Production Models

Maxus Philippines has brought in the G50, a compact 8-seater MPV, to compete in a segment made up mostly of seven-seaters.

The G50 arrived in variants, the top-end 1.5 Premium, the middle-priced 1.5 Elite, and the 1.5 Pro.

At 4,825 millimeters long, 1,825mm wide, and 1,800mm tall with roof rails, and 1,778mm without, the G50 in size, basic box and bonnet configuration, design and styling is your classic modern compact multipurpose vehicle.

Focusing on the Premium variant that we have, modern touches include the sharp creases, swept back LED headlights in the Premium variant, daylight running lights, rear spoiler, rear windows defogger, power adjustable side mirrors, and bespoke 17-inch alloy wheels.

A largish grille with horizontal slats and the Maxus name, all in chrome lend the G50 a strong presence on the road.

The Premium gets a panoramic sunroof as well as roof rails.

Maxus has also filled the G50 variants it brought here with lots of the smart technologies for convenience, performance and safety.

All three variants have keyless entry with push start system.

Inside the G50 1.5 Premium is a roomy and comfortable cabin for driver and seven passengers with leather seats.

The driver gets 6-way power adjustable seats, the front seat passenger gets 4-way power adjustable seat.

The second row seat for three, is split 60:40, slides and reclines, and comes with center armrest, and easy entry function into the third row seat.

The third row seat for three also splits 60:40 and can be folded flat for more luggage room.

The Premium variant comes with added luxury seatback table.

All variants share a multifunction steering wheel with controls for such things as the audio system as well as cruise control.

The G50 Premium, as well as the Elite, perhaps has the largest touchscreen for the infotainment system in its segment, a 12.3-inch display. The system features two USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and six speakers. Only the Premium variant has mobile wireless charging.

There's also an airconditioning system with automatic controls and rear aircon vents.

Another cool feature in the Premium is the power tailgate.

MPVs need to have a powertrain that provides a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, as well as a comfortable and stable ride.

Underneath the hood of the G50 is 1490cc 4-cylinder turbocharged and intercooled gasoline engine that generates 169 Ps at 5500 revolutions per minute and 250 Newton-meters of torque from 1700 to 4300 rpm.

The engine is mated to a 7-speed dual clutch automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. Stopping power comes from a brake system that uses solid discs on all wheels.

The G50 suspension system features front Independent MacPherson struts and torsion beams in the rear.

Maxus has installed active and passive safety features in the G50 with the Premium getting more than the Elite and the Pro.

All G50 variants come with driver and front passenger airbags, with the Premium getting additional front side airbags, 3-point seatbelts for eight, ISOFIX anchors.

All three also have Electronic Parking Brake with Autohold, Emergency Brake Assist, Hill Hold Control, Electronic Stabilization Program, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and Immobilizer.

Parking sensors and reverse camera are standard in G50 variants. But only the Premium and the Elite have 360-degree views and both front and rear sensors.

The G50 ticks off all the boxes that define a compact MPV and Maxus goes the extra mile with more features to make the total package more appealing.

An eight-seater with a lot of trendy features, the G50 is worth a look and test drive for those seeking to buy a compact MPV.