MGS5 Review
Read Caroline's MGS5 review for everything you need to know about buying MG's new compact electric SUV in Ireland.
MG continues to grow in Ireland as it expands its range of hybrid and electric vehicles. The latest to arrive is the MGS5, a new compact electric SUV that effectively replaces the old MG ZS.
It's part of a new generation of MGs with more style and technology, sharing much with the popular MG4 hatchback.
There's a host of rivals to contend with like the Jeep Avenger, Peugeot E-2008 and the Hyundai Kona, while the Kia EV3 and Skoda Elroq are also in the MG's sight.
Let's take a closer look.
Design
MG is really on a roll when it comes to design and has found a style that really helps its cars to stand out and look good. It all started with the MG4 electric hatchback and since then we've seen smartly revamped versions of the ZS and HS hybrid SUVs.
The new MGS5 brings more of the same with a sleek and stylish design. Distinguishing features include sharp LED lighting at the front, silver roof rails and a full width light bar at the rear. There's also an active grille shutter to improve aerodynamics. A range of colours are available and a few trim lines for the Irish market: Excite and Exclusive.
Excite models come with 17-inch alloy wheels, while Exclusive models have 18-inch.
MGS5 Interior
Inside the MGS5 is stylish and modern. Excite models come with fabric upholstery, while Exclusive adds some synthetic leather with the MG motif engrained into the seat material. It's a neat touch.
Standard equipment includes a digital driver display and 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen. For the European market, MG has also rowed back on complete reliance on the screen. There's now a row of buttons underneath to adjust things like the climate control. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also included.
A parking camera, keyless entry, automatic climate control with rear vents, adaptive cruise control and lots of safety features are included as standard.
The Exclusive model feels a bit more luxurious with 360-degree camera, heated front seats and steering wheel, power adjustment and lumbar support for the driver's seat, wireless smartphone charger and a powered tailgate.
Practicality
Built on a bespoke electric vehicle platform, the MGS5 feels spacious inside with plenty of legroom in the back for even adult passengers to stretch out.
There are Isofix child seat points on the two outer seats and Exclusive versions also add a centre armrest.
The boot is generously sized at 453 litres including underfloor storage, which compares well to rivals like the Peugeot E-2008 (434 litres) and Hyundai Kona Electric (466 litres). It also has a handy two-position boot floor. The rear seats can be let down 60:40 to increase the load area.
What is the range of the MGS5?
The standard range battery is 49kWh in size and offers up to 340 kilometres of range.
Offering more flexibility is the long range battery with up to 465 kilometres in the Exclusive trim or up to a maximum of 480 kilometres in the Excite trim.
Driving the MGS5
The MGS5 is built on the same platform as the MG4. Power is sent to the rear wheels: that's 125hp in the standard range or an even more nippy 170hp in the long range. I tested the Long Range Exclusive and it can do the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 6.3 seconds, which is more than enough for a compact SUV like this.
There are five driving modes (normal, sport, comfort, snow and custom) and impressively there's four options for regenerative braking, as well as a full one pedal driving mode.
The MGS5 is competent on the road without being thrilling in any way and is comfortable at a cruise, though it does feel bumpier on rural roads. Rivals like the Peugeot E-2008 and Kia EV3 feel more polished in this regard, while the MGS5's height can also contribute to more lean in corners.
The Exclusive model on test compromises a little outright range with up to 465 kilometres, however efficiency remains good. Over a week of driving I averaged 17.1 kWh per 100 kilometres.
Charging
AC charging is up to 7kW, which is fine for charging at home. However, it will be very slow to charge using public AC chargers and most rivals do offer now 11kW AC. At DC chargers, things are better: up to 120kW for the 49kWh battery and up to 139kW for the 64kWh battery. This translates to a 10-80% charge in as little as 24 minutes for the standard range battery or 28 minutes for the larger one.
Vehicle to load charging is included on every MGS5 and there's also the ability to pre-condition the battery for faster charging.
Pricing
The MGS5 is well priced for the Irish market, starting from just €29,995 for the standard range battery in Excite trim with up to 340 kilometres of range.
Opt for the long range battery and the price increases to €33,495 in the Excite trim with range up to 480 kilometres or from €35,995 for the Exclusive trim with range up to 465 kilometres.
Verdict
The MGS5 is a big step forward for MG in the compact SUV segment. The new styling makes it very attractive to look at, while battery range is more than competitive, particularly with the larger battery. It offers a lot of value in its segment, though realistically the Exclusive model is the most attractive with a nicer spec overall. The MGS5 is not quite as polished to drive as its rivals yet not too far behind, and with so much space and technology onboard, the MGS5 is certainly not lacking.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG ZS Hybrid Review
Read Caroline's MG ZS Hybrid review for everything you need to know about buying MG's new small hybrid SUV in Ireland.
2024 has been the year of the hybrid for MG Motor Ireland. The brand has launched three this year - the MG3 Hybrid supermini, the MG HS plug-in hybrid and now the MG ZS Hybrid.
The ZS is a compact SUV that was part of MG's relaunch a few years ago and is the brand's second bestselling model in Ireland after the MG4. It started life as an electric SUV but now MG has introduced a brand new ZS Hybrid in keeping with market demand for hybrid vehicles.
