Cover The all-new MG Cyberster is now available in Malaysia

With its bold design, scissor doors, and dual-motor powertrain, MG’s Cyberster brings much-needed flair to the EV market

There are cars you notice. Then there are cars that announce themselves. The MG Cyberster falls decisively into the latter category. With its striking scissor doors, sculpted silhouette and unapologetically dramatic presence, this is not a car that blends into the background…and that’s precisely the point.

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A few weeks back, I got behind the wheel of the MG Cyberster for a week, and my main takeaway is that this is a car built not only to be driven, but to be seen. And perhaps more importantly, to be felt. Reviving the spirit of the classic British roadster for a new generation, MG’s latest offering is part nostalgia, part future shock. It’s also the first soft-top electric roadster to hit the market—a claim that feels less like a milestone and more like a mission statement. 

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Above he powered scissor doors add a theatrical flair that never gets old

Inspired by the beloved MGB Roadster, the Cyberster takes the familiar proportions of a long hood and short rear deck and brings them into the 21st century with razor-sharp lines and futuristic detailing. The “shark nose” front and almond-shaped headlights lend a predatory stance, while the bold fender lines and sweeping haunches are pure automotive theatre.

Then there’s the showstopper: the scissor doors. Not only do they lift theatrically, they’re power-operated via discreet touch-sensitive buttons. No traditional door handles, no awkward tugging, just a gentle tap and a moment of cinematic flair. And for those worried about daily usability, MG has equipped them with sensors to avoid mishaps in tighter spaces. 

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Above Union Jack taillights double as indicators, adding cheeky personality to the rear

The Union Jack taillights may divide opinion, but they undeniably add character, while the 20-inch “Jetstream” alloys on the all-wheel-drive version lend the car real road presence.

At its core, the Cyberster isn’t just a style exercise but a serious performer. With dual electric motors delivering a combined 544 PS (400 kW) and 725 Nm of torque, the Cyberster launches from 0 to 100 km/h in a blistering 3.2 seconds. That’s supercar-quick territory, but it doesn’t shout about it. The acceleration is smooth, linear and thrilling, an instant surge that feels more like takeoff than launch.

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Photo 1 of 4 The 20-inch Jetstream alloys give the car a planted, performance-ready profile
Photo 2 of 4 The MG Cyberster commands attention with its low-slung stance and sculpted silhouette
Photo 3 of 4 The Cyberster’s bold rear design features Union Jack-inspired taillights and voluptuous haunches
Photo 4 of 4 The Cyberster features sharp lines, almond-shaped LED headlights, and a shark-nose front

Top speed is capped at 201 km/h, and MG claims a WLTP range of 444 km — respectable for something this fast and this fun. Charging from 10 to 80 per cent takes just 38 minutes with DC fast charging, though a full charge on a 7 kW AC wallbox requires more patience. 

What’s notable here is how the Cyberster manages to feel exciting without being overwhelming. This isn’t a brute force EV that overwhelms you with numbers—it’s one that invites you in. The power is there, certainly, but it’s the car’s balance, its composure and its engagement that leave a lasting impression.

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Above Inside, the Cyberster cocoons the driver in a race car-inspired cockpit

On the inside, the cabin is unapologetically driver-focused. The wraparound dashboard and snug, low seating position create a cocooned feel that makes you want to grip the steering wheel and just go. Available in black-and-red or grey-and-white, the upholstery combines Nappa leather and Alcantara—tactile, premium and surprisingly plush for a performance-focused roadster.

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Above Red Nappa leather and Alcantara upholstery add a premium touch to the futuristic interior

Then there’s the screen setup. Three displays form a panoramic digital instrument cluster and infotainment system, flanked by a fourth screen on the centre console for climate controls. It looks futuristic and works well in practice. The only drawback is that Apple CarPlay is displayed on the far-left screen, which can be partially obscured by the steering wheel. A yoke-style steering setup might have alleviated this, and would’ve doubled down on the “cyber” ethos.

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Above With 544 PS and 725 Nm of torque, the Cyberster launches from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds

All in all, the 2025 MG Cyberster isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It doesn’t offer cavernous boot space. It won’t win awards for subtlety. And it certainly doesn’t shy away from its performance ambitions. But for those who appreciate design, who want their EV with a bit of theatre and soul, and who miss the visceral connection of a top-down sports car, I can confidently say that this hits a rare sweet spot.

It’s easy to admire MG’s boldness here. In an EV market saturated with lookalike SUVs and minimalist tech pods, the Cyberster is a refreshing counterpoint. It’s expressive, emotional and engineered with a sense of fun that feels increasingly rare in the world of electrified mobility.

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Photography: Fady Younis

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Sim Wie Boon
General Manager, Tatler Malaysia, Tatler Malaysia
Tatler Asia

Sim Wie Boon is the general manager of Tatler Malaysia. Previously the print and digital editor, Sim hails from the land of the hornbills, Sarawak. Sim is now based in Kuala Lumpur and brings more than a decade of experience in the media industry as a journalist and broadcast producer.

As a self-proclaimed geriatric millennial, he appreciates the finer things in life, from savouring a sip of single malt whisky to relishing in the deliciousness of char siew. While reminiscing about the indie-sleaze era, Sim now finds solace in the soothing tunes of ambient music, staying active through running and occasionally succumbing to the addictive world of doom scrolling.

Follow him on Instagram or Threads at @simwb