MG 3’s four-star safety score hides “serious” seat flaw

MG has built a reputation for building cheap and cheerful cars, but in the latest round of Euro NCAP crash tests, the new MG 3 hatchback revealed a worrying flaw that could leave drivers at risk.

During a frontal crash test, engineers found that the driver’s seat latch mechanism failed. This caused the seat to twist mid-impact – something Euro NCAP says it has never seen before in more than 25 years of testing cars.

The twist put severe strain on the driver dummy’s right leg, resulting in a “poor” rating for lower leg protection. It also meant MG couldn’t prove how well the car would protect people of different sizes in various seating positions.

MG initially suggested the seat hadn’t been properly locked into place before testing. But Euro NCAP confirmed that its engineers had followed correct procedures.

Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.

What is MG doing to fix this?

MG plans to redesign the driver’s seat latch, with improvements already underway as of August 2025, and to upgrade the driver airbag from October 2025. However, these changes will not apply to cars already in customers’ hands, leaving existing owners potentially exposed.

Euro NCAP has reported the issue to the relevant authorities, who may consider a recall.

It has a four-star safety, but should you be concerned?

Despite the seat failure, the MG 3 still managed to earn a four-star rating overall, thanks to good scores in other areas such as crash avoidance and driver-assistance technology.

But Euro NCAP officials stressed that the seat issue is serious enough for buyers to think twice. “We recommend that consumers consider other cars over the MG 3,” said Dr Aled Williams, programme director at Euro NCAP.

A spokesperson at MG said: “Based upon a specific concern raised in the Euro NCAP test regarding a mechanism on the driver’s seat, which did not affect the overall safety rating achieved by MG3 Hybrid+, MG is pro-actively investigating this and working closely with the relevant authorities.

“With a technical appraisal underway, we are presently not in a position to add any more at this stage. We wish to reassure all customers that Euro NCAP’s feedback is valued and that MG is prioritising the matter and will naturally, be providing further updates.”

What does this mean for you?

The MG 3 has long been a budget-friendly choice for drivers seeking a small, practical car without going fully electric. Available in petrol and hybrid versions, it offers an alternative to the Renault Clio and Toyota Yaris, with low prices, long warranties, and a generous level of equipment.

Euro NCAP’s results do raise some red flags. On top of the seat latch problem, the driver’s head was found to hit the steering wheel because the airbag didn’t fully cushion the impact, which meant head protection was rated only as “adequate.”

China’s car industry has grown rapidly, with many new models now sold across Europe. But Euro NCAP says manufacturers must keep up with Europe’s strict safety expectations. “Consumers need to know the cars they buy are safe,” said Dr Michiel van Ratingen, secretary general of Euro NCAP.

Interestingly, Euro NCAP’s scoring system doesn’t currently allow for an overall rating to be reduced because of a single failed part. That’s why the MG 3 still walked away with four stars.

Euro NCAP now says it will review its rules to make sure unusual – but serious – failures are better reflected in future ratings.

You can compare the MG 3 against other cars using Euro NCAP’s website to find the safest model that fits your needs.

Car change? Carwow!

Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.

Click here to follow us on WhatsApp, where you can keep up-to-date with all the latest news, reviews, advice guides and videos.