Sketches have been released showing the MG CS concept SUV set to debut at this week’s Shanghai auto show.
Two official drawings from the Chinese-owned British marque – identical to those leaked late last week – preview the brand’s first compact SUV production vehicle, aimed at tackling the competitive crossover segment.
Designed by a team led by MG’s global design director, Anthony Williams-Kenny, the MG CS concept showcases a vastly different design language to the retro-inspired MG Icon concept (pictured bottom) seen at the 2012 Beijing motor show.
Featuring headlights that refract light in different colours, a sporty profile and an aggressive interpretation of MG’s trademark octagonal front end, the MG CS shares similarities with the MG Zero concept – shown at the 2010 Beijing motor show – and resulting MG3 production car.
The Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC)-owned car maker says the MG CS concept is targeted at “young, fashion-conscious people” and will help expand the brand’s global reach.
While MG is yet to release any details on powertrains there is speculation that a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine will find its way under the compact SUV’s aggressively sculptured bonnet.
MG is due to open the doors of its new Australian showrooms in the coming weeks, the first based in Sydney. The 118kW/215Nm MG6 will be the first model initially available, offered in both sedan and hatch body styles, with the smaller MG3 expected to follow later in the year. The MG6 is 191mm longer and 72mm wider than a Mazda 3.
The Shanghai auto show opens its doors on April 20.
