MG S5 EV delivers up to 298 miles of range, a 12.8″ touchscreen, rear‑wheel drive and seven‑year warranty—all for under £30K. A true value leader.
The MG S5 EV arrives as a fresh contender in the fast-evolving electric crossover landscape, promising everyday practicality and surprising sophistication—all while keeping costs in check. Tasked with replacing the outgoing MG ZS electric, the S5 EV leverages the acclaimed platform of the MG4 to deliver one of the most competitive packages in its segment.
MG S5 EV: Pricing & Variants: Options That Make Sense
MG’s new crossover offers four clear-cut choices, all loaded with value:
- Excite (49 kWh): ~$40,000
- Essence (49 kWh): ~$43,000
- Excite (62 kWh): ~$45,000
- Essence (62 kWh): ~$48,000
Options are refreshingly simple: premium paint ($700, except white) and a free swap to a white interior.
Design & Exterior: Accessible Style
The S5 EV sidesteps the polarizing design cues of its stablemates and opts for a smart, universally appealing shape:
- Dimensions: 4.4 m long, 2.7 m wheelbase
- Tailgate: Electric (Essence), with adjustable opening height
- Wheels: 18-inch alloys on top trims (mixed opinions)
- Frunk: None (no front trunk storage)
- Visuals: Described as “respectable,” if a little generic in certain colors
Interior & Features: Premium Feel, Pragmatic Choices
Step inside, and the S5 EV exceeds expectations for its price:
- Seating: Heated front seats (driver is power adjustable), with durable vinyl/fabric upholstery
- Steering Wheel: Real leather, heated for comfort
- Panoramic Sunroof: Standard, with manual blind
- Infotainment: 12.8-inch central touchscreen, highly customizable but can be dim in some lighting; 10.25-inch digital cluster (functional, but not dynamic)
- Convenience:
- Wireless phone charging
- Dual USB-C ports, 12V socket, ample storage
- No glove box, but radiant knee warmer
- Climate Control: Dedicated physical panel for fuss-free use
- Ergonomics: Lots of adjustment options, though no seat tilt
Notable tech:
- Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability for 240V appliance power
- Driver attention camera for added safety
- Keyless entry/start, rotary gear selector (quirky at times)
Performance & Drivetrain: Rear-Drive Fun at a Value Price
All S5 EV models are single-motor, rear-wheel-drive, offering:
- Power: 125 kW, 250 Nm torque
- Acceleration: 0–100 km/h in 8.2 seconds (on par with petrol rivals)
- Weight: Amazingly light at under 1,700 kg
- Driving Feel: Described as lively, playful, and confidence-inspiring
- Efficiency: 16.6 kWh/100 km
Ride is generally smooth and controlled, with sharpness only over rough edges.
Range & Charging: Everyday Usability, Road-Trip Ready
Battery Choices:
- 49 kWh LFP (Entry)
- 62 kWh (Long Range)
Claimed Ranges:
- WLTP: ~335 km (49 kWh)
- Real world: ~400 km is achievable, even in colder weather
Charging:
- Type 2 Combo port (passenger side rear)
- AC: 6.6 kW max
- DC:
- 120 kW (49 kWh version)
- 150 kW (62 kWh version)
- 30% to 80% recharge in under 20 minutes
MG S5 EV Key Specs & Features
| Variant | Battery | Price (~USD) | Power (kW) | WLTP Range (km) | DC Fast Charge | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Excite | 49 kWh | $40,000 | 125 | 335 | 120 kW | 10y/250,000 km |
| Essence | 49 kWh | $43,000 | 125 | 335 | 120 kW | 10y/250,000 km |
| Excite | 62 kWh | $45,000 | 125 | ~400 | 150 kW | 10y/250,000 km |
| Essence | 62 kWh | $48,000 | 125 | ~400 | 150 kW | 10y/250,000 km |
Safety and Ownership
- 5-Star ANCAP Rating: 90% adult, 79% safety assist
- Seven airbags, excellent assist tech (AEB, lane keep, blind spot, 360-cam)
- Customizable safety alerts via MG Pilot Custom mode
- Warranty: 10 years/250,000 km (battery & roadside too—7 years if not MG-serviced)
Real-World Experience: Delight in Simplicity
The S5 EV feels easy, manageable, and genuinely enjoyable—pleasing both pragmatists and enthusiasts. It’s a car that’s as happy running daily errands as it is taking on longer weekend journeys, thanks in large part to its sensible range, fast charging, and nimble manners.
Criticisms:
- Overly zealous warning alerts
- Minor drivetrain whine at high speed
- No frunk, and cluster graphics could be more lively
But in a segment often plagued by needless complication and inflated pricing, the MG S5 EV stands out by offering exactly what most buyers need—no more, no less. That’s value made manifest.
Verdict: The Art of Enough
The MG S5 EV is proof that “just enough” can actually be just right. It delivers premium features, solid range, a rewarding drive, and robust safety—without stretching your wallet. For those seeking a practical electric crossover without compromise, the S5 EV should be at the top of the shortlist.