MG continues its assault on the budget end of the car market with the addition of a new sedan, which the manufacturer has rather confidently named the GT.
It’s not the first car in history to be referred to by that moniker, but it’s a name that hasn’t traditionally been applied to anything that doesn’t fairly rip along with zest and gusto. MG describes the vehicle as a “rebellious sports sedan”, so it isn’t underselling the capabilities of the new arrival.
It is also, the carmaker says, inspired by the classic MGB sports car, which should get a few punters who are into their classic motoring salivating a little.
Back to the price though – a base model MG GT starts at $13,310, while a turbocharged option comes in at $15,440.
The quickest glance online will reveal a whole host of cars with similar specifications which have a price tag with at least 50 per cent added onto it. And that could easily double or treble if we’re talking sedans produced by well-established manufacturers whose models dip their toes into what might be described as the luxury end of the spectrum.
So, what do you get for your money with MG?
Well, the MG GT is powered by a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, which will get the vehicle to 100 kilometres per hour in eight seconds.
Its most notable external feature is what MG refers to as a “digital flaming grille”, while the rear features a slightly upturned ducktail, which adds to an already generally sporty look.
An end-to-end chrome line runs along the shoulder of the car, and customers can choose flashy tomahawk alloy wheels, complete with Michelin tyres, as an add-on.
Inside, there are contrasting red or black upholstery options, and you get a 10-inch touchscreen included as standard. The MG GT also comes with a range of driver aids, including stability control, rear reversing radar, and a 360º monitoring system.
The car is in MG showrooms now.
Ten tax points to be aware of in 2026
1. Domestic VAT refund amendments: request your refund within five years
If a business does not apply for the refund on time, they lose their credit.
2. E-invoicing in the UAE
Businesses should continue preparing for the implementation of e-invoicing in the UAE, with 2026 a preparation and transition period ahead of phased mandatory adoption.
3. More tax audits
Tax authorities are increasingly using data already available across multiple filings to identify audit risks.
4. More beneficial VAT and excise tax penalty regime
Tax disputes are expected to become more frequent and more structured, with clearer administrative objection and appeal processes. The UAE has adopted a new penalty regime for VAT and excise disputes, which now mirrors the penalty regime for corporate tax.
5. Greater emphasis on statutory audit
There is a greater need for the accuracy of financial statements. The International Financial Reporting Standards standards need to be strictly adhered to and, as a result, the quality of the audits will need to increase.
6. Further transfer pricing enforcement
Transfer pricing enforcement, which refers to the practice of establishing prices for internal transactions between related entities, is expected to broaden in scope. The UAE will shortly open the possibility to negotiate advance pricing agreements, or essentially rulings for transfer pricing purposes.
7. Limited time periods for audits
Recent amendments also introduce a default five-year limitation period for tax audits and assessments, subject to specific statutory exceptions. While the standard audit and assessment period is five years, this may be extended to up to 15 years in cases involving fraud or tax evasion.
8. Pillar 2 implementation
Many multinational groups will begin to feel the practical effect of the Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax (DMTT), the UAE's implementation of the OECD’s global minimum tax under Pillar 2. While the rules apply for financial years starting on or after January 1, 2025, it is 2026 that marks the transition to an operational phase.
9. Reduced compliance obligations for imported goods and services
Businesses that apply the reverse-charge mechanism for VAT purposes in the UAE may benefit from reduced compliance obligations.
10. Substance and CbC reporting focus
Tax authorities are expected to continue strengthening the enforcement of economic substance and Country-by-Country (CbC) reporting frameworks. In the UAE, these regimes are increasingly being used as risk-assessment tools, providing tax authorities with a comprehensive view of multinational groups’ global footprints and enabling them to assess whether profits are aligned with real economic activity.
Contributed by Thomas Vanhee and Hend Rashwan, Aurifer
The Brutalist
Director: Brady Corbet
Stars: Adrien Brody, Felicity Jones, Guy Pearce, Joe Alwyn
Rating: 3.5/5
Race card
5pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (Turf) 1,600m
5.30pm: Handicap (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,600m
6pm: Arabian Triple Crown Round-1 Listed (PA) Dh230,000 (T) 1,600m
6.30pm: Wathba Stallions Cup Handicap (PA) Dh70,000 (T) 1,400m
7pm: Maiden (PA) Dh80,000 (T) 1,200m
7.30pm: Handicap (TB) Dh100,000 (T) 2,400m
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