The decline in available city cars in Spain has become a clear consequence of the shift to electrification. Many manufacturers have exited the segment, leaving buyers with limited options. Of those that remain, the MG 3 and Seat Ibiza stand out for their balance of price and features, making them relevant choices for anyone seeking practical transportation under €20,000.
The MG 3 is the most compact model from the brand owned by SAIC. It measures 4,110 mm in length, 1,795 mm in width, 1,500 mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,570 mm. The Seat Ibiza, now in its updated fifth generation, is slightly shorter at 4,070 mm long, 1,780 mm wide, 1,445 mm high, and with a wheelbase of 2,565 mm. The differences in size are minor, but the MG 3 is slightly larger in every dimension, which may affect the sense of space inside.
Trunk capacity
Trunk capacity rarely becomes a decisive factor for city cars, but for those planning trips out of town, it matters. The MG 3 offers 293 liters, though exact figures for maximum capacity with the seats folded are not disclosed. The Seat Ibiza beats this, with a trunk that holds 355 liters, and up to 1,165 liters with the rear seats folded down. For family travel or transporting large items, this can be a significant advantage.
Engines and transmissions
The main difference between the models lies in their engine lineup. The MG 3 is available with a 1.5-liter petrol engine producing 115 hp and a five-speed manual gearbox. Additionally, there is a hybrid version (HEV) with 194 hp, an automatic transmission, and an ECO environmental badge. The Seat Ibiza currently only offers petrol engines: a naturally aspirated 1.0-liter (80 hp, manual), a turbocharged 1.0 TSI (115 hp, six-speed manual), and a 1.5 TSI (150 hp, DSG). A hybrid version will be introduced later, but for now, it’s not available. This means the MG 3 stands out for its variety and modern engine options.
Features and comfort
The base MG 3 Standard trim includes electric mirrors, climate control, a digital instrument cluster, a multimedia system with navigation, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay support, 15-inch alloy wheels, lane keeping assist, tire pressure sensors, emergency braking, a rearview camera, and a range of other features that enhance comfort and safety. The Seat Ibiza in the Ibiza + version offers LED headlights, fog and cornering lights, electric windows, cruise control, multifunction steering wheel, tinted windows, a multimedia system with smartphone integration, and 15-inch wheels. However, in terms of the number and variety of features, the MG 3 clearly outpaces its rival.
Pricing and value
The MG 3 with a petrol engine starts at €14,740, while the hybrid version is priced from €18,090, including all discounts. The base Seat Ibiza costs at least €15,390, with the 115 hp engine version starting at €19,290. The most powerful option (150 hp) is priced at no less than €23,142. As a result, the MG 3 is cheaper at entry and offers a hybrid for about the same price as a mid-range Ibiza. This makes it more attractive for buyers looking to save money without sacrificing features.
Practical aspects
Comparing both cars, the MG 3 is slightly larger but has less trunk space. The Seat Ibiza offers better cargo capacity, but lags behind in modern technology and hybrid options. In terms of features and pricing, the MG 3 stands out, particularly for those who appreciate additional options and the choice of a hybrid. However, for those prioritizing maximum boot space and a time-tested design, the Seat Ibiza remains a solid choice.
The MG 3 is a city car produced by the Chinese company SAIC. It is aimed at the European market and stands out for its affordable price, modern features, and availability of a hybrid version. The Seat Ibiza is one of Spain’s most popular hatchbacks, produced since 1984 and known for its reliability and practicality. Both models are among the few in the B-segment still available for under €20,000 in Spain.