It goes on sale priced from €29,995 undercutting key rivals like the Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid, Hyundai Kona Hybrid and even the new Dacia Duster Hybrid.
So is it worth it? Let's take a closer look.
Design
The ZS is a substantial car in the metal and is now a bit longer, wider and taller than the ZS EV. It has chunky SUV looks and the new face of the brand, similar to the MG3 and larger MG HS. LED lights come as standard for a smart look and it is particularly brilliant in blue metallic paint!
There are a few trim levels on offer but the mid-range Excite adds more desirable 17-inch alloy wheels. The Exclusive model on test has its own set of 18-inch alloys and rear privacy glass. At the back, the registration plate has been moved to the middle, which gives the hybrid a different look to the electric.
MG ZS Hybrid Interior
The ZS Hybrid gets a newly designed interior with a grown-up design and lots of soft touch materials. It has some stylish details like the large gear selector and the silver finish around rectangular air vents. Exclusive models come with black leather-style upholstery, which really gives it a classy finish. The seats are also heated and the driver's seat has power adjustment. So altogether it stands up well among its rivals when it comes to the cabin finish.
There's a full digital driver display and large touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. You can connect it via a USB-A port, though there is also a USB-C.
The touchscreen has similar graphics to the larger MG HS and a row of shortcut buttons underneath to useful functions like demisting the rear window or turning on or off the ventilation system. You can also set shortcuts to adjust the climate control or other functions via buttons on the steering wheel.
It comes well-equipped from entry with a parking camera, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers and keyless entry.
Practicality
The ZS Hybrid is certainly at the upper end of the class for interior space. It doesn't feel small at all inside. There's loads of legroom in the back and handy features like pockets in the back of the front seats, generous door bins, USB port and Isofix on the two outer seats.
The boot is also generously sized for a small SUV at 443 litres. That's larger than the Toyota Yaris Cross and Nissan Juke Hybrid but a little way off the Dacia Duster Hybrid.
Driving the MG ZS
The new ZS Hybrid uses the same hybrid system as the MG3 supermini. It's based around a 1.5-litre petrol engine, small battery and electric motor. It's a standard hybrid so it doesn't need to be plugged in and charged to get the best from it.
It stands out for how powerful and lively it feels from behind the wheel. There's a whopping 196hp being fed to the front wheels and if you do accelerate with gusto coming out of a junction for instance, there is sometimes wheel spin. 0-100 is just 8.7 seconds. There are drive modes to adjust the drive including sport, normal and eco.
But the whole point of a hybrid is efficiency. The ZS can dip into EV driving to boost efficiency however in my experience it wasn't as fuel efficient as the likes of a Toyota Yaris Cross Hybrid for instance. My average fuel consumption was 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres, which is okay but I couldn't replicate MG's quoted 5.1 litres.
There is regenerative braking and you can toggle between three levels of that to return energy to the battery.
In its favour the ZS Hybrid feels fluid and natural to drive. It never gets too noisy with no whining from the engine when you put your foot down. It's comfortable to drive on the motorway, though it can feel a little bumpier in town driving over imperfections in the road surface.
The steering is light, which makes parking and town driving very easy but it's not exactly a driver's car like a Ford Puma.
The MG Pilot safety and driver assistance features come as standard including adaptive cruise control, active emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot detection, forward collision warning, and traffic jam assist.
Verdict
Altogether, the MG ZS Hybrid is a great addition to the MG range offering a convenient, powerful hybrid option in the shape of a popular small SUV. It's very stylish and spacious inside, and it's still one of the best value small SUVs on sale.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG ZS Hybrid Video Review
Watch my video review of the MG ZS Hybrid, tested on Irish roads for its practicality, performance and efficiency.
MG HS Review
Read Caroline's MG HS review for everything you need to know about buying MG's new plug-in hybrid SUV.
MG Motor Ireland is finishing the year with the arrival of two hybrids - the new ZS and HS. While both models have been on sale in Ireland for a few years now, the new versions take a significant leap forward in design and technology.
While the brand's most popular model remains the all-electric MG4, MG has been building its hybrid offering with the arrival last summer of the MG3 Hybrid supermini.
The new MG HS is the subject of this review and is sold in Ireland as a plug-in hybrid only. It is the brand's compact SUV rival to the likes of a Nissan Qashqai, Kia Sportage, Opel Grandland and BYD Seal U.
Let's take a closer look.
Design
The new MG HS has style in bucket loads. It's really grown up compared to the previous model. Wider and longer, it bears many examples of the brand's new design direction as seen on the latest MG4 and ZS. It has really elegant proportions and is a substantial car with plenty of kerb appeal. At the front, it features the new face of the brand with LED headlights as standard. Silver roof rails add a bit of bling as does a little chrome trim around the window line. The wheel arches and lower sills are finished in black. The test car also featured a running board, but it looks a bit shabby and doesn't really add anything to the car.
There are two trim levels for the Irish market: Excite and Exclusive. Both come with 19-inch diamond cut alloy wheels and rear privacy glass.
Around the back, there is an elegant light bar and the whole thing looks classy for a mid-size SUV at this part of the market.
