Borrowing more than a hint of the Nissan Juke’s exterior design, the MG Icon Concept is a pint-sized crossover scheduled to appear next week, during the 2012 Beijing Auto Show. The concept is motivated by a 135-bhp turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, which, at least on paper, doesn’t stack up well against the 188-hp offered in the Juke. We do like the subtle hints of MGB GT here and there; the classic 3-door hatchback lends the general shape of its rear window and taillights to the Icon.
The basis for this concept is the new MG3 hatchback, a small economy car that’s about the same size as a Honda Fit. Other than the pumped up body and taller ride height, the Icon adds a pair of rear-hinged doors and oversized wheels. Upon a closer look at the photo of the rear, the Icon’s wheels appear not to have any direct mechanical link to the car. Are our eyes playing tricks, or was someone getting too creative with Photoshop? China’s SAIC, owner of MG and its related Roewe brand, hopes to boost MG sales at home while reviving them from near-extinction in Europe.
While we applaud the effort to keep this beloved marque going, the Icon simply seems underpowered and over-styled at the concept stage.
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Photos: 2012 Beijing Auto Show >>
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