Hot on the heels of the award-winning MG4’s success, MG Motor New Zealand is doubling down on its electric ambitions with the confirmation of the all-new MGS5 EV, an all-electric SUV expected to land on Kiwi shores in late August. Promising a compelling mix of dynamic handling, innovative tech, and family-friendly practicality, the MGS5 EV looks set to shake up the electric SUV segment.
A Driver’s EV
MG seems keen to prove that practical electric SUVs can still be exciting to drive. The MGS5 EV is built on the same Modular Scalable Platform as the 5-star ANCAP-rated MG4, inheriting its brilliant rear-wheel-drive dynamics. This RWD setup, often preferred by driving enthusiasts for its balanced handling and engaging feel, is paired with a calibrated five-link rear suspension and dual-pinion EPS steering, engineered specifically for precise EV handling. All variants will deliver a punchy 125kW of power and 250Nm of torque, ensuring brisk acceleration for city driving and motorway merging.
Range, Charging, and Variants for Every Kiwi
Understanding that one size doesn’t fit all, MG is offering the MGS5 EV in two battery sizes and two trim levels. Buyers can choose between a 49kWh or a 62kWh LFP battery, with both available in either ‘Excite’ or the more premium ‘Essence’ trim.
This translates to a wide spectrum of range options, from a practical 340km (WLTP) for the Excite 49kWh model up to an impressive 515km (NEDC) for the 62kWh versions, making range anxiety a thing of the past for most commuters and family road-trippers. When it’s time to top up, the MGS5 EV boasts impressive charging speeds, capable of replenishing the battery from 30% to 80% in just 19 minutes on a compatible fast charger.
Pricing starts at a competitive $44,990 + ORC for the Excite 49 and goes up to $54,990 + ORC for the top-spec Essence 62.
An Elevated and Tech-Rich Cabin
Inside, the MGS5 EV features a modern and spacious cabin, enhanced by the clever battery design. The battery pack is a slim 110mm high, which maximises interior space. The centerpiece is a large 12.8-inch infotainment display running MG’s upgraded interface, complete with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard across the entire range.
For those opting for the Essence variants, the interior experience is further elevated with a panoramic sunroof and a hands-free power tailgate. Practicality is also a key feature, with 40:60 split-folding rear seats that expand the boot space from a generous 453 litres to a cavernous 1441 litres. Owners can also use the MG iSMART mobile app to remotely monitor charging, check the vehicle’s location, and plan routes from their smartphone.
Peter Ciao, CEO for MG Motor Australia and New Zealand, stated, “The MGS5 EV will offer the best value for Kiwi families in the electric SUV segment… Our love of an SUV, combined with MG’s upgraded tech features, the MGS5 EV is sure to be embraced by Kiwi motorists.”
To sweeten the deal, MG New Zealand is running a special launch offer: the first 30 customers to take delivery will receive a complimentary 7kW MG Charge Hub for faster charging at home. This is all backed by MG’s industry-leading 10-year/250,000km warranty, providing long-term peace of mind for new owners.
2 Responses
It this an independent publication or a MG superfan site. Delete 90% of the adjectives here, please.
Also, why tf would you give one battery’s range as WLTP and the other as NEDC?
Thanks for dropping by. We are an independent publication, however, we are rather partial to what MG are up to. As for this piece, we have yet to review the new MGS5 so are going by what they tell us – adjectives and all. We’re looking forward to getting behind the wheel and telling you what we really think. Have you driven it?