MG HS Interior
There's a brand new cabin that's a big improvement. It feels more stylish and modern than before. It's cheap in places, like the hard plastic in the doors and glovebox cover. But most of the parts you touch often like the steering wheel, gear selector and door handles feel fine. Opt for the Exclusive for even nicer leather-style seats in black, with the option to upgrade to tan for a few hundred euros extra.
There's a new three spoke steering wheel, full digital driver display and large central touchscreen with improved graphics. It can still take a few taps to get through it but there is a line of shortcut buttons underneath for things like demisting the rear window or returning to the home screen. It could do with a few more buttons for example for changing vehicle settings like the drive mode, but it is possible to customise the star buttons on the steering wheel for things like this.
Unfortunately there's no wireless smartphone connectivity and I was not able to connect to Apple CarPlay with a cable. Worth noting, the USB ports in the car are all USB-A rather than USB-C.
The Exclusive adds nice features like wireless smartphone charging, 360 camera, heated front seats with power adjustment, and lumbar support and memory function for the driver's seat.
Practicality
The MG HS sits on a longer wheelbase than before so feels more spacious inside for passengers. There's plenty of legroom to stretch out, even for the middle seat passenger. There's separate vents in the rear, USB-A ports, a central armrest with cupholders - though no through loading. The rear seats do split fold 60:40 and there's Isofix on the two outer seats.
The boot is also a generous size at 507 litres, bigger now by about 44 litres. A powered tailgate comes as standard on the Exclusive.
Driving
The new HS plug-in hybrid uses a 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an electric motor and 24.7 kWh battery. The total power output is a healthy 220hp and there's 350Nm of torque that adds up to a nippy 0-100 of 6.8 seconds. The hybrid is mostly responsive to drive, particularly in Sport mode, which is ideal for quick overtakes or joining a motorway. The engine is well-behaved and it never gets too noisy in the cabin.
The battery is sizable for a plug-in hybrid and now boasts an excellent EV only range of 120 kilometres, up from 52 kilometres in the previous one. The battery can be charged to full from a 7.4 kW wallbox at home in just 4 hours.
It will certainly be worth keeping the battery topped up because the HS gets thirsty when it runs out of battery. It is a heavy car after all. It's no dynamic star when the roads gets twisty but it's solid and secure all the same and the steering does give a sense of connection so it's easy to place on the road.
It's quiet at motorway speeds and will cruise quite comfortably though it does feel firm over ramps in an urban setting or any crevices in the road surface.
MG HS Pricing
The entry level Excite starts from €40,995. The Exclusive with more equipment is priced from €43,995.
Verdict
The new MG HS is one of the most improved cars of the year. It takes a big step forward in design and technology and has really never looked better. It sits in a very busy part of the market with a whole host of rivals and different forms of propulsion - hybrid, electric, petrol and diesel.
The HS is competitively priced with many of them though it doesn't massively undercut on price. It's one of the best of the plug-in hybrid SUVs for the EV only range. But that's really where it's at its best so it really only makes sense to buyers who can charge the battery easily and exploit the EV range. Then it can be very cheap to run, while offering much style and practicality. It's a competitive segment but the MG is definitely worth a look.
MG HS Video Review
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG3 Hybrid Review (2024) | Good car at a great price
Read Caroline's MG3 Hybrid review for everything you need to know about buying MG's new budget small car.
MG has added another hybrid to its range of cars and SUVs in Ireland. The new MG3 slots into the range below the popular MG4. It's a Renault Clio-sized supermini with stylish good looks and a fuel efficient hybrid powertrain.
With sales of electric vehicles taking a hit in Ireland in 2024, there's renewed interest in alternatives like hybrids that are cleaner than traditional petrol cars but don't require charging.
The new MG3 goes up against superminis like the Opel Corsa and Volkswagen Polo, as well as other small hybrid cars like the Renault Clio Hybrid and the popular Toyota Yaris Hybrid.
It goes on sale from a very attractive €22,995, which undercuts key rivals quite considerably on price. But is it good enough?
Let's take a closer look!
Design
Though it's priced well in the market, the new MG3 doesn't look budget and has a smart, compact presence. It's a little softer in its design than the sportier MG4 - more like a classic supermini. Finished in Brilliant Blue, this car is a real looker. LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights come as standard across the range.
What are the different versions of the MG3?
While all versions come as a hybrid, there are three trim levels for the MG3 in Ireland: Essence, Excite and Exclusive. Top of the range Exclusive models add LED headlights and rear privacy glass. Excite and Exclusive models also come with a very attractive set of 16-inch alloy wheels.
Inside the MG3
It's easy to feel comfortable behind the wheel of the MG3. It has a well-finished cabin considering the price and the plastics don't feel cheap. Fabric seats come as standard, though Exclusive models have leather-style seats with cloth inserts for a more plush feel.
The MG steering wheel looks good and a digital driver display comes as standard. There's plenty of adjustment in the driver's seat but the steering wheel only adjusts for rake, not reach.
All versions get a 10.25-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though disappointingly it's wired not wireless. There are a few buttons underneath the screen to turn the air con on and off or adjust the volume of the radio.
Other standard features include automatic air conditioning, reversing camera and MG Pilot suite of safety and driver assistance features. The top of the range Exclusive model gets a 360-degree camera as well as a heated steering wheel and heated front seats.
Practicality
Passenger space is just about okay for a small car, though legroom in the back is on the tight side. Unusually, the rear seat back rest does not split fold and can only be let down in one entire piece.
