The MG GT II 1.5L Turbo (162 Hp) DCT is a compact sedan produced by the Chinese-owned British manufacturer MG Motor, beginning with the 2021 model year. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the GT II lineup, it aimed to provide a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and modern features for the increasingly competitive compact car segment, primarily targeting markets in Asia and select emerging economies. This variant represents MG’s attempt to modernize its brand image and appeal to a younger demographic with a turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | MG |
| Model | GT |
| Generation | GT II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5L Turbo (162 Hp) DCT |
| Start of production | 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.1 kg/Hp, 122.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm, 189.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 162 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 3000-4000 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 3000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 15S4G |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Engine systems | Start & Stop System |
| Kerb Weight | 1318 kg (2905.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 401 l (14.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4675 mm (184.06 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Height | 1480 mm (58.27 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 | 7 gears, automatic transmission DCT |
| 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 | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the MG GT II 1.5L Turbo DCT is the 15S4G engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is coupled with a single turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The engine’s architecture is relatively conventional, featuring a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The turbocharger provides increased air intake, allowing for a higher compression ratio and improved combustion efficiency. The dual-clutch transmission (DCT) is a seven-speed unit, offering quicker and smoother gear changes compared to a traditional automatic transmission. This DCT is crucial for maximizing the performance potential of the turbocharged engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 162 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.5L Turbo engine provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 8.1 seconds, and the car has a top speed of 133.59 mph. The DCT contributes to a responsive driving experience, with minimal torque interruption during gear changes. Compared to lower-powered versions of the GT II, this variant offers a noticeable improvement in acceleration and overall responsiveness. However, it doesn’t match the performance of potential future high-performance trims. The DCT’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and performance, with taller gears for highway cruising and shorter gears for quicker acceleration. The steering is light and precise, making the car easy to maneuver in urban environments.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5L Turbo DCT trim of the MG GT II typically includes standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and basic safety features like ABS and airbags. Higher trim levels add features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, automatic climate control, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Interior materials are generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on providing a comfortable and modern cabin environment. The dashboard layout is straightforward and user-friendly, with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The MG GT II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout with an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front and rear brakes are both disc brakes, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The chassis is designed to balance rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s overall stability and handling. The electric power steering system provides a light and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The MG GT II 1.5L Turbo DCT was generally well-received by automotive critics in its target markets. Reviewers praised its combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and features for the price. Fuel economy is rated at approximately 39.9 US mpg, which is competitive within its class. Compared to other trims in the GT II lineup, the 1.5L Turbo DCT offers a significant performance upgrade over the base engine options. However, it may not be as fuel-efficient as those lower-powered variants. Reliability reports are still emerging, but early indications suggest that the powertrain is generally reliable, although long-term durability remains to be seen.
Legacy
The MG GT II 1.5L Turbo DCT represents a significant step forward for the MG brand, demonstrating its commitment to producing modern and competitive vehicles. While its long-term reliability is still being assessed, the powertrain has proven to be reasonably durable in initial testing. In the used car market, this variant is likely to hold its value relatively well due to its combination of performance, features, and fuel efficiency. It serves as a key model in MG’s strategy to re-establish itself as a major player in the global automotive industry.
