MG 5 Electric Car Review A Compact EV Worth Your Attention

The MG 5 Electric stands out as a value-packed compact EV with impressive range, zippy acceleration, and a tech-rich interior at a surprisingly affordable price. Its practical hatchback design, combined with rapid charging and a smooth ride, makes it a compelling choice for urban commuters and eco-conscious drivers alike.

Key Takeaways

• Affordable pricing: The MG 5 offers great value in the compact EV segment.
• Impressive range: Delivers up to 250 miles on a single charge.
• Fast charging: Recharges 80% in just 40 minutes with DC charging.
• Spacious interior: Ample room for passengers and cargo despite compact size.
• Smart tech: Packed with advanced driver aids and infotainment features.
• Smooth drive: Responsive handling and quiet performance for city and highway.

Introduction: The Rise of Affordable Electric Mobility

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is no longer reserved for luxury buyers or tech enthusiasts with deep pockets. With increasing environmental awareness and rising fuel prices, automakers are stepping up to offer affordable, practical, and efficient electric cars for the everyday driver. Among the new wave of budget-friendly EVs making waves in global markets—particularly in Europe, Asia, and Australia—is the MG 5 Electric. This compact station wagon from the British-Chinese automaker MG Motor has quietly become one of the most compelling options in the sub-€30,000 EV segment, offering a blend of practicality, range, and modern tech that defies its modest price tag.

Launched initially in China and later expanded to international markets, the MG 5 Electric (also known as the MG5 EV or MG Mulan in select regions) has earned praise for challenging the notion that electric cars must sacrifice space, comfort, or performance to be affordable. Unlike many EVs that prioritize sleek coupe-like designs, the MG 5 Electric embraces a station wagon body style, delivering a rare combination of cargo space, passenger comfort, and zero-emission driving. Whether you’re a city commuter, a small family, or someone seeking a second car with long-range capability, the MG 5 Electric deserves a serious look. In this comprehensive MG 5 Electric car review, we’ll explore its design, performance, interior, technology, charging, and real-world usability to determine if it truly lives up to the hype.

Design and Exterior: Practical Meets Modern

A Station Wagon for the EV Era

One of the most distinctive aspects of the MG 5 Electric is its body style. While most EVs in this price range—like the Renault Zoe or Fiat 500e—are hatchbacks or city cars, the MG 5 Electric stands out with a five-door station wagon layout. This design choice immediately sets it apart, offering a level of practicality rarely seen in the compact EV segment. The long roofline and flat rear end maximize cargo capacity and rear passenger headroom, making it ideal for families or those who frequently carry luggage, sports gear, or groceries.

From the front, the MG 5 Electric features a modern, minimalist design. The closed-off grille (a hallmark of EVs) is flanked by sharp LED headlights and integrated daytime running lights, giving it a futuristic yet approachable appearance. The sculpted bonnet and pronounced wheel arches add a touch of athleticism, while the side profile reveals a long wheelbase and generous overhangs, contributing to its spacious interior.

Exterior Features and Build Quality

Despite its budget positioning, the MG 5 Electric doesn’t skimp on exterior quality. The fit and finish are solid, with consistent panel gaps and a well-applied paint finish. It rides on 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels (depending on trim), with aerodynamic designs that help improve efficiency. The rear end features full-width LED taillights connected by a thin light bar, a trendy design cue that enhances visibility and modern appeal.

One practical highlight is the hands-free power tailgate available on higher trims. Simply wave your foot under the rear bumper (with the key fob in your pocket), and the hatch opens automatically—ideal when your hands are full. The roof rails (standard on most variants) allow for roof box or bike rack installation, further boosting utility.

• Length: 4,544 mm
• Width: 1,818 mm
• Height: 1,496 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,659 mm
• Ground clearance: 135 mm

These dimensions place the MG 5 Electric in the compact-to-mid-size segment, offering a footprint that’s easy to maneuver in urban environments while still providing ample interior space. Its low center of gravity—thanks to the floor-mounted battery—enhances stability, especially during cornering and sudden maneuvers.

Interior and Comfort: Spacious, Functional, and Surprisingly Premium

Cabin Layout and Materials

Step inside the MG 5 Electric, and you’re greeted with an interior that punches well above its price point. While hard plastics are present (as expected in this segment), MG has cleverly used textured surfaces, soft-touch materials on key touchpoints (like the dashboard and door armrests), and tasteful metallic accents to elevate the ambiance. The dashboard features a clean, horizontal layout with a floating infotainment screen and a digital instrument cluster, both positioned for optimal driver visibility.

The seats are well-bolstered and supportive, with cloth or synthetic leather upholstery depending on the trim. The driver’s seat offers height and lumbar adjustment, ensuring a comfortable driving position for most body types. Rear passengers benefit from generous legroom—thanks to the long wheelbase—and a nearly flat floor, making the middle seat usable for adults on short trips.

