MG7 sports sedan to get 2.0L turbo in PH?

Earlier at this year's Manila International Auto Show (MIAS), MG Philippines wowed the public with its massive booth. Not only did they show newly launched vehicles, but they also previewed several models that will eventually be arriving at MG showrooms in the future.

They already debuted the MG G50 Plus and the MG3 Hatchback a couple of weeks ago. However, there is one more vehicle that we wish MG Philippines launches in the not-so-distant future. That vehicle is the MG7, a sporty midsize fastback sedan that not only looks dashing but also packs a turbocharged engine under the hood.

At the time, the automaker did not release any exact specifications about the upcoming MG7 apart from the fact that it will be powered by a turbocharged inline-four. In other markets, the MG7 is available with either a 1.5-liter or a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo which gives it a power output between 188 PS and 261 PS.

Fast forward several months later, we have received new information about the possible specifications of the upcoming MG7. Based on a recent regulatory approval, MG Philippines was given the go-ahead to bring a passenger vehicle with a 1986cc engine which translates to a 2.0-liter unit. With a reference weight of around 1775 kg, this is quite a hefty vehicle.

After doing some research and cross-checking the numbers, it appears the MG7 for the Philippine market will get the 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four. In the PRC, the engine makes 261 PS at 5500 – 6000 rpm and a healthy 405 Nm of torque between 1750 – 3500 rpm. Power is then sent to the front wheels via a 9-speed automatic gearbox.

Size-wise, the MG7 measures 4884mm long, 1889mm wide, 1447mm tall, and has a 2778mm wheelbase. It also has a unique adaptive three-stage rear wing that automatically deploys at speeds of over 100 km/h. However, the driver can also deploy and retract it manually via a button inside the cabin. Other features worth mentioning about the upcoming MG7 are its fastback design, frameless door windows, a panoramic glass roof, and an electronic limited-slip differential.

There's no word yet from MG Philippines with regards to the arrival of the MG7. But given they have recently received regulatory approval for a new 2.0-liter engine, perhaps they are now in the final stages of debuting the sporty midsize fastback sedan. Here's to hoping we won't have to wait long.