MG GT Engine Options Explained: Which Powertrain Suits UAE Buyers Best?

Dubai: MG has detailed the two powertrains for the GT sedan in the UAE. You can pick a 1.5-litre petrol with a CVT or a 1.5-litre turbo with a dual-clutch gearbox (DCT). Both drive the front wheels. 

This news explains what each setup delivers, how the figures compare and who each one suits. If you want the design story first, our look at the MG GT inside and out covers the fastback shape and the fighter jet cabin.

Two Engines, One Front-Wheel-Drive Layout

The GT comes in three trims. The 1.5L COM uses the non-turbo engine. The 1.5T COM and 1.5T LUX share the turbo. Peak torque almost doubles between the two. That gap shapes how each car feels day to day.

Spec	1.5L (COM)	1.5T (COM, LUX)
Engine	1.5L petrol	1.5L turbo petrol
Displacement	1,498 cc	1,490 cc
Power	109 hp (81 kW) at 6,000 rpm	168 hp (125 kW) at 5,600 rpm
Torque	140 Nm at 4,500 rpm	275 Nm at 2,500-4,000 rpm
Gearbox	Intelligent CVT	Next-Gen MEGA Tech DCT
Drive	Front-wheel drive	Front-wheel drive

1.5L MEGA Tech Engine with Intelligent CVT

MG positions this one for efficiency. The direct-injection engine makes 109 hp and 140 Nm. The CVT keeps the drive smooth and composed. It suits relaxed commuting more than hard overtaking.

• Output: 109 hp, with torque arriving at 4,500 rpm
• Gearbox: Intelligent 1.5 CVT for easy, fuel-efficient driving
• Weight: 1,260 kg, the lightest GT
• Fuel tank: 45 litres

1.5T MEGA Tech Engine with Next-Gen DCT

The turbo makes 168 hp and 275 Nm. MG says its ePower Control electronic turbo technology shortens response time. The torque is available from 2,500 to 4,000 rpm. That means strong pull at the speeds most of us actually drive.

• Output: 168 hp, about 59 hp more than the 1.5L
• Gearbox: Next-Gen MEGA Tech DCT for smooth shifts with a sporty feel
• Weight: 1,315 kg
• Fuel tank: 50 litres

Weight, Tyres and Chassis Setup

The engine choice changes the hardware around it too. The turbo trims add 55 kg, a bigger tank and larger wheels. Every GT shares the same body, which measures 4,715 mm long, 1,842 mm wide and 1,473 mm tall.

 If you are cross-checking trims, our MG car prices in UAE 2026 guide lists the full lineup.

Detail	1.5L (COM)	1.5T (COM, LUX)
Wheels	16-inch alloy	17-inch alloy
Tyres	205/55R16	215/50R17
Suspension	McPherson front, torsion beam rear	McPherson front, torsion beam rear
Brakes	Front and rear discs	Front and rear discs
Wheelbase	2,680 mm	2,680 mm

Safety Kit That Comes With Each Powertrain

All trims get ESP, hill-hold control, Autohold, TPMS and an electric parking brake. The turbo trims add side and curtain airbags for six in total. The 1.5T LUX adds the driver aids.

• Adaptive Cruise Control and Autonomous Emergency Braking (LUX only)
• Emergency Lane Keep Assist and Traffic Jam Assist (LUX only)
• Intelligent Headlight Control (LUX only)
• ISOFIX child-seat anchors on every trim

What This Means for UAE Buyers

The 1.5L suits buyers who want a stylish sedan for short commutes and a modest running bill. On paper, the turbo is the better buy. The extra torque and the six airbags are worth the step up. MG also backs the GT with a 6-year, 200,000 km warranty (terms apply). If you are still comparing sedans, our list of the best sedans under AED 80,000 shows how the GT stacks up.

Also Read: MG GT Inside and Out: Fastback Looks, a Fighter-Jet Cabin and a Price That Won't Sting