New Ora Funky Cat vs MG 4 EV: verdict

The MG 4 is currently our favourite small electric car, but is its position under threat from Chinese brand Ora’s new contender?...

Published20 March 2023

Our verdict

All things considered, the Funky Cat has to go down as a disappointment. Yes, it has its strengths – a sharp-looking interior, plenty of rear space and an impressive safety rating – but it also has too many flaws to go toe to toe with the best cars in this class. Its mediocre range, slow charging speed and poky boot don’t make for an EV that’s easy live with, especially if you want to do a long journey occasionally.

The MG 4 has fewer flaws and does the important things (namely range and charging) significantly better. And when you consider that it also costs less to own, that only extends its advantage. That said, we reckon the cheaper SE with the smaller battery option is even more compelling.

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1st – MG 4 EV

For Good range; fast public charging; stronger performance; lots of standard kit; cheaper to run; holds its value better
Against Interior quality is a bit of a letdown; offset driving position; Trophy isn’t such outstanding value as the entry-level SE
Recommended options None

What Car? says 4 stars out of 5

Read our full MG 4 EV review >>

Find MG 4 EV deals >>

2nd – Ora Funky Cat

For Inviting interior with some smart materials; generous rear seat space; impressive safety rating
Against Restrictive range and charging speed; small boot; more expensive on PCP finance; artificial-feeling steering
Recommended options Aurora Green or Mars Red paint (£795)

What Car? says 2 stars out of 5

Read our full Ora Funky Cat review >>

Find Ora Funky Cat deals >>

Specifications: MG 4 EV Long Range Trophy

Engine Electric motor
Peak power 201bhp
Peak torque 184Ib ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, RWD
0-60mph 7.4sec
30-70mph 6.6sec
Top speed 100mph
30-0mph 10.7m
70-0mph 61.5m
Noise at 30mph 61db
Noise at 70mph 66.9db
Kerb weight 1685kg
Tyre size (std) 215/50 R17
Real world range 196 miles
Official range 270 miles
Efficiency 3.2 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 61.7kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 135kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 10hr
Rapid charging, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 34min
CO2 emissions 0g/km

Specifications: New Ora Funky Cat First Edition

Engine Electric motor
Peak power 170bhp
Peak torque 184Ib ft
Gearbox 1-spd automatic, FWD
0-60mph 8.4sec
30-70mph 7.3sec
Top speed 99mph
30-0mph 11.8m
70-0mph 63.5m
Noise at 30mph 61.4db
Noise at 70mph 68.2db
Kerb weight 1540kg
Tyre size (std) 215/50 R18
Real world range 130 miles
Official range 193 miles
Efficiency 2.9 miles/kWh
Battery capacity (usable) 45.4kWh
Rapid charging type CCS
Maximum charging rate 64kW
7kW home wallbox (0-100% charging time) 7hr 15min
Rapid charging, peak rate (10-80% charging time) 45min
CO2 emissions 0g/km