The MG Comet EV, a fully electric compact car, promises nimble city driving and an eco-friendly footprint. But does its performance live up to the hype? This review delves into the Comet’s strengths and weaknesses, examining its powertrain, driving dynamics, charging capabilities, and overall practicality.
Power and Performance: Zippy in the City, Limited on the Highway
The Comet EV boasts a 41bhp electric motor generating 110Nm of torque, powered by a 17.3kWh IP67-rated battery. CarWale testing revealed a real-world range of 191km, slightly less than the claimed 230km. While adequate for urban commutes, this range limits its highway usability. Acceleration is brisk in city traffic, with 0-60kmph achieved in a respectable 6.98 seconds. However, overtaking maneuvers require patience, as 20-80kmph takes 10.48 seconds and 40-100kmph takes 17.44 seconds. The Comet’s top speed is capped at 85kmph, making highway cruising a challenge.
Driving Dynamics: Agile Handling in Tight Spaces, Compromised Ride at Higher Speeds
The Comet’s compact dimensions and light steering make maneuvering through congested city streets a breeze. Parking in tight spots is effortless. Three driving modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—cater to varying driving needs, with Eco mode providing sufficient power for most urban situations. However, the ride quality deteriorates at higher speeds, becoming harsh over uneven surfaces. The tall-boy design, coupled with a short wheelbase, small 12-inch wheels, and narrow tires, contributes to nervousness when cornering enthusiastically.
Charging and Features: Convenient City Charging, Lack of Fast Charging a Drawback
Charging the Comet EV is straightforward, though the absence of fast charging is a significant drawback. Using a 7.4kW charger, a full charge from 0-100% takes 3.5 hours, while a 3.3kW charger requires seven hours. While convenient for overnight charging, the lack of fast charging limits long-distance travel. The Comet dispenses with a traditional start/stop button; instead, double-tapping the brake pedal and selecting “D” mode readies the vehicle. A notable omission is the creep function, requiring accelerator input to initiate movement. Hill hold assist proves beneficial on inclines. Braking performance is smooth and predictable, with adequate pedal feel.
Conclusion: A City-Centric Electric Vehicle with Limitations
The MG Comet EV excels as a city runabout, offering nimble handling, efficient electric power, and a compact footprint ideal for urban environments. However, its limited range, lack of fast charging, and compromised highway performance restrict its versatility. For those seeking a purely urban electric vehicle, the Comet presents a compelling option. However, drivers requiring frequent highway travel or faster charging capabilities should consider alternatives. Ultimately, the Comet EV’s suitability depends on individual driving needs and priorities.
