MG MG3 vs Skoda Fabia
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular Hatchbacks compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The MG MG3 starts from $20,990 before on-road costs, while the Skoda Fabia opens at $27,990. That makes the MG MG3 the more affordable entry point by $7,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $23,089 and $30,789 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
The Skoda Fabia holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 4 stars for the MG MG3. Adult occupant protection scored 74% for the MG MG3 and 85% for the Skoda Fabia.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Skoda Fabia packs more ADAS features with 6 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 5 in the MG MG3.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the MG MG3 and 6 in the Skoda Fabia.
Feature Showdown
The MG MG3 features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the Skoda Fabia gets a 9.2-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG MG3 stands out with power tailgate that you will not find on the Skoda Fabia. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MG MG3 uses a Petrol producing 81kW and 142Nm of torque, sent through a cvt to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.8 seconds.
The Skoda Fabia responds with a Petrol making 85kW and 200Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 9.5 seconds.
The Skoda Fabia has the clear power advantage at 85kW vs 81kW. In the real-world sprint, the Skoda Fabia is 1.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG MG3 measures 4,113mm long on a 2,570mm wheelbase, 5mm longer than the Skoda Fabia at 4,108mm (2,564mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG MG3 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 293L in the MG MG3 and 380L in the Skoda Fabia, giving the Skoda Fabia a 87L advantage.
For towing, the Skoda Fabia leads with a 750kg braked capacity vs 750kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.2m to 10.2m
Based on 10.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 10.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,710/year for the MG MG3 and $1,511/year for the Skoda Fabia. That is a $199 annual difference in favour of the Skoda Fabia.
Estimated annual total: $1,710 (MG MG3) vs $1,511 (Skoda Fabia). The Skoda Fabia saves you roughly $199 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG MG3) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Skoda Fabia). The MG MG3 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG MG3 if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Skoda Fabia if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Skoda's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Skoda Fabia takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The Skoda Fabia will save you roughly $199 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Skoda Fabia has a clear edge. The MG MG3 adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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