How big is the boot of the MG3?
The boot is a respectable 293 litres so on par with rivals like the Clio and Yaris, but smaller than a Skoda Fabia.
Driving the MG3 Hybrid
On the road the MG3 feels swift and responsive for a small car. It's surprisingly powerful with a total of 194hp, completing the 0-100km/h sprint in just 8 seconds. Acceleration is also very smooth through the three-speed automatic transmission and the engine never gets too noisy like in some hybrids.
There are driving modes – Eco, Standard and Sport - and regenerative braking with the option to adjust the strength of it from a menu in the touchscreen.
The MG3 doesn't feel quite as sharp to drive as rivals when the roads get a bit twistier, but at a reasonable pace it's well capable. It's at its best in town and does well on tight country roads too, where the compact dimensions make it easy to get around.
Out on the motorway, it has no problem keeping up with traffic but there is more road noise, which is common among small cars. It's generally comfortable by small car standards but the rear suspension can thud over imperfections in the road surface.
Is the MG3 fuel efficient?
The answer is yes! The MG3 Hybrid has a 1.5-litre petrol engine and a small 1.83kWh battery on board that allows the car at times to run on electric power only, boosting efficiency when driving around town. The official consumption figure is as low as 4.4 litres per 100 kilometres. In my test drive, my consumption averaged between about 4.5 and 4.6 litres per 100 kilometres.
How much does it cost?
The MG3 is very well-priced for the Irish market at a time when even small cars have become pricier to buy. The range starts at €22,995 for the Essence, from €24,745 for the Excite and from €26,745 for the Excellence.
Verdict
MG in Ireland has really hit its stride with strong sales of the popular MG4, but the new MG3 is just as convincing for buyers who feel more comfortable driving a hybrid car without the need for charging.
It looks good and is well-appointed inside for its price. It's also packed with equipment. Rear seating space and a modest boot may limit its appeal as a small family car but if it does work for you, it's a charming little car overall.
At a time when small cars have become very expensive, the MG3 manages to offer great value and is definitely worth a look if you're looking for a small hybrid car.
Pros: Lively hybrid, efficiency, better priced than rivals, well-equipped.
Cons: Not so much fun to drive, rear passenger space.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG Cyberster Preview | MG's new electric sports car
Caroline was in Dublin for a special preview of the new MG Cyberster hosted by MG Motor Ireland.
What is it?
The MG Cyberster is MG's new two-door, electric roadster. It's expected in Ireland this summer. It will likely be available with the choice of single motor, rear wheel drive or dual motor, all wheel drive. It will be powered by a 77kWh battery with a range in the region of 500 km and 0-100kmh in less than five seconds. It was created in MG’s design studio in Marylebone, London lead by Carl Gotham and draws inspiration from MG's heritage. It has classic sports car design cues like a long bonnet and low nose. Design highlights include scissor doors and a Kammback rear design. It's fitted with dramatic 20-inch alloy wheels.
Why is it in the news?
These days MG is more famous for affordable hatchbacks and SUVs like the MG4 and the MG ZS. The new Cyberster marks a serious departure for the MG brand, now under Chinese ownership, and a return to its sports car roots - but electrified for a new generation of sports car fans. MG is of course an historic British brand, famous for two seat roadsters like the MGB. It celebrates 100 years in car production in 2024. In the 1990s, the MGF was a successful return to sports cars for the brand at a time when two-seat convertibles were still very popular. These days, not so much. But the Cyberster will help reconnect MG with its sports car heritage and act as a halo car to make the brand cool again.
How much will it cost?
Pricing is yet to be confirmed but we can expect the Cyberster to go on sale in the region of €70,000.
Watch my video preview of the new Cyberster.
MG5 Review (2023)
Read Caroline’s MG5 review for everything you need to know about buying MG’s electric estate in Ireland.
While the newly launched MG4 has been grabbing all the headlines this year, it's the brand's larger MG5 model that will offer you even more space and comfort at a competitive price.
Styled as an estate car, the MG5 is powered by a 61 kWh battery with a range of up to 403 kilometres (WLTP) and a starting price of €37,395.
The MG5 has also recently been facelifted and refreshed inside for 2023 so it's definitely worth a closer look.
Styling
The MG5 was one of the brand's first models to go on sale when MG launched in the market in Ireland in late 2020. It offers the traditional style and space of an estate car and slots into the MG range above the MG4. For 2023, the MG5 gets the new face of the MG brand with a redesigned nose and slim LED headlights that brings it right up to date. There's now some real design cohesion emerging between models in the MG line-up and the MG5 benefits greatly from this facelift. The design is a little more generic around the mildly revised rear of the car.
In Ireland there are two trim levels for MG5: Excite and Exclusive. 16-inch alloy wheels with aero covers come as standard. Exclusive models get upgraded to a nicer 17-inch design - though they reduce the range to a maximum of 379 kilometres (WLTP).
Interior
MG has also updated the interior of the MG5 for 2023. It's also a very welcome update. The new dashboard design is more modern and stylish than before. The MG5 feels like a proper grown-up car from behind the wheel. There's a new 10-inch touchscreen that uses the same updated software as the new MG4. It is an improvement on the previous system and is easy enough to navigate, though the minimalist design means that the ventilation must be adjusted from the screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come as standard, which will be the preference for many to access music, maps and contacts. But during my time with the car I found it difficult to get a stable connection with Apple CarPlay.
