New MGS5 EV: successor to the MG ZS EV teased with new name

• New electric SUV to replace the MG ZS EV
• Based on the MG4 hatchback
• Coming in 2025 with circa £30k price tag

MG is set to reveal its latest all-electric small SUV, the MGS5 EV, within weeks. Positioned as a replacement for the MG ZS EV, this new model shares its underpinnings with the MG4 hatchback and will take on competitors like the Skoda Elroq, Kia EV3, and Hyundai Kona Electric.

What do we know so far about the MGS5 EV?

Built on MG’s Modular Scalable Platform (MSP), the MGS5 EV will incorporate design elements seen on the MG4, including a distinctive full-width rear light bar and Y-shaped tail-lights. While MG has only teased the new SUV, its Chinese-market counterpart, the MG ES5, has already been fully revealed, giving us a good idea of what to expect.

The ES5 features a sleek front end with slim headlights, bold black plastic cladding along the sides, and roof rails, adding a rugged touch. As with other MG EVs, a large chrome MG badge takes pride of place on the nose.

Inside, the ES5 boasts a minimalist, tech-focused cabin with a large central touchscreen. However, the UK-spec MGS5 is expected to have a redesigned interior tailored to European tastes. MG has described it as a “completely reimagined premium cabin” with advanced features unique to this model.

Compared to the outgoing ZS EV, the MGS5 is set to be longer, wider, and lower, promising increased interior space. It measures 4,476mm in length - making it 120mm longer than the Hyundai Kona Electric - while its 2,730mm wheelbase is 70mm longer than that of the Kona, suggesting a roomy and practical cabin for families.

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Battery options and expected range

Since the MGS5 shares its platform with the MG4, it’s likely to offer the same battery and motor options. This means an entry-level model with a 51kWh battery providing just over 200 miles of range, while the longest-range version could surpass 300 miles thanks to a 77kWh pack.  

So far, MG has confirmed that the ES5 is rear-wheel drive, with power outputs expected to range from 168bhp to 242bhp. However, given that the MG4 XPower features a dual-motor setup, there’s potential for an all-wheel-drive variant of the MGS5 as well.  

How much will the MGES5 EV cost?

Pricing will be announced when the MGS5 is officially unveiled, but MG UK’s product boss, David Allison, previously indicated a target starting price of under £30,000. This would make it significantly cheaper than key rivals like the Skoda Elroq (£31,500), Kia EV3 (around £33,000), and Hyundai Kona Electric (£35,000). 

Alongside the MGS5, MG has confirmed that a larger mid-size electric SUV will arrive in 2025 to rival the Skoda Enyaq, Renault Scenic and Volkswagen ID.4, along with new Chinese entrants like the XPeng G6 and Leapmotor C10. Built on the same MSP platform, this new model is expected to replace the MG Marvel R sold in mainland Europe, and give the brand a new set of potential customers in the UK.

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