MG has used the 2013 Shanghai Motor Show to preview the exciting new MG3 supermini, in advance of the UK and European launches in late 2013.

Carrying forward the styling cues first illustrated on the MG Zero concept vehicle, the new European MG3 is a distinctive statement of modern British style designed to target young and style conscious buyers, wanting something that's fun to drive and own.

This unique and contemporary style was brought to the super-mini segment by the design and engineering team at the MG Birmingham site in Longbridge, UK. The MG3 will become the second in a new generation of MG vehicles to leave the assembly line at the Birmingham factory.

At launch, customers will be able to personalise both the exterior and interior of this new supermini MG making it fun to buy and own, as well as the MG trademark of being fun to drive.

British Style fun

MG's UK-based design team have given the new MG3 a cheeky touch of flair from every viewing angle.

How do I look from the front? - With a flash of style from the 'hockey stick' LED daytime running lights on every trim level, a full-width black mesh grille, and black A-Pillar and 'visor' wraparound style windscreen, the MG3 is unmistakable on the road.

Is this my best side? The dual colour side skirts echo the design of the MG ZERO, lowering the stance of the car and hinting at just how much fun the MG3 could be to own. Diamond-cut, dual colour wheels give a real touch of class on the higher trim levels.

And from the rear? There is an echo of the fun and sportiness that lies at the heart of the MG brand. With a rear valance insert inspired by generations of MG racing cars, a unique superelliptic tail pipe finished in chrome and a body-coloured tail spoiler, the MG3 looks distinctly sleek and sporty - a designer's dream.

SPACE FOR FUN

Normally this is where the compromise comes on small sporty cars - but not with MG3. Fun, entertaining and easy to live with, the MG3 combines style and enjoyment with practical spaciousness. The designers and engineers have combined to create an exceptional amount of space and versatility in a very compact five-door package.

Extensive work from the MG Design and Engineering team on the architectural package has resulted in interior packaging that rivals or surpasses anything in its class. In a 4m long package, the MG3 will easily accommodate four 6ft individuals; a level of accommodation typically associated with larger cars that mirrors the spaciousness of the MG6 range.

The MG3's 'rolled and raised' front dashboard design creates an airy forward cabin space and increased legroom, while allowing excellent access to primary and secondary controls. This theme is continued in the rear of the car, where the front seats are sculpted to allow rear passengers excellent space to travel in comfort.

Class-leading rear headroom is another characteristic which sets the MG3 apart. Many cars in this sector compromise on interior space, particularly in the rear. But rear headroom in the MG3 is more than generous.

FUN BOY 3

Designed with the core value of being fun to drive, the MG3 chassis has been honed from hundreds of thousands of miles of testing on European roads. Intended to deliver impressive levels of body control, sharpness and a willingness to corner to engage keen drivers, MG's world class team of chassis engineers have also delivered sure footed handling and impressive ride comfort. Together this makes the MG3 suitable for every journey, from crowded urban routes, to flowing British B-roads or cruising on a European motorway.

MY MG3

In addition to a wide range of body colours a range of personalisation options will be available, allowing the MG3 to be tailored to the individual behind the wheel. Roof, side and bonnet graphics will allow owners to personalise their own MG3. Interior trims, wheels, vents, surrounds and mats will all be available in a choice of designs, colours and finishes allowing you to make your MG3 truly personal.

KEEP IT IN THE FAMILY

The new baby MG will be powered by a healthy 105PS version of the VTi-TECH petrol engine, joining the MG6 DTi-TECH and TCi-TECH engines in the European family. The dynamic and responsive VTi-TECH engine is mated to a 5-speed manual transmission that makes this little baby perfectly suited to nipping in and out of city traffic or enjoying a great British B road.