When it comes to the electric vehicle (EV) market, the street is buzzing with opinions, especially in the SUV segment that’s rapidly gaining traction. We’ve gathered three contenders – the MG4, BYD Atto 3, and Omoda E5 – to determine which one reigns supreme. So, what better way to put these affordable electric SUVs to the test than a good old-fashioned Kiwi road trip?
Meet the Contestants – Now, let’s introduce our trio of electrifying SUVs
MG4: With a heritage dating back to 1924, MG has evolved into a powerhouse of value-driven electric vehicles. The MG4 is their second EV, offering a blend of affordability and function. Despite some interior plastics feeling scratchy, it impresses with comfort, build quality, and a respectable driving range.
BYD Atto 3: This small-to-medium SUV is a game-changer in New Zealand’s EV market, bringing home multiple awards. Its exterior design is understated, but step inside, and you’re presented with a vibrant, uniquely styled interior. The Atto 3 blends technology, comfort, and space, catering to modern SUV drivers’ needs.
Omoda E5: A newcomer from the Chery Corporation, Omoda is making waves with its stylish branding and a focus on eco-friendliness. The E5 is a luxury contender packed with tech features, including a stunning 24-inch screen and a 360-degree camera. Its interior exudes European quality, offering comfort and advanced safety systems.
The Adventure Begins – Our journey kicked off from the airport, where the excitement was palpable. With nearly 400 km to drive, including stops in Thames and Pairoa, it was about to turn into an all-day affair. But first, there was the small matter of charging – a task that can be easier said than done, especially when you’re not sure which side the charge ports are on!
The First Test- Luggage Space – Before hitting the road, we checked luggage space – a crucial component for any road trip. The MG4 boasts 363 litres of boot space with a classic manual opening tailgate. It’s functional, but lacks the flair of its rivals. In the Atto 3, we measured a generous 440 litres and enjoyed the luxury of an electric tailgate. Yet, the crowning glory was the Omoda E5, with a hands-free opening feature and 380 litres of suitcase capacity. Game, set, match for the Omoda!
First Impressions – As we settled into our electrifying chariots, the first impressions came flooding in. The MG4 felt like a strong contender — it was well put together and comfortable to drive. The Atto 3 surprised with its quirky interior, feeling somewhat disjointed compared to its conventional exterior.
The Omoda E5? A breath of fresh air! Stepping inside felt luxurious, with a well-appointed interior mimicking high-end European offerings. Its simplistic push-button start made it easy to get moving, and the ergonomic seating was a treat, especially on long trips.
The Road Trip – As we negotiated winding roads and enjoyed the scenic views, we tested crucial features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. Here, the MG4 held its ground with a sporty driving experience, providing excellent handling and feedback. However, it stumbled a bit on user-friendly tech, as one of our team struggled to activate cruise control.
Meanwhile, the Atto 3 felt more like the traditional SUV it is, with a comfortable ride despite its polarising interior design. And the Omoda? It impressed us all with its combination of comfort and luxury; we marvelled at its driving dynamics and adaptive features.
Charging Pit Stops, Refreshments Included – After a few hours of driving, we found ourselves at the iconic L&P bottle – the perfect tourist pit stop. While admiring the views, we made a toast to our rides with chilled drinks from the Omoda’s glove compartment. Talk about a refreshing touch!
The Verdict
After a day of comparing three impressive electric SUVs, the final thoughts rolled in. Here’s what we concluded. MG4: A fantastic all-rounder delivering great value and solid driving experience, but lacking in high-end luxury. Atto 3: A well-established player in the affordable EV segment, renowned for its road credibility and smart use of space but feeling a touch dated in interior design. Omoda E5: The underdog turned champion with a compelling mix of style, luxury, tech sophistication, and usage practicality. The 24-inch screen and overall fit and finish won the day for many of us.
Unanimous Decision – The Omoda E5 Takes The Crown
In a world buzzing with electric vehicles, we found that while each SUV had its strengths, the Omoda E5 truly swept us off our feet. With its luxurious feel, ample features, and head-turning design, it stood out in a crowd.
As the EV landscape continues to evolve, it’s clear that the bar has been raised. Whatever your choice might be, one thing’s certain: a thrilling electric road trip awaits you, and in this trio, the Omoda E5 has set a new standard for affordable luxury on wheels!
