MG is shaking things up again. Not content with dominating the affordable EV market, the brand is launching its new premium electric sub-brand, IM, in New Zealand later this year, and the first model off the block is the seriously impressive IM6 SUV. Standing for ‘Intelligence in Motion’, the IM brand is a high-tech joint venture between automotive giant SAIC, ZJ Hi-Tech, and tech powerhouse Alibaba, and it’s aiming to deliver an “elite car within reach for more Kiwis”.
The decision to bring the tech-laden SUV to Aotearoa came after an outstanding response from local MG dealers who saw the vehicle at its Australasian unveiling. According to Peter Ciao, CEO of MG Motor Australia and New Zealand, the dealers expressed a strong desire to add the IM6 to their portfolios, prompting the brand to make the bold move. For those keen to get a closer look, prospective owners can head into MG dealerships for a first-hand experience from November 2025.
The Tech That Turns Heads (and Wheels)
The IM6 isn’t just an EV with a fancy badge; it’s built on a foundation of sophisticated technology. It all starts with the first-generation IM Digital Chassis, which centralises control across steering, braking, suspension, and the electric drive system. This allows the car to manage six degrees of freedom, providing what MG calls an “unshakable driving experience”.
The headline act, however, is the revolutionary bi-directional rear-wheel turning technology. Offering up to 12 degrees of rear-wheel articulation, this system shrinks the SUV’s turning circle to just 5.09 metres—a figure you’d expect from a compact hatchback, not a spacious family vehicle. This incredible manoeuvrability promises to make navigating tight city streets and carparks a breeze. At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in sync with the front to enhance stability and cornering performance.
Power, Pace, and Rapid Charging
Underpinning the IM6 is a cutting-edge, quasi-900V electrical architecture that can operate at up to 875 volts, among the highest for mass-produced EVs today. This allows for some seriously rapid charging. The top-tier models can handle 396kW ultra-fast charging, adding a claimed 300km of range (NEDC) in just 15 minutes.
The range is offered in three distinct flavours:
- IM6 Premium: The entry point features a 217kW RWD setup, hitting 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds.
- IM6 Platinum: This RWD model boasts a more potent 300kW motor, cutting the 0-100 km/h sprint to a brisk 5.4 seconds.
- IM6 Performance: The all-wheel-drive flagship is a true powerhouse, unleashing a massive 572kW and 802Nm of torque from its Hurricane Motor. This propels it from 0-100 km/h in a supercar-scaring 3.4 seconds.
For an even more refined ride, the Performance variant comes standard with Air Suspension and Continuously Control Damping, which are available as optional extras on the Platinum model.
Your AI Co-Pilot
IM’s partnership with autonomous driving specialist Momenta has resulted in the IM AD intelligent driving system, which the company claims has mass-production capabilities across L2, L3, and L4 levels of autonomy. More importantly, the system has been learning from the local driving environment in New Zealand. This has enabled it to master navigating intersections with faded or non-existent lane markings and execute smooth, “human-like” lane changes that consider surrounding traffic dynamics. The automated parking assist can handle over 300 types of parking spaces, adapting to local norms and markings like an experienced Kiwi driver.
On top of this, AI-driven features like Rainy Night Mode and One Touch AI Chauffeur use the car’s 360-degree cameras to provide real-time views of blind spots and assist with driving tasks.
A Premium Place to Be
Inside, the cabin is dominated by a huge 26.3-inch infotainment display and a separate 10.5-inch central touchscreen. The interior is designed for comfort and customisation, featuring a panoramic sunroof, luxury seat finishes, fully collapsible chairs, and even magnetic accessory points thoughtfully placed throughout the vehicle. A long 2,950mm wheelbase ensures rear passengers have vast legroom, while a 20-speaker audio system provides an immersive sound experience. As with other MG models, compatibility with the MG iSMART app allows owners to remotely monitor the vehicle, control charging, and plan routes from their smartphone.
Models, Range, and Pricing
The MG IM6 will launch in New Zealand with three distinct variants, offering a clear choice between range, performance, and price. The pricing positions the IM6 aggressively against other premium EV SUVs in the market, reinforcing its “attainable premium” ethos.
| Specification | IM6 Premium | IM6 Platinum | IM6 Performance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Battery | 75kWh LFP | 100kWh NCM | 100kWh NCM |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | AWD |
| Power | 217kW | 300kW | 572kW |
| Torque | 450Nm | 500Nm | 802Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 6.8 seconds | 5.4 seconds | 3.4 seconds |
| WLTP Range | 450km | 555km | 505km |
| DC Charge (30-80%) | 20 min @ 153kW | 15.2 min @ 396kW | 15.2 min @ 396kW |
| Turning Circle | 5.09m | 5.09m | 5.09m |
| Pricing | $66,900 + ORC | $77,900 + ORC | $89,900 + ORC |
