Update (November 11, 2024): Entire story updated.
MG has sold well over a million vehicles in overseas markets since its revival in 2007. The ZS model – offered as an EV variant – has played a significant role in reaching this sales milestone, as well as giving the brand a much-needed image makeover. The MG ES5, the successor to the MG ZS EV, is anticipated to build on this success. With sweeping changes, the new model could be more popular than its predecessor, especially in Europe, where demand for electric SUVs is soaring.
Design
The MG ES5 is significantly bigger and more assertive, marking a major departure from the basic styling of the ZS EV. Measuring 4,476 mm in length, 1,849 mm in width, and 1,621 mm in height, respectively, it is 153 mm longer, 40 mm wider, and up to 28 mm lower. Its wheelbase, at 2,730 mm, is 149 mm longer.
The split headlights, wider air intakes, and aggressive front bumper give it a more fierce look. On the sides, the flush roof rails, curvier glasshouse, and bigger (18-inch) wheels complete its more sophisticated appearance. At the back, the sleek and super-wide tail lamps meet the brand logo in the centre and emphasize the high-tech nature of the vehicle.
Interior
The MG ES5 has a modern, uncluttered interior that wraps around the driver and passengers, giving them a cosy and secure feeling. The elegantly designed dashboard, the simple door panels, the three-spoke steering wheel with regular physical controls, and the spacious centre console make it perfect for customers who want a no-frills and practical interior.
MG equips the ES5 with features like a 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster, a 15.6-inch 2.5K touchscreen infotainment system, a panoramic sunroof, electric window sunshades, three USB-C ports, and a six-speaker sound system. Both the front seats feature power adjustment and heating, and on the driver’s seat, the comfort functions include ventilation as well. There’s 462 liters of cargo space in the electric SUV, and folding its rear seat increases this capacity to 1,423 liters.
Specifications
The MG ES5 shares the Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) with the MG4 EV. This is a big departure from the ZS EV, which is a conversion of an ICE model. MSP is a new rear-wheel drive platform SAIC has developed exclusively for EVs, and it allows an AWD drivetrain layout as well, with an additional motor mounted on the front axle. It is flexible and suitable for wheelbases between 2,650 and 3,100 mm.
MG offers the ES5 with a 49.1 kWh LFP battery pack and also a 62.2 kWH LFP battery pack. Charging them from 30 to 80% through a fast charger takes 26 minutes and 21 minutes, respectively. Customers can fully charge them through a slow charger in 8.5 hours and 11.5 hours, respectively.
According to CLTC, the ES5 can travel 425 km (264 miles) with the 49.1 kWh battery pack and up to 525 km (326 miles) with the 62.2 kWh battery pack. V2L bidirectional charging capability is standard across the range, allowing customers to offload power at up to 6.6 kW.
The ES5 is a RWD model with only one motor that produces 125 kW (168 bhp) and 250 Nm (184 lb.-ft.) of torque. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in 7.7 seconds if equipped with the 49.1 kWh battery pack or 7.9 seconds if equipped with the 62.2 kWh battery pack.
Price & Release Date
MG has launched the ES5 in China for a starting price of just CNY 116,900 (GBP 12,600). In the UK, it could introduce the ZS EV successor sometime in early 2025, but for a much higher price of around GBP 30,000.
TopElectricSUV says
The MG ES5 EV is bolder, more digitalized, and safer than the ZS EV. As a dedicated EV, it offers significant performance, efficiency, and space improvements. Expected to be priced around GBP 30,000, it could be an attractive choice for electric SUV buyers seeking a practical vehicle and might pose a difficult challenge to competing Korean and European models.
MG ES5 FAQs
What is the MG ES5’s release date?
The MG ES5 could begin reaching UK dealers in early 2025.
What will be the MG ES5 price?
The MG ES5 is expected to start at around GBP 30,000.
Which models will be MG ES5 rivals?
The MG ES5 will rival the likes of the Hyundai Kona Electric, Vauxhall Mokka-e & Kia Niro EV.
Featured Image Source: SAIC
I got my Master’s in Business Management & Administration and have been an International Automotive News Editor since 2014. I’ve traveled to global motor shows and automotive events, driven various types of vehicles, and focused on hybrid and electric cars in the last 4 years.
