The MG GT II 1.5L (114 hp) iCVT is a compact sedan produced by SAIC Motor under the MG brand, beginning with the 2021 model year. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the GT II range, this variant aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency and affordability. It primarily targeted markets in Asia and select emerging economies, offering a modern sedan experience at a competitive price point. The GT II represents MG’s continued effort to re-establish itself as a significant player in the global automotive market, leveraging contemporary design and technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | GT |
| Generation | GT II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5L (114 Hp) iCVT |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.1 kg/Hp, 90.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm, 119 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 114 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4500 rpm (110.63 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15S4C |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1260 kg (2777.82 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 401 l (14.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l (11.89 US gal | 9.9 UK gal) |
| Length | 4675 mm (184.06 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Height | 1473 mm (57.99 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2680 mm (105.51 in.) |
| Front track | 1559 mm (61.38 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1563 mm (61.54 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm (5.71 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission iCVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The MG GT II 1.5L iCVT is powered by the 15S4C engine, a 1.498-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that improves fuel efficiency and power output by injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber. The engine produces 114 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 Nm (110.63 lb-ft) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), marketed by MG as “iCVT”. This transmission features eight simulated gear ratios, designed to provide a balance between smooth acceleration and fuel economy. The 15S4C engine is a naturally aspirated design, meaning it does not employ turbocharging or supercharging.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5L iCVT variant of the MG GT II delivers a comfortable, albeit not particularly sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 10 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 114.95 mph. The iCVT transmission prioritizes fuel efficiency, resulting in smooth, seamless gear changes. However, this can sometimes come at the expense of responsiveness, particularly during quick acceleration maneuvers. Compared to potential turbocharged variants (not widely available in all markets), the 1.5L feels less powerful, but offers a more linear power delivery. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. The steering is light and easy to use, making it well-suited for urban driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The MG GT II 1.5L iCVT typically comes standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Higher trim levels may add features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, a rearview camera, and automatic headlights. Interior upholstery is generally cloth, with options for leatherette in higher trims. Safety features typically include ABS, electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and airbags. The specific equipment levels varied depending on the market and optional packages selected.
Chassis & Braking
The MG GT II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of independent McPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a torsion beam setup. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The braking system features disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power for everyday driving. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The car rides on 16-inch wheels with tire size 205/55 R16.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG GT II 1.5L iCVT was generally well-received in its target markets as an affordable and practical sedan. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other sedans in its class, such as the Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, the MG GT II offered a more competitive price point, but lacked the established reputation for reliability and refinement. Within the GT II lineup, the 1.5L iCVT served as the entry-level option, appealing to budget-conscious buyers who prioritized fuel economy and comfort over performance.
Legacy
The MG GT II 1.5L iCVT represents a significant step in MG’s revival as a global automotive brand. While not a performance standout, the powertrain has proven to be reasonably reliable in real-world use. On the used car market, these models are often sought after for their affordability and fuel efficiency. The iCVT transmission, while not known for its durability in some applications, has generally performed adequately in this engine configuration. As MG continues to expand its product lineup and improve its brand image, the GT II 1.5L iCVT will likely be remembered as a key model in the company’s modern history.
