Following a series of revealing teasers, SAIC has finally introduced the all-new MG7. The stylish fastback is positioned at the top of the MG range in China, coming with turbocharged petrol engines. It is also the first member of the Black Label Series that is focused on upmarket styling and sportiness.

The MG7 is the spiritual successor of the first-gen model (2007-2013), which was an updated version of the Rover 75 (1998-2005). The new generation has nothing to do with its predecessor, since MG designers opted for a more aerodynamic five-door bodystyle instead of the traditional four-door sedan.

Overall, the model looks quite aggressive, thanks to its muscular body. The front-wheel drive platform is evident from the proportions, but the low-slung silhouette, the sleek coupe-style roofline, the frameless windows, the large alloy wheels, and the sculpted body panes contribute to the upmarket looks. The front end is characterized by the sharp LED headlights and the large stylized opening on the front bumper flanked by sporty intakes, similar to the MG Cyberster concept.

The rear end is probably the most attractive part of the MG7, thanks to the pronounced rear fenders, the full-width LED taillights, the heavily inclined rear windscreen, the integrated ducktail spoiler, and the quad exhaust pipes. There is also an active rear wing with a three-stage deployment similar to the Porsche Panamera. In terms of footprint, the MG7 measures 4,884 mm (192.3 inches) long, 1,889 mm (74.4 inches) wide, and 1,447 mm (57 inches) tall. For a good measure, this positions it right in between the Audi A5 Sportback and the A7 Sportback.

Inside the five-seater cabin, we find a typical free-standing digital cockpit that measures 33 inches and integrates the instrument cluster and the infotainment touchscreen. The dashboard looks quite modern yet unoriginal, with ambient lighting and fancy textures placing it closer to the premium segment. Other features include the high-mounted center tunnel, the panoramic sunroof, and the sporty seats with integrated headrests.

At launch, the MG7 is available in two different ICE-powered versions, with plug-in hybrid options rumored to follow next year. The entry-level 300 VTGI is fitted with a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine producing 183 hp (136 kW / 185 PS) and 300 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front axle through a seven-speed DCT automatic gearbox. Those who want more performance should opt for the pictured 405 VTGI Trophy, coming with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 254 hp (189 kW / 257 PS) and 405 Nm of torque. The more potent motor is exclusively mated to a nine-speed ZF automatic gearbox, again sending power to the front axle. The vehicle is also equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential and an electronically controlled suspension.

It is not clear if MG plans on exporting the MG7 to other markets, but chances are its ICE-only versions will remain a China-only affair, since Europe and North America are mainly focused on electrification. The model will be locally produced by SAIC MG. Prices will be announced closer to the market launch which is expected before the end of the year.

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