Since British Leyland ceased MGB imports in 1980, MG’s ownership changed frequently. Currently, under SAIC Motor, it offers family cars, with the Cyberster being a notable battery-powered roadster. Priced competitively, it delivers impressive performance, albeit with some refinements needed.
Since British Leyland ceased the importation of the MGB to the U.S. in 1980, MG has experienced more ownership changes than some of its models. Now under the stewardship of SAIC Motor in China, MG primarily focuses on family-oriented cars that stray far from its sporty heritage. The sole exception is the Chinese-manufactured, electric Cyberster, marking MG’s return to the two-seat roadster market since the MG-TF was phased out in 2011, thereby reconnecting with the brand’s postwar glory days.
With a base price of 54,995 pounds (approximately $71,300) in the U.K., the Cyberster competes directly with the Porsche 718 Boxster. We tested the high-end GT model, priced at 59,995 pounds ($77,800), which sits between the pricing for the Boxster and Boxster S. Unlike those Porsches, which can become quite costly with options, the Cyberster’s additional features revolve solely around paint choices and soft top colors, plus a generous seven-year warranty.
Our GT model features impressive specs, including dual motors, all-wheel drive, and a powerful 503 horsepower, moving its claimed 4,376 pounds. A substantial 74.4-kWh lithium-ion battery contributes significantly to this weight, supporting rapid charging at 144 kW and offering a range of 276 miles on the European WLTP combined cycle (roughly translating to about 230 miles by EPA standards). During our test, the GT achieved 2.5 miles per kWh over a distance of 198 miles, yielding a real-world range of 186 miles.
If a heavy Chinese electric vehicle seems unlikely to evoke excitement, the sleek design of the Cyberster aims to impress. With styling directed by SAIC Motor’s Carl Gotham, its lines echo the Jaguar F-type, Mazda MX-5 Miata, and perhaps even McLarens, particularly with its striking shark nose. Despite a rear end reminiscent of a maintenance truck’s warning arrows and eye-catching scissor doors, the car exudes a maturity that demands respect for this 178.5-inch roadster.
Inside, the Cyberster presents a visually appealing environment with quality touches on key components like the gear-selector panel, yet it lacks the material richness found in both the now-discontinued Jaguar and the still-available Boxster. While visually impressive, the infotainment system leaves much to be desired in terms of intuitiveness, featuring annoyances such as a navigation screen partially obstructed by the steering wheel and a backup camera awkwardly positioned on the far side of the dashboard, confusing it with a side mirror. Additionally, frequent warning chimes can become tiresome.
You sit elevated on firm “leather-style” seats that offer minimal under-thigh support. Taller drivers may need to push the seats back into the bulkhead. Lowering the fabric roof increases headroom restricted by the battery underneath, and the top can be stowed while driving at speeds up to 30 mph.
In terms of dynamic performance, the Cyberster offers a mixed experience. MG’s marketing highlights 18 months of development focusing on camber and road imperfections across Britain’s challenging terrain. But within 50 yards, initial positive impressions begin to fade. The low-speed ride is bumpy, and various creaks can be heard from the cabin. The steering also lacks a distinct feel while driving straight, giving the impression that this isn’t a particularly sporty vehicle.
Performance improves as the speed increases, accessible through three distinct powertrain modes (plus a customizable one): Comfort, Sport, and Super Sport, the latter activated by a red button on the steering wheel. All modes deliver impressive performance, but Super Sport is exhilarating, allowing the Cyberster to accelerate as quickly as a baseball flying out of a stadium.
Despite the thrilling responsiveness underfoot, throttle travel, brake pedal feel, and the gentlest of the four regenerative braking settings are all well tuned. However, the Brembo brakes tend to heat up quickly, given the weight and speed they must manage. The ride smooths out at higher speeds, settling into a more comfortable and luxurious feel.
Steering vagueness persists at center, compounded by a synthetic feel that hesitates to convey grip levels. Still, Sport mode provides some added weight to enhance the experience. The direct steering ratio is enjoyable, and the rear axle remains well-connected, allowing the MG to handle turns fluidly despite a bit of body roll.
Traction and stability control activate quite abruptly, yet when disengaged from its electronic aids, the Cyberster shows a nimble side, capable of adjusting its line with a lift of the throttle mid-corner (but will also understeer if power is applied too aggressively and early).
Navigating through a series of mid-speed bends, the Cyberster displays impressive speed, ample composure, and a nicely balanced demeanor. Its grip is commendable, thanks to the Pirelli P Zero PZ4 tires. However, ongoing concerns remain, including a rear axle that, despite being laterally responsive, feels underdamped, requiring multiple vertical adjustments to stabilize its low center of gravity.
Furthermore, the Cyberster does not offer the most refined roadster experience at a cruising speed of 70 mph, as it struggles with a combination of road and wind noise that elevates the noise levels inside the cabin.
Ultimately, the Cyberster’s standout feature is undoubtedly its exterior design. While this roadster provides high speed, impressive capabilities, and a fair amount of fun, it lacks the ultimate precision and engagement typically expected from a true sports car. With the next-generation Porsche Boxster also set to be offered in an electric variant, the Cyberster’s limitations are likely to become more apparent.
With plans for an assembly facility in Mexico, MG could potentially return to the U.S. market. If that occurs, the Cyberster could be the model that aligns best with American consumers’ somewhat faded perception of MG.
Specifications
Specifications
2025 MG Cyberster GT
Vehicle Type: front- and rear-motor, all-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door convertible
PRICE
Base: $77,800 (U.K.)
POWERTRAIN
Front Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC
Rear Motor: permanent-magnet synchronous AC
Combined Power: 503 hp
Combined Torque: 535 lb-ft
Battery Pack: liquid-cooled lithium-ion, 74.4 kWh
Onboard Charger: 7.0 kW
Peak DC Fast-Charge Rate: 144 kW
Transmissions, F/R: direct-drive
DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 105.9 in
Length: 178.5 in
Width: 75.3 in
Height: 52.3 in
Trunk Volume: 9 ft3
Curb Weight (C/D est): 4400 lb
PERFORMANCE (C/D EST)
60 mph: 3.0 sec
1/4-Mile: 11.7 sec
Top Speed: 125 mph
EPA FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST)
Combined: 95 MPGe
Range: 230 mi
