TRIED AND TESTED
MGS5 EV
The MG electric vehicle portfolio expands with a new model in a new sector for the company. John Challen gets behind the wheel
TRIED AND TESTED
MGS5 EV
The MG electric vehicle portfolio expands with a new model in a new sector for the company. John Challen gets behind the wheel
MG is rightly proud of its recent track record when it comes to electric vehicles. In the past couple of years, not only has it enjoyed success with the volume-selling MG4 EV, but it has also gained a lot of admirers with the two-seat Cyberster BEV. Those two models – along with the legacy MG5 EV and MG ZS EV – have helped the company sell 86,500 EVs since 2019, an achievement only bettered by three other brands during that period. EVs now account for nearly one-third of all MG sales, so the arrival of a B-segment contender has come at a fantastic time.
The MGS5 EV (the replacement for the MG ZS EV) is the brand’s first new volume BEV since 2022 and features a fresh look inside and out, including Cyberster-inspired split grille and side air intakes at the front. Other exterior updates include silver finish roof bars, new alloys and – at the rear – a full-width light bar. Inside, drivers get a new dual-screen layout – a 12.8-inch central HD touchscreen and a 10.25-inch driver display – and a full-length centre console. Thankfully, for many drivers (and some passengers), physical buttons and dials live on in the MGS5 EV, for the climate controls. There are also upgraded materials deployed throughout the cabin that are softer to the touch – such as the two-tone upholstery – but also durable.
The MGS5 EV has been built around five key attributes: safe; advanced; versatile; efficient and dynamic. For the first of those areas, the car offers seven airbags and widespread (77%) use of high-strength steel (47% of which is ultra-high-strength steel). Then there’s the latest version of MG Pilot, with 14 different ADAS and a new front-view camera helping to enhance detection range up to 250m. Uprated braking technology from Continental helps reduce stopping distances, too. Advanced refers to the aforementioned dual-screen setup and wireless smartphone connectivity, but also iSmart, the MG app that offers a range of services and conveniences.
According to MG, the new EV has 33 storage and practicality features to tick the ‘versatility’ box, while the boot space is up there with the best in the segment, offering 453 litres and up to 1,441 litres when the rear seats are folded. Meanwhile, the 110mm ultra-thin battery helps to maximise cabin space and makes the car a more comfortable place for four adults.
Efficiency-wise, the MGS5 EV comes with two battery options: 49kWh and 64kWh packs in the standard- and long-range models respectively. Each version offers five driving modes, four levels of regeneration (including one-pedal mode) and charging speeds up to 139kW (120kW for the 49kWh battery). Drivers can expect to cover nearly 300 miles in the long-range models, with cars powered by the smaller battery providing up to 211 miles. Finally, dynamically, the MGS5 is the second MG model to be built on the company’s Modular Scalable Platform that affords the car a lower centre of gravity and maximises efficiency thanks to the lightweight chassis. Performance-wise, the new MG boasts 228hp and 350Nm of torque, enough to power it to 62mph from a standstill in 6.3 seconds.
Which model is right for you?
Two trim levels and three variants are offered: the SE comes in standard- and long-range forms, while the flagship Trophy is available in long-range guise only.
Regardless of battery size, the SE (priced from £29,495) comes equipped with 17-inch wheels, LED headlights, rear parking camera, dual-screen setup, navigation and wireless smartphone connectivity. Drivers also benefit from iSmart, a four-speaker audio system, silver roof rails and MG Pilot as standard.
Step up to the Trophy (from £33,495) and there are larger (18-inch) wheels, rear privacy glass, 360° camera system, heated steering wheel and front seats, and rain-sensing wipers. A smart tailgate, an upgraded (six-speaker) audio system and wireless phone charger is also part of the package.
SE
Trophy
EXPERIENCE
MGS5 EV
VERDICT
MG has gained a lot of love for its value-for-money approach to its cars, especially with the EVs. The MGS5 EV takes that to a new level, where the upgraded interior really makes a big difference and puts it on a par with many of its competitors. Coming from a popular fleet brand, the MGS5 EV is likely to find favour with business drivers – and the decent spec, low running costs and interior space are just three reasons why it will be on many shortlists.
