The new MG ES5 ‘shows its face’ in Europe with an exclusive sneak peek in entry-level trim. Is it a revolution in the SUV segment?

The MG ES5 is the new electric SUV from the Chinese owned British brand, and it comes with a big job behind it, which is to take over from the previous MG ZS EV. However, its design is a considerable departure from its predecessor and its technology has been significantly upgraded.

Thanks to the inclusion of the MSP platform, like the MG4, the new MG ES5 will give its rivals more than a headache. These include the Ford Explorer, KGM Korando EV 2025, Mini Countryman E, Omoda 5 EV, Peugeot E-3008, Renault Scenic, Skoda Elroq and Volkswagen ID.4.

With a length of 4.47 metres and a wheelbase of 2.73 metres, the MG ES5 looks good. Even in its entry-level trim, the design has already been registered in Europe by the Asian giant.

After showing you the entry-level versions of the MG3 2025 and MG ZS 2025, it’s the turn of the electric SUV. It is distinguished mainly by specific trim and the absence of certain decorative elements.

What remains unchanged are its main features, such as the dual-plane light clusters, the door creases and a light signature connecting the lights. In addition, equipment details such as surround-view cameras and parking sensors can be seen.

In the cabin, the 10.25-inch instrumentation and 15.6-inch central screen for the multimedia system take centre stage. The car claims a boot capacity of 462 litres, a volume that expands to 1,423 litres if the rear seats are folded down.

MG ES5, basic version

On a technical level, the new MG ES5 delivers 170 PS of power and 250 Nm of torque to the rear axle. There are two possible LFP (lithium iron phosphate) batteries, of 49.1 and 62.2 kWh capacity, with ranges of 264 and 326 miles respectively under the Chinese CLTC cycle.

Performance is good, as confirmed by an acceleration from 0-62 mph in 7.7 seconds, which is 7.9 seconds for the version with the more capable battery. The manufacturer also boasts a 50:50 weight distribution, five-link rear suspension and XDS differential.

In terms of technology, there’s cross-traffic alert, lane assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot and fatigue detection, automatic emergency braking, V2L function, driving modes, automatic tailgate, traffic sign recognition and an electric panoramic roof.