Buzz
During the weekend of December 23-24, MG Vietnam organized a test drive program for all models at the Dai Nam Racetrack. This was an expanded program, allowing all MG enthusiasts to register and experience any model. Particularly noteworthy was the hot lap experience on the Cyberster electric car, considered MG's 'electric supercar' with a power output of up to 544PS and accelerating from 0-100km/h in 3.2 seconds.MG exhibited great confidence in designing the test drive layout at the Dai Nam Racetrack, featuring various challenges including acceleration tests, high-speed slaloms, rough terrain navigation, emergency braking, and most notably, sharp turns. From my firsthand experience, the New MG 5 and MG RX5 stood out the most in these trials, thanks to their robust chassis and suspension systems, allowing for maximum engine performance and high-speed cornering excitement.
For the first time in several years, I witnessed an event showcasing extensive and grand-scale test drives similar to this one. Customers from HCMC were shuttled in groups with various time slots for their test drives, while those from neighboring areas or driving themselves also flocked to the event in the evening.
The static display area allowed customers ample time to explore. These are the products that MG officially distributes and sells in Vietnam.
The Cyberster model was also on display for customers to see in person. This electric sports car features a 2-seater convertible coupé design. Depending on the version, the power output varies. The standard version boasts 310 horsepower and a range of over 500km on a single charge. Unofficial sources suggest that this model has received deposits from some interested customers in Vietnam. Although the selling price has not been disclosed, it is likely to be around 2.7 billion Vietnamese Dong.
The spectator area is where MG interacts with customers, shares product information, and disseminates track regulations. This is a crucial step before anyone takes the wheel on the racetrack for the first time because it's entirely different from driving on regular roads. Sometimes even at 40km/h, handling a car can pose challenges. Of course, there will be an Instructor team onboard to ensure safety.
Here's another Cyberster reserved for the Hot Lap experience. This version boasts 544PS of power and can accelerate from 0-100km/h in just 3.2 seconds. With a large number of customers experiencing the event, but only one of this model available, MG organized lucky draws to select fortunate customers for the experience.
All MG models available in Vietnam have sufficient quantities for test drives.
In addition to experiencing the cars, MG organizes car performances by professional athletes. The aim is to change the atmosphere or increase allure, while also showcasing the capabilities of the New MG5 series.
The MG RX5 is a completely new model, recently officially launched in Vietnam. It's also a model that attracted the attention of test drivers throughout the two-day event.
After watching the professional Instructor's demonstration with the New MG5, I was eager to sign up for a test drive of this model. In the first round, the Instructor takes the wheel to familiarize me with the track and test courses, then I'll take over. This is the manual transmission version priced at 399 million Dong. However, it's the model I rated highest during the test drive session due to its stable chassis, allowing for high-speed cornering, and the manual transmission addressing the flaws in gear shifting of the automatic transmission variant. The engine opens up to 7,000 rpm, and in 2nd gear, it can reach up to 90km/h, quite impressive for this affordable car.
Sunday also marks the program's finale, extending until 10 p.m. with a music performance. However, at 6 p.m., there were still participants signing up for test drives, and the hot lap session with the Cyberster sports car was still ongoing.
Finally, the entertainment music program featuring Big Daddy and DJ Naomi managed to keep interested attendees engaged until nearly midnight.MG is a newcomer to the Vietnamese market, and their car models are largely unfamiliar to Vietnamese customers. Real-world experience programs are essential not only for the MG brand but also for any car brand. Even though a car may be relatively affordable, costing hundreds of millions of dong, the decision to purchase it is crucial. Therefore, beyond considerations and calculations, test driving to determine if the car truly suits one's needs is essential.
