Birth of a legend
Few names in motoring history carry the same charm as MG, short for Morris Garages. Founded in 1924 by Cecil Kimber, MG began life in Oxford as a workshop producing sportier, stylish versions of Morris cars.
By the 1930s, MG had established itself as a pioneer of affordable sports motoring, winning acclaim for lightweight roadsters and competition cars that captured the spirit of open-air driving.
The post-war era was MG’s golden age. The MG TC introduced countless American GIs to the joys of British sports cars, paving the way for a strong export market.
By the 1950s, the MGA showcased a sleeker design, while the MGB, launched in 1962, became one of the most beloved sports cars ever built. With its simple engineering, charming looks, and everyday usability, the MGB defined what an affordable sports car could be.
However, MG’s fortunes began to decline in the late 1960s and 1970s. Having been absorbed into the British Motor Corporation (BMC) and later into British Leyland, MG lost much of its independence.
Mismanagement, quality control problems, and a lack of investment saw the brand’s reputation weaken. The closure of the Abingdon factory in 1980 was a symbolic low point.
MG made sporadic comebacks, including the MG Metro and the mid-engined MGF in the 1990s, but financial instability plagued its parent companies.
By the early 2000s, MG Rover was in serious financial trouble. Mounting debts, limited product development, and dwindling sales made survival impossible.
In 2005, MG Rover collapsed, forcing the MG brand to be put up for sale. The assets were eventually acquired by Nanjing Automobile Group, which later merged with SAIC Motor, China’s largest carmaker.
Why MG was sold to SAIC
The sale to SAIC was driven by necessity rather than choice. MG Rover lacked the resources to develop new models or compete with global rivals. SAIC, on the other hand, offered financial stability, advanced manufacturing capacity, and access to new markets. For MG, it was a lifeline: a chance to survive under the umbrella of a powerful automotive group with global ambitions.
What SAIC did after the acquisition
Since taking ownership, SAIC has transformed MG into a modern, international brand. While production shifted to China, design and engineering input remained in the UK, maintaining a link to MG’s heritage.
SAIC refocused the brand on practical hatchbacks and SUVs, positioning MG as an affordable alternative in competitive markets.
Most importantly, SAIC has steered MG into the electric vehicle (EV) era. Models like the MG ZS EV and the award-winning MG4 Electric have won praise for offering accessible, well-equipped EVs at prices below those of many rivals. This has propelled MG into a new wave of popularity across Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa.
MG in South Africa
South African drivers have embraced the modern MG lineup enthusiastically. Affordable pricing, stylish designs, and the availability of both petrol and electric models have made MG a strong competitor in the local market.
The MG ZS EV, in particular, has helped position MG as a serious option for South Africans exploring electric vehicles, while models like the MG 3 hatchback and MG HS SUV cater to families and first-time buyers.
SAIC’s investment has allowed MG to maintain brand relevance while combining affordability with modern technology, keeping the iconic octagon badge visible on local roads.
