The MG 15E4E is a 1,490 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine, often integrated into hybrid systems, produced by SAIC Motor since 2020. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), direct fuel injection, and a single-scroll turbocharger to balance efficiency with accessible power. Variable valve timing technology enables optimized performance across the rev range, supporting both pure petrol and electrified drivetrain configurations.
Fitted primarily to the MG5 EV (range-extender variant) and certain MG HS Plug-in Hybrid models, the 15E4E was engineered as a compact, efficient generator and propulsion unit for MG's expanding electrified lineup. Emissions compliance is maintained through gasoline particulate filtration (GPF) and precise engine management, meeting Euro 6d standards across its production run for relevant markets.
One documented area for attention is the potential for high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failures under sustained high-load conditions, noted in SAIC Technical Bulletin TB-FP-003. This is linked to material fatigue in early production batches. SAIC addressed this in mid-2022 with a revised pump design and updated calibration to reduce peak pressure stress.
All production years (2020–Present) meet Euro 6d emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
The MG 15E4E is a 1,490 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine, frequently used in hybrid applications (2020–Present). It combines direct fuel injection with a single-scroll turbocharger to deliver responsive low-end torque and efficient operation as a range extender. Designed to meet stringent Euro 6d standards, it prioritizes refinement and emissions compliance in electrified powertrains.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,490 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (Single-Scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 119–124 kW (162–168 PS) | |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct Injection (Bosch) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single-scroll turbocharger | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W‑30 (ACEA C5) | |
| Dry weight | Approx. 125 kg |
The single-scroll turbo provides adequate torque for its role as a generator or supplementary power source but operates under unique thermal cycles in hybrid applications, demanding strict adherence to oil change intervals. ACEA C5 low-viscosity oil is critical for fuel efficiency and GPF protection. The documented HPFP issue in early units necessitates vigilance for fuel pressure-related faults; post-2022 engines feature the updated pump. The chain-driven timing system is robust but benefits from periodic inspection.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C5 5W-30 oil for optimal efficiency and emissions system longevity (SAIC Owner's Manual).
Emissions: Euro 6d certification applies to all models (2020–Present) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9101).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across hybrid and range-extender applications (SAIC PT-MG15E-2021).
SAIC Motor Technical Information System: Docs PT-MG15E-2021, TB-ENG-005, TB-FP-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9101)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The MG 15E4E was used across MG's electrified platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-unique engine mounts and exhaust routing for the MG5 EV-and software revisions for hybrid duty cycles, creating minor calibration differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the alternator (SAIC TIS ENG-002). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine type ('E' for 15E4E). Visually, the engine features a compact single-scroll turbocharger and a plastic engine cover labeled "1.5T". Critical differentiation from 1.5L naturally aspirated engines: The 15E4E has a visible turbocharger and intercooler piping. ECU software is specific to hybrid or range-extender function; verify application using SAIC diagnostic software.
The 15E4E's primary reliability focus is the high-pressure fuel pump, with elevated incidence in early production (2020-2022) under high thermal load. SAIC internal data indicated a higher-than-expected failure rate in the first 80,000 km for these units, while later revisions show marked improvement. Operation in hybrid duty cycles, with frequent cold starts and variable load, makes adherence to the prescribed maintenance schedule critical.
Analysis derived from SAIC technical bulletins (2020-2024) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about MG 15E4E.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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