Storage and Practicality

Where the MG 5 Electric truly shines is in its storage and cargo capabilities. With the rear seats up, it offers a class-leading 479 liters of boot space—more than many compact SUVs. Fold the 60:40 split rear seats, and that expands to a cavernous 1,367 liters, with a relatively low load floor and minimal intrusion from the wheel arches. This makes it perfect for weekend getaways, moving furniture, or even as a mobile office for freelancers.

Additional interior storage includes:

• Large door pockets with bottle holders
• A deep center console bin with USB-C and 12V outlets
• Two cupholders with a sliding cover
• A glovebox with a cooling function (on higher trims)
• Map pockets on the front seatbacks

Another standout feature is the flat-folding front passenger seat (available on select trims), which allows you to transport long items like surfboards, ladders, or furniture—something most EVs in this class can’t match.

Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH)

Electric cars are inherently quieter than combustion-engine vehicles, and the MG 5 Electric is no exception. At city speeds, the cabin is remarkably serene, with minimal tire and wind noise. At highway speeds, some wind noise creeps in around the A-pillars, but it’s not intrusive. The suspension does a decent job of absorbing bumps, though it can feel a bit firm on rough roads—likely a trade-off for improved handling. Overall, the NVH levels are competitive for the segment, making long drives comfortable.

Performance and Driving Experience: Efficient, Smooth, and Surprisingly Fun

Powertrain and Acceleration

The MG 5 Electric is available with two battery and motor configurations, but the most widely available version (especially in Europe and Australia) features a 50.3 kWh battery paired with a 135 kW (181 hp) electric motor driving the front wheels. This setup delivers a 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph) time of around 7.7 seconds, which is brisk for a family-oriented wagon. The instant torque delivery of the electric motor ensures quick off-the-line acceleration and effortless overtaking at highway speeds.

For those seeking more range, a long-range version with a 61.1 kWh battery is available in select markets, offering up to 425 km (264 miles) of WLTP-rated range—a significant upgrade over the standard model’s 320 km (199 miles). Both versions support DC fast charging, but the long-range model can charge at higher rates (up to 80 kW vs. 50 kW), reducing charging time significantly.

Driving Modes and Regenerative Braking

The MG 5 Electric offers multiple driving modes to suit different preferences:

• Eco: Softens throttle response and reduces energy consumption, ideal for city driving.
• Normal: Balanced performance and efficiency for everyday use.
• Sport: Sharpens throttle response and increases power output, adding a fun, dynamic edge.

One of the most useful features is the adjustable regenerative braking system. Using the steering wheel-mounted paddles, drivers can select from three levels of regen:

• Level 0: Coasting (minimal regen)
• Level 1: Mild regen (similar to engine braking)
• Level 2: Strong regen (enables one-pedal driving)

At Level 2, the car slows significantly when you lift off the accelerator, allowing you to drive through traffic using just the throttle—reducing brake wear and increasing efficiency. It takes some getting used to, but once mastered, it’s a game-changer for city driving.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The MG 5 Electric is tuned more for comfort than sportiness, with a soft suspension setup that absorbs potholes and speed bumps well. While it’s not a corner-carving machine, it feels planted and stable at highway speeds. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight urban spaces and parking lots.

One area of improvement is body roll during aggressive cornering—expected in a tall-roof station wagon—but it’s well-controlled thanks to the low-mounted battery. The brakes (discs all around) are strong and progressive, with minimal fade during repeated hard stops. Overall, the driving experience is smooth, predictable, and confidence-inspiring, perfect for daily commuting and family use.

Technology and Connectivity: Smart Features Without the Price Tag

Infotainment System

The MG 5 Electric comes equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system running MG’s iSmart software. The interface is intuitive, with large icons, quick response times, and a split-screen function that allows you to view navigation and media simultaneously. Standard features include:

• Apple CarPlay (wired)
• Android Auto (wired)
• Bluetooth connectivity
• USB-A and USB-C ports
• Voice control for basic functions

While wireless smartphone integration isn’t available, the wired connection is stable and fast. The system also includes built-in navigation with real-time traffic updates and EV-specific routing (showing nearby charging stations and estimated range upon arrival).

Digital Instrument Cluster and Driver Aids

The 7-inch digital instrument cluster displays essential driving information like speed, battery level, range, and energy consumption. It’s customizable, allowing you to switch between different layouts (e.g., minimalist, sporty, or navigation-focused). Higher trims add a head-up display (HUD) that projects key data onto the windshield, reducing the need to look down at the dash.

Driver assistance features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
• Lane Keep Assist (LKA)
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
• Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
• Blind Spot Detection (BSD)
• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Parking Sensors and Rearview Camera

These systems work reliably in real-world conditions, though the lane-keeping assist can be a bit overzealous on rural roads with faded markings. Still, for a car under €30,000, the suite of safety tech is impressively comprehensive.

