The MG Cyberster is a bold entry into the roadster segment, marking the brand’s first fully electric sports car. This modern roadster pays homage to the brand’s storied past while embracing the future with a sleek, high-tech design. Once known for lightweight, affordable British roadsters, MG—now under Chinese ownership of SAIC—has set its sights on the future with this ambitious EV.
At first glance, the Cyberster looks like something from a concept car showcase rather than a production vehicle. With its dramatic scissor doors, aggressive stance, and high-tech interior, it begs the question—does it have the driving dynamics to match its flashy looks, or is it just another style-over-substance EV? Let’s find out.
Striking Looks That Demand Attention
The Cyberster’s design is both futuristic and nostalgic, blending classic MG roadster cues with a grand tourer’s proportions. It’s noticeably larger than the BMW Z4, with a wheelbase of 2,690 mm, putting it closer in size to a Mercedes-Benz SL. The elongated hood, sculpted bodywork, and subtle aerodynamic elements give it an undeniably premium appearance. A special 100-year anniversary badge on the side skirts commemorates MG’s centennial, reinforcing the blend of history and innovation.
Available in a variety of striking colors—including Dynamic Red, New English White, Camden Grey, Cosmic Silver, and the eye-catching Inca Yellow—the Cyberster ensures you stand out on the road. But the real show-stopper? The butterfly doors. These doors, which look straight out of a sci-fi movie, don’t just grab attention; they also have built-in sensors to prevent dings in tight parking spaces.
The fully automated soft top folds down in just 10 seconds, even while driving at speeds up to 50 km/h, allowing you to enjoy an open-air experience with minimal fuss. At the rear, the full-LED taillights incorporate a unique arrow-like pattern—a design choice that may divide opinions, but one that undoubtedly adds character. The large 20-inch alloy wheels, wrapped in grippy Pirelli P Zero Elect XL tires, complete the look, reinforcing the car’s sporty and high-performance ambitions.
A Premium, Driver-Focused Interior
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an ultra-modern cabin bathed in red leather and soft-touch materials. While the all-red theme might not be for everyone, it certainly adds a sense of drama and exclusivity to the interior. The seats offer a great balance of comfort and support, making long drives surprisingly pleasant for a sports car.
The driver-centric cockpit features a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, flanked by two 7-inch auxiliary screens, all powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8155 chip and enhanced with Unreal Engine 4.0 graphics. The interface is sleek, responsive, and intuitive. Storage is also practical for a roadster, with door pockets, center console compartments, two cupholders, a glove box, and space behind the seats for small bags. The trunk space, at 249 liters, is significantly more generous than a Mazda Miata’s, making it a practical choice for two-pronged weekend getaways.
Tech-Savvy and Safe
Tech lovers will appreciate the Cyberster’s impressive infotainment setup. The 10.25-inch central touchscreen comes equipped with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring seamless smartphone connectivity. A premium Bose 8-speaker audio system provides crisp, immersive sound, making top-down drives even more enjoyable. While the car lacks a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports ensure your devices stay powered on the go.
In terms of safety, the Cyberster is well-equipped with essential features like multiple airbags, ABS, electronic stability control, and traction control. Advanced driver-assist systems include a 360-degree camera, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Sensors throughout the car enhance safety, from parking aids to collision avoidance systems, making it a tech-heavy yet secure ride.
Electrifying Performance with a Few Quirks
Under the hood—figuratively speaking—the Cyberster packs a dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup, powered by a 77 kWh lithium-ion battery. This configuration delivers a robust 536 horsepower and 725 Nm of torque, allowing for blistering acceleration. Launch control propels the car from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.1 seconds, an exhilarating feat for an open-top EV. Despite the Cyberster’s weight, it remains impressively quick, though artificial engine sounds (both traditional and sci-fi-inspired) feel a bit gimmicky.
Braking is handled by fully vented discs with Brembo 4-pot calipers at the front, offering strong, confident stopping power. The fly-by-wire steering system is precise and responsive, making cornering effortless. However, the suspension tuning leans towards comfort rather than razor-sharp handling. The independent double-wishbone front and multi-link rear setup provide a smooth, grand tourer-like ride, but for those seeking a razor-edged sports car experience, a firmer suspension would have been welcome.
Fun to Drive, With Some Trade-Offs
In city driving, the Cyberster feels manageable, offering good visibility and easy maneuverability. On highways, it shines as a comfortable cruiser, absorbing road imperfections with ease. But on winding roads, its weight becomes more apparent. While it remains fun to drive, it lacks the razor-sharp agility of lighter sports cars, meaning it’s better suited for spirited grand touring rather than hardcore track days.
Efficiency-wise, the Cyberster boasts an impressive range of up to 504 km on a full charge. In real-world conditions, a 90% charge realistically offers around 350 km of range (depending on the driver). Fast-charging capabilities allow for a 10% to 80% charge in approximately 38 minutes when using a 150 kW DC charger.
An Exciting, Yet Pricey, Electric Roadster
With a price tag of around P4.5 million, the MG Cyberster is far from a budget-friendly sports car. However, compared to European grand tourers with similar specs, it remains relatively accessible. What you’re paying for is a stylish, high-tech, and exhilarating electric roadster that blends classic MG spirit with modern innovation.
The Cyberster isn’t just another EV appliance—it has personality, flair, and a genuine sporty soul. Whether you’re cruising with the top down or launching from a stoplight, it delivers a driving experience that’s equal parts fun and futuristic. If you’re looking for an open-top EV that turns heads and delivers thrills, the MG Cyberster is well worth considering.
