The MG IM5 is the entry point into the brand’s new ‘IM’ range of premium electric cars, which aims to set new benchmarks in areas like performance, charging capability, and comfort in its segment.
Recently, we had a chance to experience the new electric saloon in a global specification, and here’s what we actually found.
Design
The MG IM5 features a GT-like exterior with a low and wide stance. The proportions feel sporty, and elements such as the sculpted bodywork, muscular shoulders, and long, flowing roofline work together effectively.
That said, not every design detail feels convincing. The L-shaped, curved headlamps appear awkward when viewed head-on and feel slightly at odds with the otherwise cohesive surfacing.
At the rear, the slim full-width tail lamp and integrated ducktail spoiler follow a design approach reminiscent of Aston Martin’s DBX and Vantage, though the IM5 puts its own spin on it.
Interior
The interior of the MG IM5 makes extensive use of soft-touch materials, giving it the feel of a premium car positioned between mainstream and luxury segments.
The ultra-wide 26.3-inch free-standing dashboard display is logically split to separate key driving information from infotainment functions. A second 10.5-inch touchscreen sits on the centre console and handles climate control, seat heating, and other vehicle settings, and this dual-screen arrangement immediately reminds us of the Porsche Taycan.
However, for a car that MG is so firmly positioning as a performance-oriented model, ergonomics could have been better. Aside from the turn indicators and windscreen wipers, almost every function is routed through the touchscreens, requiring frequent swiping, menu navigation, and screen interactions.
Our experience in the MG IM5
At 5’7″, entry into the MG IM5 required some care, as my head brushed the cantrail while getting in. Forward visibility was good, while side visibility was partly restricted due to the fast-sloping roofline and a thick C-pillar, which limited rear-diagonal views.
Rear visibility was poor, owing to the steeply raked tailgate and the small rear windscreen. The absence of a digital mirror did little to compensate for this limitation.
In the front, I had around six inches of headroom in my driving position, which should be adequate even for occupants around six feet tall. The seats offered strong back support, helped by electrically adjustable lumbar support, and felt comfortable over time. Under-thigh support was decent, though an extendable thigh cushion or a slightly longer seat base would have been welcome.
In the rear, I had roughly three inches of headroom, suggesting limited comfort for passengers over six feet tall. Back support was good, but legroom was tight, with my legs sitting close under the front seats. Knee room was generous, and under-thigh support was acceptable. Rear passengers get amenities like a fold-down centre armrest with two cup holders, rear AC vents, and a USB Type-C port.
Specifications
The MG IM5 is available in the UK in 75 Standard Range, 100 Long Range, and 100 Performance grades. The base configuration uses only a rear motor, which develops 217 kW (291 bhp) and 450 Nm (331 lb.-ft.) of torque, along with a 73.5 kWh (net) LFP battery pack. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.8 seconds and achieves a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph).
The middle configuration upgrades to a high-spec rear motor that produces 300 kW (402 bhp) and 500 Nm (368 lb.-ft.) of torque and a 96.5 kWh (net) NCM battery pack. It reduces the 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time to 4.9 seconds and increases the top speed to 220 km/h (136 mph).
The top configuration sports motors which generate 553 kW (742 bhp) and 802 Nm (591 lb.-ft.) of torque, and give the car AWD capability. The 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint time further decreases to just 3.2 seconds and the top speed goes up to 268 km/h (166 mph).
The 73.5 kWh supports charging at up 153 kW and delivers a WLTP range of 490 kilometres (304 miles) in the base configuration. The 96.5 kWh battery pack supports charging at up 396 kW, and it allows the IM5 to travel up to 710 kilometres (441 miles) in the middle configuration and 575 kilometres (357 miles) in the top configuration, both as per WLTP.
Price
Also Read: First Look Review: Mazda 6e is stylish, sophisticated but the rear seat isn’t its forte
The MG IM5 costs GBP 39,450 in the 75 Standard Range grade, GBP 44,995 in the 100 Long Range grade, and GBP 48,495 in the 100 Performance grade.
Since 2014, I’ve worked as an international automotive editor, attending global motor shows, industry events, media drives, and tracking the latest developments across the sector, with a particular focus on electrified vehicles.
