The MG S5 EV replaces the ZS EV in the company’s UK line-up and is a step change in virtually every aspect.
The new electric compact SUV already looks like a strong value proposition on paper, and at a recent media event, we got an opportunity to see whether it delivers on those promises in the real world, in a global specification. Here’s what we found out:
Design
The MG S5 EV does not have the visual flair of European-styled rivals such as the Skoda Elroq and Renault Scenic E-Tech, but the design is inoffensive and easy to warm to. It looks more like a conventional SUV than many competitors, and that works in its favour.
The shark-inspired nose and the muscular front bumper give the front end a unique appearance without resorting to gimmicks.
The S5 EV measures 4,476 mm in length, 1,849 mm in width, and 1,621 mm in height in SE form or 1,633 mm in Trophy trim. It rides on a 2,730 mm wheelbase. Although it is smaller than the Elroq in every dimension, its more upright stance and straightforward proportions make it appear larger than the spec sheet suggests.
Interior
The interior of the MG S5 EV prioritises usability over visual drama. The design follows a clear form-follows-function approach, as observed in the conventional three-spoke steering wheel, a dedicated instrument cluster, and the retention of physical controls for key functions.
The example we sat in was a Thai-spec model, which uses a 15.6-inch central touchscreen similar to the China-market car. UK-spec versions instead adopt a smaller 12.8-inch display that suits the dashboard better and improves ergonomics.
This change has allowed MG to reposition the row of knobs, rocker switches, and buttons for frequently used functions such as climate control, media, defogging, and the hazard lights from the centre console to higher up on the dashboard, directly below the screen. The arrangement is easier and less distracting to access while driving.
Our experience in the MG S5 EV
At 5’7” tall, getting in and out of the MG S5 EV was easy. In the driver’s seat, I found the back support good and headroom adequate, with roughly five and a half inches of space above our head.
The under-thigh support is acceptable, although a slightly longer seat base would have been welcome. Forward and side visibility are good, which makes the driving position feel confidence-inspiring in everyday use.
In the rear, I had around three inches of headroom, even with the seatback in its most reclined position. Legroom and knee room are generous, helped by the completely flat floor. The seat offers good back support and a natural sitting position.
It is not exceptional in terms of comfort, but there are no obvious shortcomings for regular use. Under-thigh support is again adequate rather than generous.
In terms of amenities, the rear gets a centre armrest with two integrated cupholders. The back of the centre console houses two air vents and a USB Type-C charging port. There are also coat hooks on both B-pillars.
Specifications
The MG S5 EV is available in standard-range and long-range variants in the UK, both with a single motor powering the rear wheels. The former has a 47.1 kWh (net) LFP battery pack, and its motor 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 8.0 seconds and reaches a top speed of 164 km/h (101 mph). As per WLTP metric, it can travel up to 340 kilometres (211 miles) on a single charge.
The long-range variant upgrades to a 62.1 kWh (net) NCM battery pack and a higher-output motor that develops 170 kW (228 bhp) and 350 Nm (258 lb.-ft.) of torque. 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) comes in just 6.3 seconds, but the top speed remains limited to 164 km/h (101 mph). The top configuration offers a WLTP range of up to 480 kilometres (298 miles).
Price
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The MG S5 EV’s prices in the UK fall between GBP 28,745 and GBP 33,745.
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.