Standard features for MG5 Excite include the MG Pilot advanced driver assistance system, air conditioning, driver's seat lumbar support, reversing camera, vehicle to load charging and the MG iSmart app connectivity.
The Exclusive adds features such as rear privacy glass, leather-style interior with electric seat adjustment and heated front seats, automatic climate control, rain sensing wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror and a 360-degree camera.
Practicality
There’s a natural sense of practicality to the MG5 because it’s an estate car. There's good legroom in the back and plenty of headroom for adults. There’s also 479 litres of boot space with the load cover in place, or 578 litres with it retracted. The MG5 might be a better option than the MG4 for buyers who need a big boot and more practicality.
Battery
There is just one battery available and it's the same as in the previous version of the MG5. The 61 kWh battery offers a range of up to 403 kilometres in the Excite model and up to 379 kilometres in the Exclusive model.
Charging
AC charging is possible up to 7 kW for a full charge in about 10 hours. DC charging is possible up to 87 kW for a full charge in about one hour.
Driving
The MG5 is front wheel drive and powered by a 156hp motor. There's 280Nm of torque and 0-100 km/h is a healthy 7.7 seconds, so the MG5 never feels under pressure to keep up with traffic or join motorways. It offers a big car feel from behind the wheel, secure and planted on the road, more comfortable and softer sprung than the MG4. It may not be as lively or nimble to drive, but it feels like a better cruiser overall. It's efficient for its size too, with my consumption over a week of driving averaging at about 16.3 kWh per 100 kilometres.
You can adjust the level of the regenerative braking to recover energy back into the battery. There are also three different driving modes - Normal, Sport and Eco - that adjust the drive somewhat depending on your preference.
Pricing
The MG5 Excite with a range of up to 403 kilometres is priced from €37,395. The MG5 Exclusive is priced from €40,645. All prices include the SEAI grant.
Verdict
MG has made serious progress in the Irish market since the brand launched here in 2020. While new models like the MG4 have been helping grow the brand, the MG5 still offers a sound package overall of comfort, technology and practicality in an estate-style body.
It's not quite as trendy or modern as the MG4 but the latest update has done wonders for the MG5. It looks far more interesting now and the interior is also more contemporary. It performs well as an EV with smooth operation and competitive range. What's more, in today's market the MG5 still offers a lot of car for the money.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG4 Review
Read Caroline's MG4 review for everything you need to know about buying MG's new electric hatchback in Ireland.
The MG4 has arrived in Ireland and is one of the most anticipated new cars of 2023.
MG has slowly been establishing itself in the Irish market since the end of 2020 with a new dealer network and a range of hybrid and electric vehicles like the MG ZS, MG HS and MG5.
But it's the new MG4 that looks set to really accelerate the growth of the MG brand in Ireland.
The MG4 comes to market with the choice of two batteries, with an electric driving range of up to 450 kilometres (WLTP) depending on model.
And the best bit? It's available in Ireland from just €27,495. Let's take a closer look.
Styling
The new MG4 looks great and is a step forward in design for the MG brand. The sleek, aerodynamic design is full of interesting design features that help to sharpen the MG4's presence on the road. The MG4 is available in two trim levels - Excite and Exclusive - and 17-inch alloy wheels and automatic LED headlights and rear lights come as standard. At the back, the slim LED rear lights help the MG4 to stand out, as does the dual wing roof spoiler on Exclusive models. The MG4 is a sporty looking hatchback like the Cupra Born and is available in a range of paint colours including some charismatic hues like Volcano Orange and Ocean Blue, as well as subtler shades like Urban Grey and Black Pearl.
Interior
The MG4 has one of the most modern interiors we have seen to date from the MG brand. The design follows the trend for an open and minimalist layout like the interiors of the Volkswagen ID.3 and Renault Megane E-Tech. There is a small digital instrument cluster for the driver and a large touchscreen comes as standard with a wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connection. The steering wheel has a modern two-spoke design. The modern cabin design frees up a lot of space between the two front seats, which the MG uses for some practical storage compartments and cup holders. The finish of the cabin is good for a car at this price. There are hard plastics but they blend in quite well, though a Cupra Born still feels like a plusher place to be. The part synthetic leather seats with blue stitching in the MG4 Exclusive look good too.
Standard features for MG4 Excite include the MG Pilot advanced driver assistance system, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise
control, automatic climate control and the MG iSmart app connectivity.
The MG4 Exclusive adds an upgraded MG Pilot system (Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, two-tone roof, rear privacy glass, electrically adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats and steering wheel, 360-degree camera, wireless phone charging and an upgraded MG iSmart system compatible with live services.
Practicality
The MG4 is styled as a five-door hatchback. It's the first MG to be built on a dedicated electric vehicle platform and that ensures a spacious interior for a car of this size. In the back seat there is generous legroom and a mostly flat floor making the car more comfortable for rear seat passengers.
The boot offers 363 litres of space, which is not far off the Volkswagen ID.3 (385 litres). But a Nissan Leaf (420 litres) and Renault Megane E-Tech (440 litres) offer considerably more. It's reasonable for a hatchback but there is no clever place under the boot floor to store the storage cables or under the front bonnet.
