MG Cyberster: A Stylish Electric Roadster with Compromises

The MG Cyberster’s primary appeal is its head-turning design: scissor doors, sharp lines, and a low-slung roadster silhouette. As an EV, it offers instant torque, making acceleration feel lively off the line. The fabric roof operates smoothly at low speeds, enabling quick open-air enjoyment. Rear-wheel drive gives it a playful character, and the battery placement keeps the centre of gravity low, aiding stability. It’s also attractively positioned for those wanting an electric convertible without premium brand costs.

The Cyberster’s sporty focus brings notable compromises. Legroom and storage are tight – the shallow boot barely holds a weekend bag, and cabin cubby space is minimal. Range is adequate for daily commutes but falls short of many EVs for longer trips, and charging speeds are competitive but not class-leading. The ride is firm, even on adaptive dampers, transmitting road imperfections clearly; on poor surfaces it can feel jittery. Interior materials, while styled sportily, include hard plastics that detract from the premium feel its looks suggest.

In daily use, the Cyberster is a mixed bag. The low seating position and high sills make entry/exit tricky, especially with the roof up. Forward visibility is good, but rearward vision is poor due to a small rear window. The suspension is stiff, so potholes and bumps are felt prominently. Wind noise at highway speeds is noticeable with the roof up, and with the roof down, turbulence is high unless windows are raised. Seats are supportive for short journeys but lack lumbar adjustment, causing fatigue on longer drives. The air conditioning and heater work effectively, but the small cabin heats up quickly in direct sun.

Practicality is the Cyberster’s weakest area. There is no frunk, and the boot holds roughly the space of a carry-on suitcase. Cabin storage includes a small glovebox, shallow door bins, and a phone slot – but no dedicated place for sunglasses. Rear seats are nonexistent, so this is strictly a two-passenger car. The technology interface relies on a trio of screens: a driver display, central infotainment, and a third screen for the passenger. The system is reasonably responsive but has occasional lag and menu complexity. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard. Voice control works for basic commands but struggles with nuance. Safety kit includes typical assists (AEB, lane-keep), but lane-keep can be intrusive on winding roads.

Prospective owners should consider several potential issues. Build quality has been inconsistent: early examples have reported panel gaps, creaking trim, and roof mechanism glitches. The scissor doors require more clearance than conventional doors, making parking in tight spaces awkward. The battery warranty is long, but real-world degradation in warm climates is yet to be proven. Service network for a niche EV convertible is thin outside major cities, so check local support. Insurance costs may be higher due to the model’s sports car classification. Some owners have noted infotainment freezing and connectivity drops requiring dealer updates.

Shortlist the Cyberster if you value standout styling, enjoy weekend driving without much luggage, and want an EV convertible that feels different from the norm. It suits buyers who prioritise visual impact and open-air fun over refinement and practicality – for example, as a second car. Avoid it if you need daily driving comfort, have a long commute, regularly carry more than a small bag, or expect a premium interior. Families, taller drivers (limited headroom), and anyone living where roads are rough should look elsewhere. Also avoid if you’re sensitive to wind noise or want a polished infotainment experience.