The MG4 has rightly got all the attention since its launch in 2022, most recently winning our coveted ‘Car of The Year’ for 2023. However, the Chinese-owned British brand also brought in a heavily reworked version of another of its renaissance models – the MG5 estate – in 2023. 

Outside, the facelifted MG5 has an angular front airdam and slim LED headlights – making it look more like the MG4. Elsewhere, there are new alloy wheel designs at the side and a bumper and partial LED lights at the back. Overall, though, the design isn’t cohesive, as we’re not sure the front works with the middle and back. And it can’t hide the fact this is based on a car that was already looking dated when it was originally launched in the UK back in 2020. 

Inside, the MG5 gets the same 10.25in screen that debuted in the MG4. We’re not fans of its operation, and the fact that physical buttons have been replaced by menu items in there. Still, it’s an improvement over the aftermarket-looking system that was previously fitted, the sat-nav has easy-to-read maps, plus Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity is included. 

Elsewhere, the only other truly new interior part is the taller centre console. It gets a circular gear selector, which is mounted high-up in front of the infotainment screen. The metal-look dash trim, plastics and seat fabric lift this MG’s cabin, and all feel a step up from the old car. The driving position remains comfortable, with enough rear space for either paying passengers, or children. Another positive about the MG5, is the practical 479-litre boot, with its pleasingly flat load floor. The 60:40 split/fold rear seat adds further practicality. 

Like the Korean Hyundai and Kia brands were in the nineties, MG it seems is the high-value brand of the 2020s. As such, the MG5 has an impressively high level of standard kit, with the range-topping Trophy including a 360-degree parking camera, heated front seats, rear privacy glass, rain sensing wipers and auto air conditioning.  

The MG5’s mechanicals remain unchanged, so it has the same 61kWh battery as the previous long-range version. This battery then powers a 156hp electric motor fitted to the front axle. The result is 235 miles of range; decent considering the price. Plus, when you need to find a charger, this MG can be charged up to 87kW, with a 10-80% top-up estimated to take 35 minutes – which is slower than some rivals, but still reasonable in our opinion. 

The MG5 is more relaxing than involving to drive. In our view, it’s the steering that’s at fault as it lacks feel. Otherwise, the MG5 drives well, with body roll under control and the ride on 17in wheels comfortable. More unusual for EVs, is that the MG5 can tow a 500kg trailer. 

Although with 206lb-ft of torque going through the front wheels, it was all too easy to find its traction limits. The result was plenty of wheelspin when exiting from junctions. While it’s not that much fun to drive, its performance is sprightlier than you’d expect with its 7.7-second acceleration figure and 115mph top speed. 

To add more flavour, there are three modes available. ‘Eco’ makes the throttle unresponsive and more ponderous – we’d suggest only using this to save range. ‘Sport’ is the opposite of ‘Eco’, almost feeling over-eager and giving a strangely unsettled feel. We found ‘Comfort’ mode best, and where the MG5 in our opinion felt most at home. Still, the MG5 earns extra points for the adjustable regenerative braking – although it’s disappointing that even the highest level won’t result in smoother one-pedal braking. 

We’re sure these updates will keep MG5 owners coming back, but we wonder if it’s enough to bring new fleet customers to this car. 

MG5 Trophy 

P11D: £33,440

Residual value: 32.4%

Depreciation: £22,243

Fuel: £4,267

Service, maintenance and repair: £1,828

Cost per mile: 47.23p

Range: 235 miles

CO2 (BIK %): 0g/km (2%)  

BIK 20/40% a month: £11/£22

Luggage capacity: 479 litres

Battery size/power: 61kWh/156hp