MG teases Rugged Cyber X SUV Concept, Expanding EV Lineup
The Cyber X concept, revealed at the Shanghai motor show, hints at a bold new direction for the iconic brand, perhaps reaching U.S. shores.
By Archyde.com News Service
SHANGHAI — MG motor,the British brand now owned by China’s SAIC,has unveiled the Cyber X,a rugged and boxy SUV concept,at the Shanghai motor show. The concept previews the second model in MG’s fashion-focused Cyber line-up, signaling a potential expansion of its electric vehicle (EV) offerings, possibly including the U.S.market.
The Cyber X is designed as a bold,two-box,4×4-inspired crossover,measuring 4.3 meters (approximately 169 inches) in length. This puts it in roughly the same size class as the short-wheelbase Land Rover Defender 90, and slightly smaller than the MG S5 EV, which recently debuted in the UK.While the S5 EV has no confirmed U.S. release date, industry analysts speculate that the Cyber X could be a more appealing option for the American market, given the enduring popularity of SUVs and crossovers.
Concept Without an Interior Hints at Rapid Advancement
The Cyber X has been revealed in concept form without a fully realized interior. However, SAIC’s design boss Jozef Kaban told reporters that the rapid pace of development in China means it could quickly be made production-ready.
One of the main goals of the Cyber X concept is to demonstrate how the Cyber line-up, geared towards enthusiasts, could be broadened. The aim is to inject a fresh character into the MG family. Kaban emphasized the emotional connection MG seeks to create, stating, “One thing we have been talking about is the passion of MG and delivering experience which is not just going from A to B but a pleasure which makes you happy.”
Appealing to a Broad Audience
MG hopes to tap into a wide demographic with its vehicles.According to Kaban, “MG connects young and old people, rich and unrich people. Not many brands have the ability to do what MG does.” This inclusive approach could be a key factor in MG’s potential success in the U.S., where a diverse range of consumers are increasingly embracing EVs.
Cyberster’s Sibling takes a Different Design Path
The Cyber X previews a sibling to the Cyberster electric sports car and would likely share its core mechanicals and technologies. However, it adopts a radically different design language. This divergence is part of Kaban’s strategy to maximize the Cyber line-up’s appeal.
“When you see the Cyberster, it’s soft like a circle, with almost no edges, and with the other one coming, it’s almost like plus and minus. They are fully different. But plus cannot live without minus. Their contrasts bring people together,” Kaban explained.
Design Inspired by MG’s Emblem
Kaban pointed out that the octagonal shape of MG’s logo can be seen as a “square circle or a round square.” He suggests that this concept informs the contrasting design approaches of the sleek Cyberster and the more angular Cyber X SUV.
Pro tip: Keep an eye on goverment incentives and tax credits for EVs. These can significantly reduce the overall cost of ownership and make electric vehicles more accessible.Addressing the Skepticism
Some critics argue that MG, under SAIC ownership, has lost its original British character and is simply leveraging a historic brand name to sell Chinese-made vehicles. they might question the authenticity of the “passion” that Kaban describes. However, it’s important to note that many iconic automotive brands have changed ownership over the years, and that innovation and design can come from anywhere in the world. The Cyber X, irrespective of its origins, is a compelling design that addresses the growing demand for electric SUVs, and its success will ultimately depend on its performance, reliability, and price point.
FAQ: MG Cyber X and its Potential U.S. Launch
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is the MG Cyber X an all-electric SUV? | Yes, the Cyber X is designed as an electric SUV, aligning with the growing demand for EVs globally. |
| What is the size of the MG Cyber X? | The Cyber X measures 4.3 meters (approximately 169 inches) in length, similar to the Land Rover Defender 90. |
| when will the MG Cyber X be available in the U.S.? | There is no confirmed U.S. release date yet. However, industry analysts speculate that it could be a potential option for the American market. |
| What is the expected price range of the MG Cyber X? | Pricing details have not been announced, but it will likely be competitive within the electric SUV segment. |
| What other models are in the MG Cyber line-up? | The Cyberster electric sports car is the first model in the Cyber line-up. The Cyber X is previewed as a sibling to the Cyberster car but with a different design approach. |
Given MG’s history, accessibility, and passion, how will the Cyber X appeal too diverse audiences, including “young and old, rich and unrich?
