The MG 1.5L eGT is a 1,498 cc, inline-four, turbocharged petrol engine developed by SAIC Motor for use in MG's modern passenger vehicles. Produced from 2020 onwards, it features direct fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and a low-inertia turbocharger to balance responsiveness and efficiency. In its standard tune, it produces 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm of torque, enabling strong mid-range performance in compact and mid-size models.
Fitted to models including the MG HS and MG5, the 1.5L eGT engine was engineered to deliver a sporty driving experience with everyday usability. It supports both front-wheel-drive and plug-in hybrid configurations, offering flexibility across the lineup. Emissions compliance is achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and closed-loop lambda control, meeting Euro 6d standards across all markets.
One documented update occurred in 2022 with revised engine mapping and cooling system calibration to improve thermal management under sustained load. This change, referenced in SAIC Technical Service Bulletin TSB-ENG-2022-015, addressed early reports of torque derating in hot climates. No major mechanical revisions have been issued, though ongoing software updates are distributed via MG’s central gateway module.
All production years 2020–present meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The MG 1.5L eGT is a 1,498 cc inline-four turbo-petrol engineered for compact SUVs and fastback sedans (2020–present). It combines direct injection with a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive mid-range acceleration. Designed to meet Euro 6d standards, it balances performance and emissions compliance for urban and highway use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,498 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.8 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,700–4,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDEV5 direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (RDE2 compliant) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Electric water pump, dual-circuit | |
| Turbocharger | BorgWarner KP39 low-inertia turbo | |
| Timing system | Timing chain (maintenance-free design) | |
| Oil type | SAIC SAE 5W-30 (C2/C3 compatible) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The low-inertia turbo provides immediate throttle response ideal for urban overtaking but requires consistent use of 95 RON or higher fuel to prevent knock and maintain performance. SAIC SAE 5W-30 oil is essential for turbo bearing longevity and piston cooling. Extended idling in traffic should be avoided to reduce carbon buildup on intake valves. The HDEV5 fuel system is sensitive to low-quality petrol, increasing risk of injector coking. Software updates are frequent and must be applied via MG-approved diagnostics to ensure emissions compliance and drivability. Cooling system integrity is critical; any loss of coolant can trigger immediate power reduction.
Oil Specs: Requires SAIC 5W-30 specification (SAIC TIS Doc. OIL-01). Meets ACEA C2/C3; backward compatible with C1-00.
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). RDE2-compliant across EU and UK markets.
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Full torque curve requires RON 98 fuel (SAIC TIS Doc. ENG-1500T).
SAIC Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-1500T, TURBO-01, OIL-01, TSB-ENG-2022-015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
European Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
The MG 1.5L eGT was used across MG's SSA platform with transverse mounting and shared architecture with Maxus for commercial derivatives. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shorter intake manifolds in the MG5 and hybrid integration in the HS PHEV-and from 2022 the updated HS facelift adopted revised ECU mapping for improved throttle response, creating software compatibility limits. Partnerships enabled Maxus to use the base engine in the G50 van. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-left side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (SAIC TIS ENG-1500T). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for 1.5L eGT). Pre-2022 models have a silver intake manifold with black plastic covers; post-2022 units use gloss-black trim. Critical differentiation from non-turbo variants: eGT models have a turbocharger mounted to the right side of the engine with an intercooler pipe exiting the top. Service parts require model-year verification—ECUs from pre-2022 HS models are not flash-compatible with post-facelift units due to gateway software changes (SAIC TSB-ENG-2022-015).
The 1.5L eGT's primary reliability risk is intake valve carbon buildup in stop-start urban driving, with elevated incidence in vehicles used for short trips. SAIC field reports from 2023 indicated over 15% of 2020–2021 HS units required intake cleaning before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA data shows a growing trend in lambda sensor faults linked to fuel quality. Infrequent oil changes and low-octane fuel increase knock sensor activity and torque derating, making fuel quality and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from SAIC technical bulletins (2020–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MG 1-5L-EGT.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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MG Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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