The Ultimate Showdown: Chinese MPVs Take on the Innova Cross and Custin

The mid-size MPV segment priced above 700 million VND in Vietnam used to be quite “cold” with only the Toyota Innova, but it has been heated up with the entry of the Hyundai Custin and Toyota Innova Cross.

In 2024, the group welcomed another series of Chinese competitors, including the BYD M6 (756 million VND) and GAC M6 Pro (699-799 million VND), while the MG G50 is also expected to be soon released in Vietnam.

Among these, the BYD M6 is an electric model, while the two pure gasoline-powered models, the GAC M6 Pro and MG G50, will be compared.

Similar Exterior Designs, No Sliding Doors

Both the MG G50 and GAC M6 Pro feature a grille composed of horizontal bars. The MG G50’s grille is more substantial, extending across the entire front end, while the GAC M6 Pro’s grille is trapezoidal in shape, similar to its “older brother,” the GAC M8.

The MG G50’s dimensions are 4,825 x 1,825 x 1,800 mm (length x width x height), surpassing most of its competitors in the segment, such as the BYD M6 or Toyota Innova Cross. The GAC M6 Pro’s overall dimensions are also smaller than its domestic rival, measuring 4,793 x 1,837 x 1,765 mm.

One of the critical parameters for MPV vehicles is the wheelbase, as it significantly affects the interior space. In this regard, the MG G50 and GAC M6 Pro are similar, with wheelbases of 2,800 mm and 2,810 mm, respectively.

The MG G50’s wheels are 17 inches, while the GAC M6 Pro’s range from 16 to 18 inches depending on the version. Both new MPV models feature conventional door designs similar to the Toyota Innova Cross and lack sliding doors like the Hyundai Custin.

The LED headlights, seamlessly integrated with the grille, are a standard feature on both vehicles. The GAC M6 Pro’s main lighting cluster is a matrix LED, while the MG G50 employs LED projectors.

The rear designs of both vehicles are simple. A conventional trunk is standard on both the GAC M6 Pro and MG G50.

Overall, the exterior designs of the GAC M6 Pro and MG G50 are quite similar, with no significant differences between these two new mid-size MPVs.

The MG G50 gives an imposing impression from the front, while the GAC M6 Pro’s design easily evokes associations with larger MPV models like the GAC M8 or Toyota Alphard.

Second-Row Seats Make the Difference

The initial impression of the GAC M6 Pro’s cabin is a sense of modernity that surpasses the MG G50.

Behind the three-spoke steering wheel, the GAC M6 Pro boasts a dual-screen setup comprising a 7-inch LCD multi-information screen and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen.

In contrast, the MG G50 is equipped with a 12.3-inch central screen positioned prominently, alongside a digital instrument cluster positioned behind the flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel.

Although both vehicles feature electronic gearshift levers, the MG G50’s lever is positioned behind the steering wheel, freeing up some space between the two rows of seats. In the GAC M6 Pro, the electronic gearshift is located on the central console next to the electronic parking brake, Auto Hold activation button, and driving mode selector paddles.

The GAC M6 Pro’s climate control system is adjusted via a row of physical buttons, while the MG G50’s system is controlled through the central touchscreen.

The GAC M6 Pro is equipped with two independent seats in the second row across all versions sold in Vietnam. These seats have a reasonable amount of lumbar support and feature individual armrests. The seats are upholstered in fabric in the standard version and leather in the higher-end version.

The MG G50, as showcased at the VMS 2024, has a 2+3+3 configuration that accommodates up to eight passengers. There is a seven-seat version of this Chinese MPV, but it has not yet been introduced to the Vietnamese market.

A quick experience at the VMS 2024 revealed that both the MG G50 and GAC M6 Pro offer spacious third-row seating, even when prioritizing legroom for passengers in the second row.

For now, the seven-seat configuration is an advantage of the GAC M6 Pro over its domestic rival, but it remains to be seen whether SAIC Motor Vietnam will introduce the seven-seat version of the MG G50 in the future.

Awaiting the MG G50’s Pricing

GAC equips the M6 Pro with a 1.5L turbocharged gasoline engine that produces 174 hp and 270 Nm of torque, paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission.

The MG G50 also features a 1.5L turbocharged engine, but with slightly different specifications: 168 hp and 285 Nm of torque. It offers two transmission options: a 6-speed manual or a 7-speed wet dual-clutch.

Overall, the engine specifications of the two MPVs are not significantly different. If the MG G50 indeed offers a manual transmission option as suggested, it will be more accessible to customers looking for a vehicle for ride-hailing services.

Currently, the GAC M6 Pro’s price range of 699-799 million VND is considered competitive compared to other vehicles in the segment, such as the Toyota Innova Cross (810-990 million VND), Hyundai Custin (820-974 million VND), and BYD M6 (756 million VND).

The MG G50’s official pricing has not been announced, but according to rumors, it is likely to fall within the range of 650-750 million VND.

If this information is accurate, the Chinese MPV duo of GAC M6 Pro and MG G50 will soon become the talk of the town in the mid-size MPV segment, which was once dominated by the Toyota Innova and is now witnessing a close race between the Toyota Innova Cross and Hyundai Custin.

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