What is it?

The old MG ZS EV was one of Britain’s best-selling electric crossovers, and that’s because it represented excellent value for money.

However, given that it was launched back in 2019, it was time for MG to give the car a thorough update. But, unlike the old car, which shared lots of its underpinnings with the petrol-powered version, this new model is almost the complete opposite – introducing the MGS5.

Built to rival the new Skoda Elroq and Kia EV3, does this new budget-friendly Chinese SUV have what it takes to beat its competitors? Let’s find out.

What’s new?

Pretty much everything. New name, new look and to an extent, a new platform. The old car was starting to get a bit long in the tooth, so this new MGS5 has arrived just in the nick of time.

The car is longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, which should help out with space inside for occupants and its electric underpinnings have been improved to help the car go further on a single charge.

What’s under the bonnet?

There’s a choice of two battery packs - a 49kWh and a 64kWh ‘Long Range’ version.

The former comes with a single electric motor that produces 167bhp, while the latter pumps out 227bhp.

We’re driving the more powerful ‘Long Range’ version, which manages to hit 60mph in 6.3 seconds and will run out of steam at 101mph.

MG claims that the smaller battery pack can travel up to 211 miles, and the larger unit can travel between 288 to 298 miles, depending on which trim level you go for. That’s slightly more than the equivalently priced Skoda Elroq or Kia EV3, which both come with larger 77kWh batteries.

What’s it like to drive?

Behind the wheel, you can feel that the MGS5 is a larger car than the old ZS EV, but that makes it more refined on the road.

MG has done a great job of managing the instant power of the S5 EV, with limited wheel spin when you put your foot down. In comparison, the Vauxhall Mokka-E and Honda e:Ny1 both spin their front wheels under fierce acceleration, so the S5’s rear-wheel-drive setup does help.

The handling is impressive too, although it may not be as dynamic as some of its rivals, but for a midsize SUV, it certainly isn’t a dull experience. However, the ride comfort is on the firm side, with the car managing to crash and bounce over even the smallest imperfections in the road.

But with limited wind and road noise entering the cabin, the car is exceptionally quiet, making it a great companion on those longer trips.

How does it look?

MG has started fresh with the S5, and you can tell just from the first glance.

The car has a longer wheelbase than before, and it’s got a wheel-at-each-corner stance. It sits lower than before, too.

At the front, there is a resemblance to the firm’s MG4 electric hatchback with no front radiator grille, and the front LED daytime running lights come with a ‘chequered flag’ design.

At the back, you get the traditional MG single rear light bar and there is a choice of 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels.

What’s it like inside?

Inside, the MGS5 is a pleasant place to sit, with lots of plush-feeling materials used throughout the cabin.

Even if you look very closely, you still won’t find a lot of hard and scratchy plastics. There is a suede effect on the centre console, replacing the common use of piano black.

MG has listened to its customers, and in response has given the car physical buttons for the climate control, improving the car’s ergonomics and helping with user-friendliness.

Boot space is good too, although not quite as commodious as in the Kia EV3 or Skoda Elroq for its overall capacity. However, it’s still bigger than the likes of the Vauxhall Mokka-E and Peugeot E-2008, making it more than acceptable to cater for a small family and their luggage.

What’s the spec like?

MG has built up a reputation for being a brand that focuses on value for money, and the MGS5 is no exception.

Prices start at £28,995 for the SE, with all models coming with a 12.8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The flagship Trophy comes in at £33,495 for the Long Range version and boasts internet connectivity along with Spotify music streaming, YouTube and TikTok.

The only issue is that there is no option for an energy-saving heat pump — which means that the electric driving range will be affected in the winter months.

Verdict

Without a doubt, the new MGS5 is miles ahead of the old ZS EV. It looks good, has a spacious and plush-feeling interior and still represents exceptional value for money.

It drives well and is very refined at speeds, it’s just a shame that the ride isn’t as polished as it could be.

But, with that one little niggle pushed to one side, this new car moves the game on in the world of affordable family electric SUVs, and for that reason, MG could be onto a winner with the S5.