MG Marvel R electric SUV unveiled for European markets

This is the MG Marvel R, a new fully electric SUV being launched by the Chinese-owned brand's European arm in May 2021. It'll join the 5 and ZS electric models, and the HS plug-in hybrid, in markets on the continent, but as MG Motor UK is a separate operation, the Marvel R is not expected to be offered for sale here.

A rival for the likes of the Volkswagen ID.4 and Skoda Enyaq iV, the Marvel R is 4,674mm long, 1,919mm wide and 1,618mm tall, while a 2,80mm wheelbase promises generous interior space. Inside, it's packed with technology, including a 19.4-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital dial panel.

It has three electric motors and four-wheel drive, for a maximum power output of 284bhp, peak torque of 665Nm, a 0-62mph time of 4.9 seconds and a top speed limited to 124mph. A cheaper rear-drive version with two motors will also be available.

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A 249-mile driving range on a charge is promised, along with 11kW wallbox charging speed and rapid DC charging capability to fill up to 80% capacity from a public charging point in around 30 minutes. The Marvel R also has 'Vehicle to Load' (V2L) capability, which means it can itself be used to charge something else – for example an air pump, electric scooter, a laptop or even another electric car.

On the practicality front, the Marvel R is rated to tow a 750kg trailer and has a boot volume of 357 litres. With the rear seats folded down, that expands to 1,396 litres. The rear-drive version also offers 150 litres of luggage space under the bonnet.