Battery
The MG4 Excite is available with a choice of 51kWh battery (350km WLTP range) or 64kWh (450km WLTP range). The MG4 Exclusive is available with the 64kWh battery only and can drive electric for a range of up to 435km (WLTP).
Exclusive models add the Active Grille Shutter System, which regulates air flow to improve aerodynamic efficiency.
Charging
The MG4 64kWh allows DC fast charging up to 135kW and it takes 9 hours to charge the battery from a 7kW wallbox.
Driving
The MG4 is the first MG to be built on the brand's new MSP platform from its parent company SAIC Motor. It's a dedicated EV platform with 50:50 weight distribution, a rear-wheel drive configuration and a low centre of gravity from the battery design and its placement in the car.
On the road the MG4 feels light, swift and fun to drive for a compact electric vehicle - whether you go for the 51kWh (170hp) or 64kWh (204hp) battery versions. It grips the road well, and feels agile when the roads get twistier. It is a firmly sprung car so you will be aware of any imperfections in the road surface beneath you, even on the motorway. Refinement could be better with a fair bit of wind noise at high speeds. Some compact electric vehicles like the Volkswagen ID.3 and Cupra Born offer more comfort and refinement.
Pricing
The MG4 Excite 51kWh Standard Range is priced from €27,495. The MG4 Excite 64kWh Long Range is priced from €30,995 and the MG4 Exclusive 64kWh Long Range is priced from €34,495. All prices include the SEAI grant.
Verdict
The new MG4 is shaking up the market for compact electric vehicles with excellent pricing and competitive battery range that makes this car very appealing. Standard equipment levels are high across the range and the MG4's sharp styling really stands out. The MG4 is one of the most desirable cars the MG brand has brought to market so far and is sure to become a popular sight on Irish roads.
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
MG5 EV Review (2022)
Read Caroline's MG5 review for everything you need to know about buying MG's electric estate car in Ireland in 2022.
MG returned to Ireland at the end of 2020 with a new suite of electrified vehicles. Under a new distributor, the brand has launched three new models here - the MG ZS electric SUV previously reviewed for Changing Lanes, the MG HS plug-in hybrid SUV, and this, the MG5, an all-electric estate car for the Irish market.
Now in 2022, MG has updated the ZS and the MG5 with a new long range battery to give buyers more comfort and convenience behind the wheel.
The MG5 launched in Ireland for the first time in 2021 with a 52.5 kWh battery giving a range of up to 345 km (WLTP).
It's replaced now by the MG5 EV Long Range with a 61 kWh battery that bumps the range up to 403 km (WLTP) - and the price. It's now available from €30,645.
Let's take a closer look.
What's so special about the MG5?
Well first of all it's an estate car, and an electric one at that. For the moment it's the only electric estate car you can buy on the Irish market.
We don't hear much about estate cars these days as the market is obsessed with SUVs and crossovers. Yet estate cars were always the default choice for buyers seeking a lifestyle vehicle that can fit the dog and some gear. While also giving a more active image than a saloon or hatchback.
But SUVs these days seem to capture most of that market. Though it's debatable how well they fit the brief for space and practicality.
The new MG5 has the classic silhouette of an estate car and is discreet in its styling. It's clearly not as trendy as the MG ZS, which has more fashionable SUV styling. But it's cheaper to buy and gets almost as much range on a full charge.
The MG5 sits quite low for an electric car, with the water-cooled battery pack integrated into the car’s chassis. There are dynamic benefits here too, with the low centre of gravity influencing how the car feels on the road.
With pricing starting from €30,645 for the Excite model and from €33,895 for the Exclusive model with more equipment on board, the MG5 remains affordable in today's EV market.
What's it like to drive?
The MG5 EV Long Range on test uses a 61.1 kWh battery with up to 403 km (WLTP) of range available. There's a 115 kW motor on board, equivalent to 156 hp.
The performance figures are good and the MG5 feels swift and responsive on the road. It is agile and simple to drive with a very conventional layout to the controls used to operate the vehicle and monitor its progress. The low centre of gravity means it feels planted at all times, behaving in a natural way in response to driver inputs.
The car is comfortable in driving on its 16" wheels and will cruise happily on the motorway. In that way it can't be faulted. The MG5 is predictable in charging and there are no massive drops in range when you get it out on the motorway.
Ownership of the electric MG5 of course will mean acquainting yourself very quickly with charging. With a 7 kW wallbox installed at home for example, a full charge can be got in about 9.5 hours or overnight.
The MG5 is also equipped with a CCS charging port so can avail of fast charging, gaining 80% in about an hour from a public 50 kW fast charge point. The charging port is easily accessed from the front of the car behind the MG badge.
From a 100 kW rapid charger, it will take about 40 minutes to charge the MG5 to 80%
What's it like inside?
Inside the MG5 there is a traditional dashboard layout with all the controls logically laid out. The cabin is nicely appointed for the price point of the vehicle. The layout and design is more traditional than avant garde. But the rotary gear selector on the centre console is a neat feature.
Standard equipment includes the 8" colour touchscreen and Android Auto/Apple Car Play, auto air con, parking sensors and rear view camera. There's also a full suite of safety equipment 'MG Pilot' including lane keep assist, lane departure warning, traffic jam assist and high beam assist.
