MG has developed a super-efficient hybrid powertrain which is making its debut on the new MG3 supermini.

With an official fuel return rated at 64.2mpg it's up with the best of the current crop of self-charging hybrids - and in the real world such economy can be achieved with some ease.

We have just put the new MG through its paces in more than 500 miles of driving and it is an impressive vehicle on all fronts.

The top range Trophy specification model we drove was priced at £20,495 - £2,000 more than the entry-level SE version - and came fully kitted with a gamut of driver aids including rear cross traffic alerts as well as blind zone detection, keyless entry and smart looking synthetic leather upholstery with fabric inserts.

There are also LED projector headlamps and a rear wiper, heated front seats and steering wheel plus a 360-degree view camera system.

The new MG3 is slightly bigger than its predecessor and is now some 4.1 metres long which has created more space inside with boot space ranging from 293 to 983 litres with the rear seats folded - although the back bench does not split.

The car is nicely styled with sculpted bodywork and a distinctive front grille that stretches its entire width.

Inside, there is a two-screen layout with a seven-inch digital instrument panel and a 10.25 oblong display in the middle of the facia.

Sat nav is standard on the MG3 and the graphics sharp and clear.

It's a comprehensive display but accessing information using the steering wheel controls can be confusing at first. Equally, voice control can be used only if Apple CarPlay or Android Auto are enabled.

The MG3's strength is its economy, which is outstanding. On a motorway run we saw an average of 63 to the gallon while driving on rural roads an astonishing 85mpg was possible.

The hybrid set up uses a 1.5-litre engine mated to an electric motor and has a very effective regeneration system that allows almost full single pedal operation.

A three-speed automatic gearbox operated from a rotary control in the centre console is unusual in hybrids where most vehicles use CVT systems but it makes the difference the MG3's three drive modes marked,

Eco really reduces throttle effect while Sport is nicely lively - and the Normal mode does what it says.

Top speed is 106mph and the 0 to 62mph acceleration time is eight seconds and with 191bhp on tap performance is healthy. Emissions are 100g/km.

Automatic electronic parking brakes are becoming a fairly common feature on all models these days and the MG3 is no exception and that helps create an uncluttered feel to the interior and frees up space for some large storage areas in the centre console.

For a relatively small car interior room is good all round and makes the five-door MG3 a fiar choice as a small family car.

Factor in MG's seven year, 80,000 ole warranty and the car's keen price and the new MG3 represents excellent value for money for a car that is as much at home in the city as it is on a long distance run.