The compact SUV, codenamed AS21 and set to be unveiled at next week’s Beijing motor show, is said to preview an upcoming production model to be introduced to the Chinese market in 2014.
Taking styling cues from the original MGB GT built between 1965 and 1980, the Icon is based on the same underpinnings as the Chinese market Roewe 350 and MG 5. The five-door Icon is similar in size to the Nissan Juke.
Power for MG’s first SUV is expected to come from an SAIC engineered and produced turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The engine, which produces 135bhp and 148lb ft, is also tipped to be offered on the MG 5 and the Roewe 350, the 5’s sister car.
Inside, the concept provides seating for four on individual bucket seats. The two rear seats can be folded into the floor to increase the load bay. No conventional B-pillars feature and the rear doors are conceptually similar to those on the Mazda RX8.
MG, which came under SAIC ownership following the company’s merging with Nanjing Automobile Corporation in 2007, currently produces and sells three different models, the MG 3, MG 5 and MG 6.
source: autocar