Archyde Interviews: Jozef Kaban on the Rugged Cyber X and MG’s EV Future
Archyde.com, May 1, 2025
Archyde News Editor: welcome, Mr. Kaban. Thank you for joining us today to discuss the exciting new Cyber X concept from MG. For our readers who are just learning about this, can you start by giving us your thoughts on the immediate reception of the Cyber X at the Shanghai Auto Show?
Jozef Kaban, SAIC Design Director: Thank you for having me. The initial reaction to the Cyber X has been overwhelmingly positive. We saw a lot of interest in the rugged design and the intention behind bringing a different character to the Cyber lineup. People are excited about MG’s new direction.
Archyde News Editor: The Cyber X is positioned as a sibling to the Cyberster, but it represents a starkly different design approach. Why did you choose this contrasting design philosophy for the Cyber line-up,essentially a “plus and minus” dynamic?
Jozef Kaban: We wanted to demonstrate the versatility of the Cyber brand. The cyberster embodies a sleek,flowing design,a soft circle. The Cyber X, in contrast, is about strength and angularity, the minus in the equation. Both complement each other. They represent our vision of a dynamic EV series, something for enthusiasts.their differences bring a different experience to the customers.
Archyde News Editor: The article mentions the unique possibility to bring together diverse groups of people, which is a core value for the brand. can you elaborate on how MG plans to appeal to a broad audience, including both “young and old, rich and unrich?”
Jozef Kaban: MG’s history has always been about accessibility and passion. We want cars that people of all ages and backgrounds can connect with and appreciate.Electrification allows us to bring those values to the cutting edge.The cyber X’s design, its potential for off-road capability, and possibly competitive pricing are strategies to reach a wider audience.
Archyde News Editor: The U.S. market is, of course, a key consideration. Given the increasing popularity of electric SUVs there, what specific features of the Cyber X do you believe will resonate with American consumers?
Jozef Kaban: American consumers, especially in the electric SUV segment, are showing a preference for vehicles that offer versatility and a sense of adventure. The Cyber X’s rugged styling and potential for all-wheel-drive capability speak directly to that. We believe its size, comparable to something like a Defender 90, will also be very appealing. It’s a car for urban adventures, and for those who want a capable vehicle.
Archyde News Editor: The article also touches on potential challenges entering the U.S. market, particularly around brand awareness and meeting U.S. safety and emissions standards. What is MG doing to address these hurdles?
Jozef Kaban: We are well aware of the requirements. SAIC has a global presence and extensive experience in navigating these regulatory landscapes. Building brand awareness is a priority, and we are actively exploring strategies to connect with American consumers and showcase the brand’s heritage and innovative approach. The Cyber X is part of this effort.
Archyde news Editor: While there’s no confirmed U.S. release date, is there a general timeline you can share, even if it’s a broad estimate, for when we might see the Cyber X potentially hit U.S. roads?
Jozef Kaban: At this stage, I can only say that we are evaluating the market. We’re excited about the potential in the U.S. and will keep everyone informed as decisions are made,but this is the best answer I can give for now.
Archyde News Editor: Many people have asked whether MG can retain its “British character” under SAIC ownership. What would you say to those who express this skepticism? And how does the Cyber X reflect MG’s ongoing evolution?
Jozef Kaban: We respect the heritage of the MG brand. What we are doing is evolving it while keeping those things. we are an innovative brand,and innovation doesn’t have a nationality. The Cyber X, regardless of its origins, is testament to our global design team, and that passionate team puts a great emphasis on driving a connection with the customers.
Archyde News Editor: looking ahead, what’s one thing you hope people will take away from the Cyber X concept and MG’s vision for its EV future?
Jozef Kaban: I hope people see that MG is committed to creating exciting, accessible electric vehicles that put the fun and emotion back into driving. We’re not just about getting from A to B; we’re about the experience. The Cyber X is a great example of how we are working to bring this vision to life.
Archyde News Editor: Mr. kaban, thank you very much for your time and insights. We eagerly anticipate seeing how the Cyber X evolves and what it means for MG’s future.
