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MG5 EV — UK review

MG5 EV Review (2017–)

Compact Electric Estate (launched 2017 in China; UK debut 2020)

MG UK review Since 2017 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

1. Vehicle Overview

The MG5 EV is one of the few fully electric estate cars on the market, offering spacious practicality, family-friendly usability, and electric efficiency at an affordable price. Originally launched in China in 2017, the model reached the UK and European markets in 2020, quickly becoming a hit among families, business fleets, and private buyers who wanted an EV that’s both functional and affordable.

For 2025, the MG5 EV continues in its updated form (facelifted in 2022) with improved range, styling, and equipment, maintaining its reputation as a no-nonsense electric workhorse with genuine everyday appeal.

2. Key Specifications

SpecificationDetail
PowertrainSingle electric motor (front-mounted)
Battery Capacity61 kWh usable lithium-ion
Power / Torque156 hp / 280 Nm
TransmissionSingle-speed automatic
DrivetrainFront-wheel drive (FWD)
0–100 km/h7.7 seconds
Top Speed185 km/h
Range (WLTP)403 km (250 miles)
Charging (DC Fast)Up to 87 kW (10–80% in 35 min)
Charging (AC)11 kW 3-phase / 7 kW single-phase
Dimensions (L x W x H)4,600 x 1,818 x 1,543 mm
Boot Capacity479 L (up to 1,367 L with seats folded)
Kerb Weight1,570 kg

3. Exterior Design

The MG5 EV received a significant facelift in 2022 that continues through 2025, bringing a much more modern and European look.

Design highlights include

Closed front grille with slim LED headlights and integrated DRLs

Sharper front bumper with chrome or black detailing

Aerodynamic silhouette with smooth lines for reduced drag

LED taillights and a more sculpted tailgate

16-inch or 17-inch alloy wheels depending on trim

While understated, the MG5’s clean, functional design communicates practicality and maturity, appealing to both private and fleet buyers.

4. Interior, Comfort & Materials

Inside, the MG5 EV impresses with solid build quality and generous space. The cabin is simple but comfortable, prioritizing usability and practicality.

Highlights include

10.25-inch central touchscreen infotainment system

7-inch digital driver display

Soft-touch dashboard materials on higher trims

Heated front seats and leather-style upholstery (Trophy trim)

Dual-zone climate control

Ample rear legroom and wide-opening rear doors

The cabin feels more refined than its price suggests, making long journeys pleasant and fuss-free.

5. Features & Infotainment

The 2025 MG5 features MG’s latest iSMART infotainment system:

10.25-inch touchscreen display

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

Bluetooth and USB connectivity

Voice command and navigation with live traffic data

Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates

Rear parking camera and sensors (standard)

Optional 360° camera on Trophy trim

While not as high-tech as premium EVs, the MG5 offers everything most drivers need, presented clearly and intuitively.

6. Safety & Ratings

The MG5 EV comes equipped with the MG Pilot safety suite, providing comprehensive driver-assistance technology:

Adaptive Cruise Control

Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning

Traffic Jam Assist

Intelligent Speed Limit Assist

Forward Collision Warning with AEB

Driver Attention Alert

Blind Spot Detection (Trophy trim)

The pre-facelift model scored five stars under China NCAP, and European versions are equipped to meet current EU safety standards, offering reassuring protection for families and commuters alike.

7. Driving Performance

The MG5 isn’t a sports car — it’s designed for comfort, stability, and real-world usability. The 156 hp electric motor delivers smooth acceleration with instant torque, and the low-mounted battery ensures excellent balance.

Highlights include

Well-damped suspension for comfort over bumps

Light steering ideal for urban driving

Eco, Normal, and Sport modes for adaptable response

Regenerative braking with three levels for customizable energy recovery

It feels composed on the motorway, quiet in the city, and easy to maneuver — exactly what a family EV estate should be.

8. Fuel Efficiency / EV Range

The MG5’s 61 kWh battery provides up to 403 km WLTP (250 miles) on a single charge.

