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We haven’t seen an all-electric roadster since the Tesla Roadster was axed (they sold just over 2,400 models in its five-year production run). However, when MG announced it was building an electric sportscar called the Cyberster back in 2021, it caught the attention of enthusiasts with a promise to recapture some of the MG heritage it lost when it relaunched in Australia with a slew of affordable SUVs.
That dream has been realised, and the MG Cyberster is now available to order in Australia, priced from AUD$115,000 plus on-road costs. This makes it significantly more expensive than first anticipated, but cheaper than other roadsters like the BMW Z4 M40i (AU$139,800) and Chevrolet Corvette 3LT Convertible ($205,000).
Sportscars like the Mustang GT Convertible V8 ($86,752) and Mazda MX-5 RF GT RS ($56,140) remain significantly cheaper, and it begs the question of just how many people are asking for an all-electric roadster. Giles Belcher, Chief Commercial Officer, MG Motor Australia, said, “With our first shipment of Cybersters arriving in Australia, I’m pleased to say that already 30% of these are sold for customer pre-orders.” This equates to 50 customer deposits before the price was even announced.
Still, we wouldn’t be surprised if many would-be customers are sitting there, waiting to pounce on any enormous price cuts should the demand for the Cyberster be weaker than expected.
Last month, MG cut the price of the base-model MG 4 by $8262 to $10,425, which made it the cheapest EV in Australia at $30,990 drive-away price until 31 October 2024. That surely isn’t inspiring much confidence in buyers who might be willing to ignore MG’s no-frills reputation and spend $120k on a Cyberster.
RELATED: MG 4 XPower Review: Face-Melting Performance Bargain.
We’ve come to recognise the brand for its aggressive pricing, high level of specification, and value, so many assumed this new model would be no different. However, MG has launched the Cyberster at a Euro-challenging price of AUD$115,000 plus on-road costs. That said, on paper, it promises to deliver performance and technology to rival that of any brand from Europe.
“The all-new MG Cyberster presents uncompromising levels of power and performance, while also continuing our development as a leader in the electric vehicle space here in Australia,” said MG Motor Australia and New Zealand CEO Peter Ciao. “Crafted with precision from the ground up, this car is not only a tribute to MG’s storied heritage but also a clear statement that we are unwavering in our pursuit of leadership and innovation in Australia’s automotive landscape.”
“The incredible value the Cyberster delivers will amaze car lovers. Priced at $115,000 (MSRP) plus on-road costs, Australian drivers will be blown away when they get behind the wheel. We’re proud to launch what is sure to become MG’s next iconic model.”
MG Motor Australia will only bring the dual-motor MG Cyberster GT variant to Aussie shores for now, which makes it a compelling choice for wealthier buyers who might be looking for an alternative to performance electric sedans like the BMW i4 M50, Hyundai IONIQ 5 N, and Tesla Model 3 Performance.
It’s also significantly cheaper than the next most expensive electric roadster, the Maserati GranCabrio Folgore, which costs more than half a million dollars.
Like models in the UK, Australian-delivered MG Cybersters will have 375kW of power, 725Nm of torque, and a 0 to 100 km/h time of 3.2 seconds. This is even faster than the brand’s MG 4 XPOWER, which accelerates from 0 to 100km/h in 3.8 seconds and matches cars like the $275,000 Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, which we have tested at 3.2 seconds.
The MG Cyberster has a 77kWh battery with a claimed range of up to 443km WLTP. This battery can be charged from 10-80 per cent in 40 minutes at up to up to 144kW.
Size-wise, the MG Cyberster measures 4,535mm long and 1,913mm wide, which makes it roughly the same size as a BMW 2-series Coupe. To give you an idea of how that compares in size, we’ve listed the dimensions of other popular roadsters and convertibles below:
- 1974 MG B Roadster: 3,886 mm, 1,524 mm
- 2024 Mazda MX-5: 3,915 mm, 1,735mm
- 2024 BMW Z4: 4,324 mm, 1,864 mm
- 2024 Mustang Convertible: 4,811 mm, 1,916 mm
Design-wise, the electrically-operated Lamborghini-like scissor doors remain alongside the power-folding soft-top roof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and Brembo front brakes.
Your Cyberster can be ordered in five colours: English White Standard, Sterling Silver Metallic, Camden Grey Metallic, Diamond Red Metallic, and Royal Yellow Premium.
Inside, there’s a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, two 7.0-inch touchscreens, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, satellite navigation, FM and digital DAB radio, power-adjustable heated seats, an eight-speaker Bose stereo, dual-zone climate control, and advanced safety systems.
“Whether you have a passion for the classic MG Roadsters of years past, love EV motoring today, or admire the beautiful design of the Cyberster, you’ll be excited to get behind the wheel and feel the comfort, power and exhilaration this car delivers,” said Giles Belcher, Chief Commercial Officer, MG Motor Australia.
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