking sensors. Go for top-spec ‘TSE’ models and leather upholstery is includes, along with a rear parking camera. Running costs3.6 /5 No efficient diesel engine is available at the moment A turbocharged petrol engine isn’t great for keeping running costs low and the evidence is in the MG6's official economy figures. CO2 emissions stand at 184g/km, while the official mpg figure is 35.6. Better on cost is the low 13/14 insurance rating (out of 50) and the high levels of standard equipment.