Charging times

87 kW DC fast charge: 10–80% in ~35 minutes

11 kW AC (3-phase): 0–100% in ~6.5 hours

7 kW AC (home wallbox): ~8.5 hours

Real-world efficiency is around 15–17 kWh/100 km, making the MG5 one of the most efficient EV estates on the market.

9. Practicality & Everyday Usability

This is where the MG5 truly shines — it’s one of the most practical EVs available:

Boot capacity479 L (up to 1,367 L seats folded)

Flat loading floor and low lip for easy cargo handling

Roof rails for additional storage options

Spacious cabin for five adults

Optional tow bar for light towing (up to 500 kg)

For families, taxi operators, or tradespeople, the MG5 offers EV practicality unmatched in its price range.

10. Warranty & Maintenance

MG’s industry-leading warranty continues to apply

7-year / 80,000-mile warranty (including battery and motor)

Service intervalsEvery 12 months or 15,000 miles

Affordable MG Service Plans available through dealers

This long warranty and low running cost make the MG5 one of the most affordable EVs to own long-term.

11. Price & Value for Money

Approximate pricing (UK & Europe, 2025)

MG5 EV SE Long Range£30,000 (€34,000)
MG5 EV Trophy Long Range£32,000 (€36,000)

Considering its range, practicality, and equipment, the MG5 undercuts rivals by thousands, offering family-sized EV motoring at compact-car pricing.

12. Comparison with Rivals

ModelBody StyleRange (WLTP)Boot SpacePrice (approx.)
MG5 EV Long RangeEstate403 km479–1,367 L£30,000
Kia Niro EVSUV460 km475 L£37,000
Renault Mégane E-TechHatchback450 km440 L£36,000
VW ID.3 ProHatchback429 km385 L£37,000
BYD DolphinHatchback427 km345 L£30,000

The MG5 stands alone as a true electric estate, offering unmatched cargo flexibility for its price.

13. Pros & Cons

Pros

Excellent value for a long-range EV

Huge boot and versatile estate layout

Comfortable, quiet ride

Long 7-year warranty

Low running costs and efficient drivetrain

Cons

Conservative styling

Interior quality below premium rivals

No all-wheel-drive or performance variant

Not the most engaging to drive

14. Overall Rating

4.5 / 5

15. Final Verdict

The 2025 MG5 EV remains a standout in the electric market — the only affordable long-range estate car that combines genuine family practicality with EV efficiency. Its blend of comfort, space, and simplicity makes it an ideal choice for families, fleet drivers, or anyone needing an electric car that works hard and costs little to run.

It’s not flashy, but it’s functional, efficient, and excellent value — the MG5 EV is the unsung hero of electric motoring.

16. Affiliate CTA

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Pros & cons

Pros
  • Smooth and quiet electric driving character
  • Potentially low home-charging costs for regular commuters
  • Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
  • Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
Cons
  • Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
  • Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
  • Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
  • Public charging costs and winter range need checking before purchase

Final verdict

True Motion Auto verdict

The MG5 EV-compact electric estate (2017 in china uk from 2020) is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.

Buyer checkpoints

Buyer checkpointTrue Motion Auto view
Best forDrivers wanting quiet electric running and low local emissions.
Body styleEstate Car
Powertrain focusElectric
UK ownership noteCheck insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying.
VerdictWorth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the MG5 EV-compact electric estate (2017 in china uk from 2020) good for UK roads?
Yes, provided the trim and wheel size suit your roads. Always test the car on rough urban surfaces as well as a faster road.
Should I buy new or used?
New can make sense with strong finance support and full warranty. Used can be better value if depreciation has already taken effect.
What should I check before ordering?
Check live UK pricing, standard equipment, insurance group, VED, servicing costs, delivery times and warranty terms.
Is it suitable for families?
That depends on rear-seat access, boot shape and child-seat fit. Test those items in person rather than relying only on figures.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.