Smartphone App and Remote Features

MG’s iSmart app allows owners to:

• Check battery status and charging progress
• Start/stop charging remotely
• Pre-condition the cabin (cool or heat) before departure
• Locate the car and lock/unlock doors
• View trip history and energy usage

The app is user-friendly and works reliably, though occasional connectivity issues have been reported during peak usage times. Pre-conditioning is especially useful in winter, as it heats the cabin using grid power instead of draining the battery.

Charging, Range, and Real-World Efficiency

Charging Options and Times

The MG 5 Electric supports multiple charging methods:

• AC Charging (home/wallbox): Up to 7.4 kW (standard) or 11 kW (optional)
• DC Fast Charging: Up to 50 kW (standard model) or 80 kW (long-range model)

Here’s a breakdown of charging times:

Charging Method	Standard Model (50.3 kWh)	Long-Range Model (61.1 kWh)
7.4 kW Wallbox (0–100%)	7 hours 15 mins	8 hours 30 mins
11 kW Wallbox (0–100%)	5 hours 15 mins	6 hours 15 mins
50 kW DC Fast Charger (10–80%)	40 mins	50 mins
80 kW DC Fast Charger (10–80%)	N/A	35 mins

For most owners, overnight charging at home or work will be sufficient. However, the DC fast charging capability makes long-distance travel feasible, especially with the long-range model.

Real-World Range and Efficiency

While WLTP ratings are useful, real-world range depends on driving style, temperature, terrain, and use of climate control. In mixed city/highway driving, the standard model typically achieves 260–290 km (160–180 miles), while the long-range model delivers 360–400 km (220–250 miles).

Tips to maximize range:

• Use Eco mode in city traffic
• Engage Level 2 regenerative braking
• Pre-condition the cabin while plugged in
• Avoid aggressive acceleration and high speeds (above 110 km/h)
• Keep tire pressure at recommended levels

Winter range can drop by 20–30% due to heating and reduced battery efficiency, but MG’s heat pump (available on higher trims) helps mitigate this loss.

Conclusion: A Hidden Gem in the EV Market

The MG 5 Electric is more than just another affordable EV—it’s a well-rounded, practical, and surprisingly sophisticated package that challenges the status quo. With its station wagon body style, it offers a level of cargo and passenger space unmatched in its class, making it ideal for families, urbanites, and adventurers alike. The smooth electric powertrain, adjustable regenerative braking, and user-friendly tech deliver a driving experience that’s both efficient and enjoyable.

While it may not have the brand prestige of Tesla or the luxury of a BMW i3, the MG 5 Electric makes up for it with value, practicality, and smart engineering. It’s proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to own a capable, modern electric car. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint, save on fuel and maintenance costs, or simply enjoy the quiet, responsive nature of electric driving, the MG 5 Electric is a compact EV worth your attention.

For buyers prioritizing space, range, and affordability without sacrificing tech or comfort, the MG 5 Electric isn’t just a contender—it’s a class leader in the budget EV segment. As MG continues to expand its global footprint and improve its charging infrastructure, this unassuming station wagon could very well become the default choice for practical electric mobility. If you’re in the market for an EV that does more than just get you from A to B, take a closer look at the MG 5 Electric. You might just find your perfect match.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the MG 5 Electric Car stand out in the compact EV market?

The MG 5 Electric Car combines practicality, affordability, and a spacious interior, making it a strong contender in the compact EV segment. Its sleek design and competitive range (up to 250 miles WLTP) offer excellent value for urban and suburban drivers.

How does the MG 5 Electric Car review highlight its performance?

The MG 5 delivers smooth acceleration with its 156hp electric motor and handles city driving with ease. While not a sporty EV, its responsive steering and quiet cabin enhance daily commutes, as noted in most MG 5 Electric Car reviews.

What is the charging time for the MG 5 Electric Car?

The MG 5 supports 50kW DC fast charging, reaching 80% in about 50 minutes. Using a home AC charger (7.4kW), a full charge takes approximately 8 hours, ideal for overnight use.

Does the MG 5 Electric Car offer good value for money?

Yes, with a starting price below many rivals, the MG 5 packs features like a 10.25-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating. Its low running costs further boost its value proposition.

What are common criticisms in MG 5 Electric Car reviews?

Some MG 5 Electric Car reviews note the infotainment system can be sluggish, and the ride may feel firm on rough roads. However, these trade-offs are typical for EVs in this price range.

Is the MG 5 suitable for long-distance driving?

With a real-world range of ~200 miles, the MG 5 works for occasional long trips, especially with growing fast-charging networks. For frequent highway drivers, higher-range EVs might be preferable, but it’s ideal for daily use.