Smooth operator

The steering wheel is on the small side, which adds to the comfort of a well-finished driver’s seat. There is also comfort to be had for back passengers with generous space for two adults without an awkward squeeze.

As you might expect for the price tag, MG has kept it fairly basic inside but with all the essential mod-cons and smooth finishes, including a contrasting red dash, an integrated touch screen and leather-look textiles, you still feel you are getting a lot of bang for your buck.

MG has paid attention to the details, with handy little things like electric window and mirror controls, sun visors complete with integrated mirrors, deep door-side and seat pockets and a neat central console. Everything is positioned exactly where you’d want it and dashboard dials are easily read with minimum distraction.

I headed up the west coast to Port Soif at the tail end of Storm Gareth but the MG3 held firm, resisting solid winds and remaining surprisingly quiet inside the cabin. Good visibility meant I could sit back and enjoy the vista with very few driving concerns.

What comes as standard?

• Reversing parking sensors

• Electric windows and door mirrors

• Diamond-cut alloy wheels

• 8in. colour touch screen

• Apple carplay

• DAB radio with USB

• Leather steering wheel

• Direct tyre pressure monitoring

• IsoFix

• Body rear spoiler