The MG5 Exclusive has plenty of nice features like heated front seats, keyless entry and electrically adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support.
However, it doesn't get MG's latest infotainment system as seen in the new MG ZS, which is more modern and responsive. Or a digital instrument cluster for that matter.
There's a natural sense of practicality to the MG5 because it's an estate car. Rear legroom is good for the C-segment also. There's plenty of headroom from that tall roof line.
Buyers will be pleased to note that there's 464 litres of space available up to the luggage cover, or 578 litres up to the roof. Other advantages include a wide loading area. There is a bit of a lip between the boot opening and the boot floor. A flat loading area would have been an even greater advantage and more practical for an estate car. The rear seats also split fold 60:40 for even more space.
Did you like it?
Estate cars often get overlooked in favour of SUVs. But the MG5 is a practical family car that just happens to be electric too.
Still, the MG5 lacks contemporary style and does feel a generation behind in terms of its styling and interior. It does without MG's latest interior digital technology and app. But thankfully it's not behind in battery technology and charging.
The new battery in the MG5 gives buyers that little bit more comfort between charges. The MG5 behaves in a predictable way on the road, with high equipment levels and a comfortable ride.
Though the entry price into the range has gone up, the MG5 still offers a lot of car for the money in today's market. It undercuts the more fashionable MG ZS on price.
At a time when it's getting even more expensive to run and own a fuel car, the MG5 is a good value entry into electric motoring.
Model tested: MG5 EV Exclusive
Price: €30,645
Battery: 61.1 kWh
Power: 156 hp
Torque: 260 Nm
Top speed: 185 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.7 seconds
Motor Tax: €120 per year
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Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes
MG ZS EV Review (2022)
Read Caroline's MG ZS EV review for everything you need to know about buying MG's compact electric SUV in Ireland in 2022.
MG made a return to Ireland in 2020 with the launch of a new line-up of electric and hybrid cars. The MG ZS electric was the first to launch here and has been joined by the MG HS plug-in hybrid SUV and the MG5 electric estate car.
But the MG ZS seems a particularly well-placed car in the Irish market, combining the trend for SUVs with an electric powertrain.
Now MG has given the ZS EV a facelift and a new battery with a significant increase to range, which bodes well for this SUV. The ZS EV will continue to be offered in two trim levels, Excite and Exclusive.
What's new for the 2022 MG ZS EV?
On sale in Ireland priced from €32,995, including the SEAI grant and VRT relief, the MG ZS EV for 2022 has a new 72.6 kWh battery with a range up to 440 km (WLTP).
This replaces the first edition of the ZS EV, which launched with a 44.5 kWh battery and a range of 263 km (WLTP). The starting price has gone up, but the MG ZS offers that bit more comfort now on a full charge.
The MG ZS EV has a quite conventional look for an electric compact SUV. But the facelift has certainly given it a more modern and confident stance. That's mostly down to the new front end design. There's a closed, stamped-effect grille for the very first time, which helps the car stand out more. Especially in a bright colour like the Brilliant Blue of the test car!
This design feature is said to improve aerodynamics but it also now houses a more on-trend, side-opening charging port. It feels a bit sturdier than the access point on the previous version of the car that was positioned behind the MG badge.
LED headlights and distinctive daytime running lights also feature, as does a redesigned rear bumper and new wheel designs.
Inside the MG ZS EV
The revamp continues inside the 2022 MG ZS EV. The cabin of the MG ZS has a nice snug and sporty feeling from behind the wheel. It's quite a mature design for a B-segment SUV.
This new version gets a significant upgrade when it comes to the infotainment and digital technology on board. There's a new digital instrument cluster for the driver. The 10.1-inch tablet-style touchscreen has new graphics and improved functionality. It looks better than the previous version and is more responsive.
There's also a new iSMART connectivity system, which offers connection via a dedicated smartphone app for the first time. Features in the app include remote locking and unlocking, setting the air conditioning and heating, and activating the windscreen demister. Charging status and statistics can be viewed through the app, and you can also instantly stop or start a charge, and schedule charging.
There's also wireless phone charging, as well as the first over the air (OTA) software updates from MG, including new features and improvements.
The MG ZS EV is a generously sized small SUV for the B segment. There is lots of headroom and large windows make the cabin bright and welcoming. The rear will seat three, though it will be most comfortable for two. The rear footwells are a decent size for this class of vehicle too.
There are plenty of handy storage spaces in the cabin. Buyers will find a good boot of 470 litres. The split folding rear seats enable you to expand this to 1,116 litres. Charging cables can be stored neatly under the boot floor leaving the boot clear of any apparel.
What are my options?
The ZS EV Excite model, priced from €32,995 (after grant and VRT relief) comes with automatic air conditioning, bi-function LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and push-button start, 360 parking camera, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, sat nav, iSMART infotainment system and multiple USB charging points.
The Exclusive model, priced at €35,995 (after grant and VRT relief), adds a full panoramic roof and leather-style seats, along with more comfort and convenience options such as roof rails, heated front seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment, rain-sensing wipers and wireless phone charging.
MG’s suite of driver assistance technology also features. MG Pilot includes Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Traffic Jam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Intelligent High Beam Assist. The Exclusive model also gets Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist.
