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The dwindling supply of convertibles is a cause for concern, especially for roadster enthusiasts. The emergence of electric propulsion appears to be dealing a final blow to this declining category. One standout model that challenges this trend by offering both an open-top experience and electric power is the MG Cyberster. We took this thrilling open-air vehicle for a few exhilarating laps around the track.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of MG. Though the once distinctly British automaker now operates under the Chinese Saic Group, the current leadership seems more attuned than ever to the brand’s legacy. The MG Cyberster exemplifies this commitment, being the pioneer in blending classic roadster sensations with an electric drive system. At 4.54 meters long, the open-top MG provides a snug interior space. It’s necessary to break away from the conventional notion that modern electric roadsters are compact, lightweight machines zipping through narrow mountain roads. The Cyberster, as a trailblazer in this new class, deviates from this stereotype. The substantial battery pack situated in the undercarriage not only hinders a low seating position close to the ground but also rules out a pint-sized, agile two-seater capable of maneuvering like a Mazda MX-5, BMW Z4, or Porsche 718 Boxster.
The Cyberster’s design is remarkable whether its top is up or down. Anyone casually opening the scissor doors will instantly attract attention long before the roadster accelerates into the distance. Buyers have the option of selecting between a rear-wheel-drive model generating a robust 250 kW / 340 PS / 475 Nm, and an all-wheel-drive variant with an impressive 375 kW / 510 PS / 720 Nm – power figures that were previously unheard of in this category. If choosing the open-top MG Cyberster, it’s advisable to opt for the top-tier model for the initial trial, as with a weight of two tonnes, more power proves to be the better choice. So, we settle into the cozy yet spacious seat and kick off our drive.
Both the tires and the driver are not fully warmed up, so under the brilliant sunshine with the top down, we begin the first laps with eagerness but not excessive speed. The instant response from the dual electric motors on the front and rear axles, delivering over 700 Nm of torque, is impressive. The decision to go for the more potent version, equipped with 20-inch wheels instead of the standard 19-inch ones – 245s at the front and 275s at the rear, proves to be wise. The bends on the Goodwood circuit in southern Britain are not overly sharp, which the open MG thoroughly enjoys. The lateral support in the turns with generous, driveable curves could use some enhancement, yet the Cyberster is not meant to be a racing machine but rather a fun, open-top roadster that enhances longer journeys. The presence of a 77 kWh battery pack in the undercarriage ensures a low center of gravity but also adds several hundred kilograms to the roadster’s weight, a fact that even the potent 375 kW / 510 PS engine struggles to conceal entirely.
The Cyberster may be heavy, but the brakes offer strong grip, even under repeated use. The transition from regenerative braking to traditional disc braking is seamless. The fine-tuning of the electric power steering is less impressive, displaying slightly reduced precision compared to agile handlers like the Mazda MX-5 or Porsche Boxster. However, the Cyberster should not be underestimated in its sporting intentions even on the track. In fact, the acceleration out of the corners is truly exhilarating. The impressive but practically unnecessary 0-100 km/h sprint time of 3.2 seconds is skippable, and the top speed limited to 200 km/h by the top model is unlikely to cause disappointment among its occupants.
For speeds like these, nobody truly requires more than 500 PS, and being overtaken by modestly powered compact and mid-sized models on the highway, despite one’s sporting aspirations, might sting a bit for the sun-loving roadster enthusiast en route to the next scenic route.
Thankfully, the battery pack, featuring a usable capacity of 74 kWh, ensures that the Chinese open-top car only needs recharging after covering 440 kilometers. However, the charging process is as leisurely as cruising in the left lane of the highway, with a peak charging power of 144 kW – a figure deemed inadequate for a modern electric model equipped with 400-volt technology. Ideally, this should be increased to 180 or 200 kW, particularly by Chinese standards. The modular electric platform utilized by the MG Cyberster is identical to that of the MG4.
Internally, the MG Cyberster embodies a true sports roadster, offering well-contoured sports seats but relatively compact displays (two 7.0-inch and one 10.25-inch screen) for instrumentation, controls, and navigation. The fabric top operates electrically, opening and closing seamlessly. As the charming gift for its 100th anniversary eagerly returns to the track for more exhilarating laps after a brief pit stop, potential buyers can anticipate the Cyberster’s arrival in Germany post-summer, with prices commencing at approximately 56,000 euros for the rear-wheel-drive variant. This should prove more than adequate for the majority of customers.
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