MG5 2022 – Review: The electric station wagon that threatens SUVs

Can the Chinese MG5 electric wagon with its anonymous style distract you from the best electric SUVs? It all depends on the final bill…

Do you find that modern MGs no longer resemble the charming English sports cars of the last century? That’s the least we can say. Because everything changed after the British automaker was acquired by the Chinese automotive giant SAIC in 2007. The brand, once known for its enthusiast-oriented models, now only produces electrified vehicles aimed at families and at a tight budget.

Following the small electric SUV ZS, the hybrid family SUV EHS, and the electric family SUV Marvel R, MG is now launching a zero-emission wagon. Interestingly, its approach oddly contrasts with current market trends.

Introduction, style, space: 3/5
As bland as it is generous inside

While everyone is now dreaming of SUVs, this slightly raised wagon with its anonymous style will clearly turn no heads. It would perfectly embody the ideal taxi (which is convenient, as MG aims to make it a must-have vehicle among transport professionals).

But if you believe in the concept of inner beauty, you might fall under the spell of this car. Despite its bland design, it bends over backwards to satisfy its occupants. With its 4.60 meters length, the MG5 surpasses compact SUVs like the Kia e-Niro or the Peugeot e-2008 in trunk capacity (479 liters or 1367 liters in total with the rear seat folded). It also provides generous rear space despite a somewhat high seating position.

Above all, it does not fall into pure low-cost. Its interior presentation matches most mainstream brands, with a rather attractive dashboard layout and finishes that are anything but subpar (you’ll just need to get accustomed to ergonomics that aren’t particularly intuitive, especially regarding climate controls). Imagine a Fiat Tipo station wagon with a more modern interior and a 100% electric motor. Note also that the car can tow trailers up to 500 kilos.

Performance and driving of the MG5: 3/5
Comfortable and sufficiently lively

Lacking adaptive damping, the MG5 shows excellent suspension softness on our test roads in southern France. As usual with an electric vehicle, this softness pairs well with a punchy motor capable of overtaking confidently.

Notably, the version with smaller base batteries (50.3 kWh with LFP technology) has a more powerful engine (177 horsepower) than our test model equipped with larger 61.1 kWh batteries (156 horsepower). However, this power difference does not affect performance, with both versions claimed to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.3 seconds.

With Eco, Comfort, and Sport modes, the MG5 isn’t embarrassing when pushed on backroads. But don’t expect real driving pleasure from this friendly Chinese wagon. It maintains comfort and reassuring handling rather than sporty driving sensations.

Battery, range, and charging of the MG5: 4/5
Moderate consumption and adequate battery capacity

The standard version is equipped with a 50.3 kWh battery, which theoretically offers a range of 320 km according to WLTP standards. Our test model had the 61.1 kWh battery (WLTP range of 400 km), with a measured consumption of 15.8 kWh/100 km over a route mainly consisting of country roads.

These relatively favorable conditions allow for an estimated range of just under 400 km. And this is without particularly economical driving, even with the air conditioning running full blast (bright sunshine and 26 degrees outside). Consumption inevitably rises above 18 kWh/100 km at highway speeds. Nonetheless, the car’s modest weight (1,562 kg versus 2 tons for a typical family electric SUV) and its less energy-intensive aerodynamics limit the impact.

Regarding charging, the MG5 supports up to 87 kW in DC fast charging with its larger batteries. According to MG, it takes about 30 minutes to go from 10% to 80% charge on a fast charger (the same applies for the smaller battery version). Otherwise, a full charge takes nearly 4 hours with 11 kW three-phase AC, 30 hours on a domestic socket, and 9.5 hours on a wallbox.

Equipment, tech, safety, connectivity: 5/5
Everything is included

The standard equipment of the MG5 already impresses in its basic “Comfort” finish. Climate control, full smartphone connectivity (Android Auto & Apple CarPlay), rearview camera, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist… The only minor detail is the absence of a Type 2 Mode 2 cable for 220-volt outlets. This is available as an option (€268), unlike the wallbox cable.

For an additional €1,500, the “Luxury” trim adds 17-inch wheels, leatherette seats instead of fabric, automatic climate control, an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, and 360-degree cameras around the vehicle. Nothing is really missing.

And like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, the MG5 can be used as a true power generator thanks to V2L compatibility. Once activated, this feature allows powering household appliances through a standard extension cord plugged into its socket. Camping enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate this feature.

Assessment and price of the MG5: 15/20
No need for an SUV

With a price difference of €3,000 between the small and large batteries, the MG5 in Comfort trim with large batteries costs €35,490 (after €29,490 ecological bonus deduction). Just €200 more than a high-end small-battery Renault ZOE, which is less well equipped, smaller, and less spacious.

By comparison, a Kia e-Niro 64 kWh starts at €43,690 before bonus, and a less powerful Peugeot e-2008 with lower autonomy costs €38,950. If that’s still too expensive, the MG5 with small batteries is priced at €32,490. It’s clear that the value-to-price ratio of these two only family electric wagons on the market speaks for itself, especially when the other is a Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo with a starting price of €90,317.

Beyond subjective and superficial criteria, it’s hard to overlook the MG5 when searching for a budget-friendly family EV. However, most buyers will likely prefer the MG ZS—another electric SUV with similar aggressive pricing but less spacious…

Spec sheet of the MG5 electric 2022 from the test

Photo gallery of the MG5 electric test drive

Also read: Mini Cooper SE 2022 – Review: a fine-tuning electric adaptation