Head to Head: MG G50 Plus vs Hyundai Stargazer

The MPV segment is a hotly contested market where most major brands want a piece of some action. Though brands from Japan and South Korea dominate the segment in terms of popularity, Chinese brands are also eager to cut themselves a slice. 

Just recently, in June 2024, MG finally entered the MPV market with an entry of their own, the familiar G50 Plus. This MPV undercuts most of the competition with its price, impressive list of features, and refreshed face. So, how does it fare against a close market competitor from an established brand, like the Hyundai Stargazer? Let’s see what their respective spec sheets have to say. In this article, we will be comparing the range-topping MG G50 Plus LUX and the Hyundai Stargazer GLS Premium IVT 6-Seater with each other. Without further ado, let the match begin.

Starting with the exterior, the two MPVs go in two wildly different directions. While the MG G50 Plus is more aggressive, with sleek lines and striking edges, the Stargazer’s exterior is more futuristic. 

Both vehicles are attractive but they won’t appeal to a buyer in the same way. To put it simply, the MG G50 Plus is attractive because it looks like a conventional, modern MPV, from the headlights to the grille, everything is where you expect it to be. Meanwhile, because the Stargazer has quite an unconventional look, it takes a bit of time to get used to. But it makes up for it with its tasteful body lines and extensive detail the more you look at it.

In terms of equipment, both cars are equipped with LED headlights, LED DRLs, LED rear lights, electric folding mirrors, a high-mount stop light, and a stylish set of alloy wheels. Ultimately when it comes to the styling front between these two cars, the choice is up to you on which car’s exterior resonates with you the most. On that note, this round is a tie between the two.

Winner: Tie

Moving inside, it's much the same story as the exterior. The Hyundai Stargazer takes a more streamlined and simple approach to its cabin while the MG G50 Plus is more stylish and dare we say more sporty. Both vehicles are upholstered in leather with the interior being treated to touches of matte plastics and chrome in high-touch areas. The Stargazer does have an edge over the G50 Plus with extra details like a folding tray table for second-row passengers and neatly integrated cubby holes plus bottle holders in the doors. Though both vehicles are quite close in terms of interior quality and layout, we’re leaning toward the Stargazer thanks to the additional thought put into the second row.

Winner: Stargazer

On the tech front, both MPVs are fairly evenly matched, with the main difference being the screen size: the MG G50 Plus features a 12.3-inch infotainment system, while the Hyundai Stargazer has an eight-inch display. Both vehicles offer Bluetooth connectivity and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Both cars also offer convenience features like a reverse camera, reverse parking sensors, and cruise control. Exclusive to the MG G50 Plus is an electronic handbrake with auto-hold while the Stargazer offers a wireless charging pad up front.

Given that the MG G50 Plus and Stargazer offer something a bit different for the customer, both cars are evenly matched as we mentioned before. But, we’ll give this round to the MG G50 Plus for the addition of the electronic parking brake with its auto-hold feature. The reason is simple, most of us will not have a phone compatible with wireless charging but we will always be stuck in stop-and-go traffic. 

Winner: MG G50 Plus

This round is where the Stargazer takes the lead over the MG G50 Plus. The Stargazer GLS Premium 6-Seater is equipped with Hyundai Smartsense technology, offering an array of intelligent driver aids. Features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Rear Occupant Alert, Lane Keeping Assist, High-Beam Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit Warning, and Lane Following Assist. Other features include a tire pressure monitoring system, hill-start assist, electronic stability control, dual front, side, and curtain airbags, and manual speed limit assist.

Meanwhile, the G50 Plus’s safety features include dual front and side airbags, vehicle stability control, hill-start assist, ISOFIX anchors, rear parking sensors, a rear camera, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Due to the abundance of safety equipment in the Stargazer, we have to give this round to Hyundai’s MPV.

Winner: Stargazer

Moving toward the topic of power, we’re comparing naturally aspirated power versus forced induction. Starting with the G50 Plus, MG’s MPV is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with a seven-speed wet DCT. The G50 Plus’s powertrain delivers 179 hp and 285 Nm of torque.

On the other hand, the Stargazer is powered by a naturally aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine paired with Hyundai’s Intelligent Variable Transmission. The Stargazer produces 113 hp and 144 Nm of torque.

When it comes to power, the G50 Plus takes the win with no contest, boasting 66 hp and 141 Nm of torque more than the Stargazer.

Winner: MG G50 Plus

Now for the final part, we compare both MPVs’ prices. The MG G50 Plus and the Hyundai Stargazer are competitively priced in the MPV segment, but when compared with each other, only P9,112 separates the two with the MG G50 Plus Lux priced at P1,288,888 while the Stargazer GLS Premium IVT 6-Seater is priced at P1,298,000. This means budget constraints are hardly an issue when it comes to choosing. 

In terms of power, the MG G50 Plus is hands down the better MPV of the two. Its turbocharged engine and seven-speed DCT will run rings around the Stargazer any day of the week. However, in terms of features, interior amenities, and crucially, safety features, the Stargazer takes the lead.

In the end, the choice remains with the buyer, but when comparing the spec sheets side-by-side, the Hyundai Stargazer stands out with its extensive equipment and superior safety features.

Overall Winner: Hyundai Stargazer

After all is said and done, you still can’t go wrong with either of these MPVs. Both of them are loaded with tech and safety features that ensure you and your family can travel safely. Plus, they get more than enough power to add a dash of excitement to your drive. While you’re here, why not check out our comprehensive Car Guide on both these models? Hit “Get Quote,” and dealers around you will send you official quotes in just a matter of minutes!