2025 MG ES5: What to expect?

The all-new 2025 MG ES5 was officially unveiled in China on October 15, 2024. The new compact electric SUV could likely be a replacement for the outgoing MG ZS EV, which is priced at around AED 130,000 in the UAE. Its Chinese launch is expected later this year, with several global markets following suit in 2025.

Upon launch in the Middle East, the new MG ES5 will be positioned above the MG4 EV. Both cars share the same underpinning, i.e., SAIC’s Modular Scalable Platform (MSP). The ES5 should be available in variants like STD, COM, and LUX. Its expected price in China is between CNY 100,000-150,000 (around AED 51,000-77,000).

Exterior

The MG ES5 is a larger car than the MG4 EV, which is to be expected from a crossover SUV. Its wheelbase of 2,730 mm is longer than the latter’s 2,705 mm, while the overall length is reportedly 4,476 mm. This makes the ES5 189 mm longer than its hatchback sibling, leading to a more substantial road presence.

A crossover SUV needs to be taller as well – the MG ES5 stands 1,621 mm at the roof. This translates to a 105 mm increase in height, making ingress and egress easier. Looking at the side profile of the MG ES5, the styling follows the tried & tested but typical ‘modern crossover’ template.

Adding flair are the pronounced wheel arches, extended shoulders, two-tone 18-inch alloy rims, and neat-looking wing mirrors. The mostly-blunt front fascia is mostly sealed off but punctuated by flared lower-lip extensions and deep-set LED headlights. The ‘pulled-back’ design of the LED daytime running lights looks quite sharp.

The compact-looking rear of the MG ES5 features a roof-integrated spoiler and a ducktail-type extension on the bootlid. A full-width light bar is present as well, while the scissor-style tail light extensions look fancy. However, the rest of the rear of the ES5 does not participate as enthusiastically.

Interior

Minimalism seems to be one of the key design takeaways on the inside of the 2025 MG ES5. The look is one of clean lines with practical cutouts for smart storage options. There are cupholders between the front seats, bottle holders in the doors, plus center tunnel storage – both above and below.

The curved dashboard with its soft-touch lining looks modern and integrates the AC vents in style. A digital driver’s display is tucked inside a housing behind the steering wheel – it has a flat top and bottom. The design of this steering wheel is reminiscent of some new VW Group cars.

The gearbox is controlled via a stalk coming off the steering column, one of the easiest methods of doing so. A large touchscreen sits front and centre on the dashboard, inevitably offering connected car tech such as Android Auto & Apple CarPlay. A glass sunroof means airiness, accentuated further by the optional light upholstery and spacious leather seats.

Occupants will be seated higher in the MG ES5 than in the MG4 EV, enabling a better view of the road. The rear-seat passengers get the convenience of having headrests, a centre armrest, and LED reading lights. The features are likely to include wireless charging, dual-zone automatic climate control, powered front seats, adaptive cruise control, a surround-sound audio system, etc.

Engine and performance

On launch, the MG ES5 is expected to be powered by 49.1 kWh and 62.2 kWh lithium-ion phosphate (LFP) batteries. There should also be a Long Range version boasting a range of 525 km. The other versions have a range of 425 km and 515 km, respectively. These figures are according to the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle or CLTC.

According to the British-origin Chinese automaker, at just 110 mm thick, these are the thinnest battery packs in the world! Just like the MG4 EV, the ES5 would primarily be rear-wheel drive and powered by a single electric motor. The base version of this motor produces 168 hp (125 kW) and 250 Nm of torque.

Higher variants of the MG ES5 could be offered with 201 hp (150 kW). The base variant should still reach a top speed of 170 kmph, accelerating from 0 to 100 kmph in around 7 to 8 seconds. While not rapid, this level of performance is decent. The DC fast-charging speed of the MG ES5 should be 85 kW.

The 2025 MG ES5 can get drive modes, making for a more involved experience behind the wheel. MG Motor is likely to soften the suspension a bit owing to the higher curb weight of this crossover SUV. This, along with the slightly higher center of gravity, may introduce more roll when cornering hard.

Safety

The MG ES5 is likely to share its safety features with the MG4 EV. This means that prospective buyers can expect the MG Pilot system which includes blind-spot detection, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-change assist, door-open warning, Smart Speed Assist System, and Unsteady Driver Warning.

These will be backed up by at least 6 airbags, an electronic stability program, and TPMS. Other important features will be front & rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, ISOFIX anchors, ABS disc brakes with auto hold, automatic headlights, seatbelt reminders, and autonomous emergency braking.

Conclusion

The 2025 MG ES5 would be perfect for those wanting a larger boot and more cabin space. Both these are aspects that are afforded quite easily by a crossover SUV while offering a relatively low floor. This should be possible, considering the OEM boasts about the really thin battery pack fitted to the MG ES5.

Since it will be tuned mostly for comfort, the ES5’s ride quality can be more accommodating over bad roads. Competing against cars like the Hyundai Kona Electric, the MG ES5 should feel more spacious and ergonomic for everyday use. The flip side of this may affect the eagerness of the EV, reducing the fun quotient on weekend drives.

While there is no official word from MG Motor about UAE prices yet, it will be more expensive than the outgoing ZS EV. The new ES5’s more modern features and nicer styling should make up for it, though. Customers in the UAE can also expect a 6-year/200,000 km manufacturer warranty.

Also read: XPENG G6 arrives in the UAE, marking a revolution in the EV market