Used MG MG3 for sale near Inverness

CarGurus expert rating: 3 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.2 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 22.6%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 4.0 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 850
Average Price: Around £12,500

MG3 (2013-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Nimble handling	Stiff and uncomfortable ride
Affordably priced	The interior feels cheap
Reasonably practical	Surprisingly expensive servicing

Quick Summary

The MG3 is a budget supermini from the now Chinese-owned MG brand, competing with cars like the Dacia Sandero and Suzuki Swift. While it lacks the heritage of classic MGs, it offers a surprisingly fun and sporty driving edge. Practicality is reasonable for its class, with decent headroom and legroom for passengers and an adequate boot. However, the low purchase price is evident in the cabin, which features low-rent plastics and a clunky infotainment system, even on the improved models facelifted in 2018.

The driving experience feels dated due to its old-fashioned 1.5-litre non-turbo petrol engine, which is lethargic and noisy. The ride is also firm and unsettled, making it an uncomfortable companion on rough roads and long motorway journeys. On the plus side, that firm suspension contributes to nimble and engaging handling. Running costs are a mixed bag; fuel economy of around 40mpg trails rivals, and servicing can be expensive. A timing chain helps with long-term maintenance, but weak resale values mean it's not a strong long-term investment.

Best for: Buyers on a strict budget who want a new car with a long warranty, and those who prioritise nimble handling over comfort and refinement.

Not ideal for: Those who value a comfortable ride, a premium-feeling interior, a refined engine, or strong resale values.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the MG3 if: You are on a strict budget, want a new car with a long warranty, and value fun, nimble handling over ride comfort.

Consider alternatives if: You prioritise a comfortable ride, interior quality, engine refinement, or strong resale values.

Competitive Position: The MG3 is a contender on price alone, offering fun handling and decent practicality for very little money. However, its low cost is reflected in its cheap interior, unrefined engine, and harsh ride. While it has its merits for the most budget-focused buyers, rivals like the Suzuki Swift and Kia Rio offer a much more complete, comfortable, and refined package for not much more money.

Read our full MG MG3 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from February 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.