The 2022 MG ZS is the first fully electric vehicle in the MG range to offer towing capability. A 500kg towing capacity means owners can now attach small trailers or fit a bicycle carrier.
The new MG ZS EV is also equipped with a V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) system as standard. This allows the battery to supply energy to an external electrical system via a charging cable with a type 2-plug on one side that fits into the car’s charging socket, and a power strip with household sockets on the other side. Ideal for powering a kettle, cooling box, e-bike, laptop, electric scooter or even another electric car!
Driving the MG ZS Electric
On the road, the MG ZS EV makes good progress, moving effortlessly from town to motorway. Steering is light and the MG ZS feels agile through bends. It's generally comfortable on the smooth stuff for a compact SUV, though you will feel the bumps over rough surfaces in town or rural roads.
The new 72.6 kWh battery gives this latest MG ZS a clear advantage over the previous version. The WLTP range is now 440 km, with 156 hp available. From my experience, the MG ZS will comfortably return over 350 km in mixed driving, which makes all the difference between charges.
Regenerative braking also features and the automatic transmission can be set to Eco, Normal or Sport mode.
The combination Type 2 and CCS charger provides up to 7kW fast charging using the on-board AC charger, or up to 76kW DC rapid charging. The new MG ZS EV can reach an 80% charge in about 40 minutes from a 100kW rapid charger, about 1 hour from a 50kW charger, and a 100% charge in about 10.5 hours using a 7kW charger at home.
Did you like it?
The latest MG ZS EV is more than just a facelift, with the new battery giving this car more flexibility and appeal.
Yes the price has gone up since the MG ZS first entered the Irish market. But with more range, the new MG ZS 72.6 kWh gives buyers more comfort between charges. It is also still competitively priced among a still rather limited market of small electric SUVs.
The new front end design also lifts the ZS considerably for more style and presence on the road. The interior update makes this car more user-friendly, along with the addition of the new app and new interesting technology features like vehicle to load charging for the first time.
The MG ZS EV has become a more familiar sight on Irish roads in just over one year since launch. This new version will help the brand to establish itself even more among buyers in the market for a new electric car.
Model tested: MG ZS EV Exclusive
Price: €35,995
Battery: 72.6 kWh
Power: 156 hp
Torque: 206 Nm
0-100km/h: 8.4 seconds
Top speed: 175 km/h
CO2 emissions: 0 g/km
Motor Tax: €120 per year
____________________________
Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes
MG ZS Updated For 2022
Following on from the launch of the MG brand in Ireland in late 2020, MG Motor Ireland has confirmed the arrival of an updated MG ZS to the Irish market.
The MG ZS was the brand's first model to launch here in 2020. The all-electric compact SUV now gets renewed styling, more range and more technology for 2022.
Pricing for the new ZS will start from €31,995, including SEAI grant and VRT relief. It will arrive in Irish MG dealerships in December.
The MG ZS is now available with a 72.6 kWh battery that gives a range of up to 440 km (WLTP). The ZS will continue to be offered in two trim levels, Excite and Exclusive.
There is a new front end, with a stamped effect grille to improve aerodynamics and a new side-opening charging port. LED headlights and distinctive daytime running lights also feature, as does a redesigned rear bumper and new wheels.
Charging status is now easily viewed on the four stage indicator LEDs inside the charging port. The combination Type 2 and CCS charger provides up to 7kW fast charging using the on-board AC charger, or up to 76kW DC rapid charging (depending on climatic conditions).
This means the Long Range 72.6kWh battery can be charged from 0-100% in 10½ hours on a standard 7kW charger, or up to 80% in 42 minutes on a 100kW rapid charger. With Vehicle-to-Load capability now available as standard, buyers can even charge or power
other external equipment, for example, an electric bike, using an accessory charging cable.
Inside there is a new iSMART connectivity system, which offers connection via a dedicated smartphone app. Owners will benefit from new convenience features in the app to remotely lock and unlock the car, set the air conditioning and heating, and activate the windscreen demister when required. Charging status and statistics can be viewed through the app, and owners can also instantly stop or start a charge, and schedule charging to optimise lower rate energy.
The 10.1-inch tablet-style touchscreen has new graphics and improved functionality. The latest MG ZS also gets a new digital instrument cluster and wireless phone charging, as well as the first over the air (OTA) software updates from MG. Owners
will receive any new software updates, including new features and improvements, through iSMART.
The ZS EV Excite model, priced from €31,995 (after grant and VRT relief) comes with automatic air conditioning, bi-function LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and push-button start, vehicle-to-load charging, 360 parking camera, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, sat nav, iSMART infotainment system and multiple USB charging points.
The Exclusive model, priced at €34,995 (after grant and VRT relief), adds a full panoramic ‘Sky Roof’ and leather-style seats, along with more comfort and convenience options such as roof rails, heated front seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment, rain-sensing wipers and
wireless phone charging.
MG’s suite of driver assistance technology also features. MG Pilot includes Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Traffic Jam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Intelligent High Beam Assist. The Exclusive model also gets Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist.
The 2022 MG ZS is the first fully electric vehicle in the MG range to offer towing capability. A 500kg towing capacity means owners can now attach small trailers or fit a bicycle carrier.
