Compare performance (194 HP vs 156 HP), boot space and price (15,400 £ vs 21,000 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – MG MG3 or Peugeot 208?
All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.
In the increasingly competitive world of compact hatchbacks, two models stand out: the MG MG3 and the Peugeot 208. Both vehicles offer a blend of style, performance, and practicality—but how do they stack up against each other? In this comparison, we will delve into their technical specifications, innovations, and overall driving experience to help you make an informed decision.
The MG MG3 showcases a modern approach to hatchback design. Its bold exterior features sharp lines and a sporty stance, making it visually appealing to younger demographics. The vehicle's dimensions measure 4113 mm in length, 1797 mm in width, and 1502 mm in height, which contribute to its agile feel on the road.
On the other hand, the Peugeot 208 exudes French flair with its sleek and sophisticated design. Slightly shorter at 4055 mm and narrower at 1745 mm, the 208 maintains a dynamic look with an aggressive front grille and distinctive LED daytime running lights. The design not only enhances aesthetics but also improves aerodynamics, a crucial factor for fuel efficiency.
The MG MG3 is powered by a full hybrid engine, delivering an impressive 194 HP and 143 kW, making it one of the more potent options in its class. It features a front-wheel-drive system and an automatic gearbox, allowing for smooth transitions while driving. With a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 8 seconds, the MG3 is quite spirited for a hatchback of its size, alongside a top speed of 170 km/h. The fuel consumption is rated at 4.4 L/100 km, with CO2 emissions at 100 g/km, positioning it as a relatively eco-friendly choice.
In contrast, the Peugeot 208 offers a range of powertrains, including petrol options and a fully electric variant. The petrol engines produce between 101 HP and 156 HP depending on the configuration. Notably, the 208 also features a mild-hybrid option for those looking to increase fuel efficiency. Performance-wise, it boasts a quicker acceleration from 0-100 km/h ranging from 8.3 to 10.9 seconds, depending on the engine choice. With a max fuel consumption of around 5.4 L/100 km, the Peugeot 208 remains efficient, especially with its electric variant presenting an electric range of up to 410 km.
Step inside the MG3 and you'll find a spacious cabin designed for comfort. With seating for five and a trunk capacity of 293 L, the MG3 makes it easy to carry passengers and their belongings. Additionally, MG has equipped the MG3 with a user-friendly infotainment system, enhancing the overall driving experience.
In comparison, the Peugeot 208 takes interior design to a new level with high-quality materials and advanced technology features. The compact hatchback provides more trunk capacity at 309 L and also includes a range of innovative tech such as a customizable digital instrument cluster and an advanced infotainment system compatible with smartphone integration. The 208 sets the bar high when it comes to driver comfort and high-tech features.
Both cars offer impressive handling, but the driving experience might differ due to their distinct engineering philosophies. The MG MG3's design offers a sportier drive, with responsive steering and a suspension setup that handles corners with ease. Its powertrain offers ample torque, making it a delight for enthusiastic drives.
Meanwhile, the Peugeot 208 is well-regarded for its ride quality and agility. With its sophisticated suspension system, the 208 absorbs road imperfections effectively, ensuring comfort on longer journeys. The slight edge in power-to-weight ratio with some engine options allows for greater acceleration when required, making it an all-rounder for both city commuting and longer drives.
In this head-to-head comparison, both the MG MG3 and Peugeot 208 have unique strengths. The MG3 appeals to those looking for a powerful and economical hatchback, while the Peugeot 208 excels in design, technology, and overall ride quality. Ultimately, the choice will depend on individual preferences, whether you prioritize power and practicality or refinement and innovation. Either way, it’s clear that both models are strong contenders in the compact hatchback segment.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
MG MG3 is visibly cheaper – starting at 15,400 £ , while the Peugeot 208 costs 21,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 5,562 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the MG MG3 uses 4.4 L/100km and is barely more efficient than the Peugeot 208 with 4.5 L/100km. The difference is about 0.1 L/100km.
Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.
When it comes to engine power, the MG MG3 offers slightly more power – delivering 194 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 38 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG MG3 is very slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 8 s, while the Peugeot 208 takes 8.3 s. That’s about 0.3 s quicker.
There’s also a difference in torque: the Peugeot 208 delivers substantially more torque with 270 Nm compared to 148 Nm. That’s about 122 Nm more.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, Peugeot 208 is marginally lighter – 1,165 kg compared to 1,237 kg. The difference is around 72 kg.
When it comes to payload, the MG MG3 carries barely more – 448 kg compared to 430 kg. That’s a difference of about 18 kg.
The Peugeot 208 is slightly ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The MG3 is a cheeky city hatch that pairs bold, youthful styling with sprightly handling for drivers who want personality on a budget. Its cabin is bright and cleverly packaged, offering sensible space and a fun-to-drive character that turns mundane commutes into something a bit more enjoyable.
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The Peugeot 208 feels like a city-savvy fox: compact, stylish and surprisingly grown-up, with a cabin that punches above its weight and enough personality to make daily commutes a little less boring. It’s a smart pick for buyers who want chic practicality without the showroom bluster — easy to park, thrifty to run and oddly fun when the road tightens up.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
15,400 - 21,400 £
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Price
21,000 - 35,200 £
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Consumption L/100km
4.4 - 6.1 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
4.5 - 5.1 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
14.1 - 15.4 kWh/100km
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
362 - 432 km
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Battery Capacity
-
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Battery Capacity
46 - 51 kWh
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co2
100 - 137 g/km
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co2
0 - 116 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
-
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Fuel tank capacity
44 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Body Type
Hatchback
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
-
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1,237 - 1,285 kg
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Curb weight
1,165 - 1,530 kg
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Trunk capacity
-
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Trunk capacity
309 - 352 L
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Length
-
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Length
4,055 mm
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Width
1,797 mm
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Width
1,745 mm
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Height
-
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Height
1,430 mm
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Max trunk capacity
-
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Max trunk capacity
1,118 - 1,163 L
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Payload
373 - 448 kg
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Payload
380 - 430 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid
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Engine Type
Electric, Petrol MHEV, Petrol
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
116 - 194 HP
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Power HP
101 - 156 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
8 - 10.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.3 - 10.9 s
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Max Speed
-
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Max Speed
150 - 200 km/h
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Torque
148 Nm
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Torque
205 - 270 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4
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Number of Cylinders
3
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Power kW
85 - 143 kW
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Power kW
74 - 115 kW
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Engine capacity
1,490 - 1,495 cm3
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Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2,025
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Model Year
2,023 - 2,026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
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CO2 Efficiency Class
A, C, D
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Brand
MG
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Brand
Peugeot
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España