The new MG CyberX is like a mini Land Cruiser with an LED strip and retro headlights – and yes, it's all-electric! Surprise!
What do you get when you cross a Ferrari Testarossa, a Toyota Land Cruiser and… an electric future – or rather, the MG CyberX? No, this is not the beginning of a joke, but the introduction of the MG CyberX – an SUV that is so retro that it has pop-up headlights, and so futuristic that part of the battery forms its chassis. It's time to meet the electric crossover that, in the hands of the designer of the Bugatti Veyron, becomes something more than just another toy for urban hipsters.
MG CyberX – the electric samurai among SUVs
MG, which operates under the umbrella of Chinese giant SAIC, has revealed the CyberX at the Shanghai Motor Show – a concept that’s not really a concept anymore. It’s a near-finished product that will be part of their new “Cyber” series, along with the Cyberster sports roadster.
Built on the SAIC E3 platform, designed exclusively for electric vehicles, the CyberX promises lightness and rigidity thanks to so-called “cell-to-body” technology. This means that the battery is not just a box under the floor, but a supporting part of the vehicle – less weight, more space and better stability.
The CyberX measures 4.3 metres (169.3 inches) in length, placing it at the upper end of the European sub-compact SUV segment. Although it shares the length with the MG ZS and ES5, its boxy silhouette, short overhangs and pronounced fenders give it a more adventurous character.
Retro pop-up headlights and Bugatti designer
The design is by none other than Jozef Kabaň, who has designed numerous VW, Škoda and BMW models in addition to the Bugatti Veyron. With its massive fenders and pop-up headlights, the CyberX clearly shows that MG is not afraid to take risks – and above all, that it is not afraid of nostalgic inspirations. The lights are a tribute to the legendary Ferrari Testarossa, but are installed above a modern LED strip that stretches across the entire front of the vehicle.
What is happening inside (for now)?
While the interior remains a closely guarded secret, MG is rumored to be working with Chinese tech giant Oppo to develop an advanced digital dashboard. It is said to feature a new generation Zebra 3.0 infotainment system and a Horizon Robotics J6 chip, which will enable advanced voice control and basic autonomous functions. The current prototype at the show was more of a show car than a working vehicle, meaning there is still more to come.
When, where and for how much?
MG has yet to announce a price or launch date, but sources in China suggest the CyberX will be available in series production within the next two years. Europe and Australia are expected to be among the first markets outside of Asia where the SUV will hit the market.
Conclusion: between fantasy and reality
The MG CyberX isn't just another electric SUV. It's a nod to the 80s with a technical assault from the future. With a design that grabs you at first glance and a potentially advanced architecture, the CyberX is aimed at younger, urban adventurers with a taste for something different. The question that remains is: will it be as affordable as its MG predecessors? If MG keeps its affordable price tag, the CyberX will definitely hit the mark. But first we need to see if the production version will keep those gorgeous pop-up lights - because let's be honest, we all really want a mini Land Cruiser with flashing lights.
