New 2025 MG ES5 SUV breaks cover in China

MG Motor has launched an all-new small SUV called the MG ES5 in China that is hotly tipped to be rebranded and sold as the MG ZS EV in Australia.

Better still, in China the advanced new small SUV offers buyers the heady combination of a range of up to 525km and bargain-basement pricing that kicks off at just $20,000.

Based on its parent SAIC’s next-generation Nebula pure-electric architecture, despite its ultra-low pricing the MG ES5 comes with a sophisticated five-link rear suspension system for better ride and handling.

Measuring in at 4476mm long, 1849mm wide and standing 1621mm tall, the ES5 has a 2730mm wheelbase and is said to weigh between 1685-1720kg.

Those dimensions mean the new ZS will be considerably bigger than the outgoing EV, measuring in at 153mm longer, 40mm wider but standing around 4mm lower than the outgoing car.

When it comes to its looks, the ES5 face gains a pair of slim headlamps that sit over an arrowhead second light cluster that live above two large lower air intakes, for an overtly sporty look that picks up where the MG4 hatch left off.

At the rear there are interlinked Y-shaped rear taillamps and the option of either 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels.

Initially, there will be just one powertrain on offer, a single e-motor that delivers 125kW and 250Nm of torque.

With that power, MG says 0-100km/h takes 8 seconds, while top speed is 170km/h.

Two lithium iron phosphate batteries will be available – one with 49.1kWh that will provide for a range of 425km and a larger 62.2kWh power pack that provides for the full 525km – although both are recorded on the lenient CLTC Chinese test cycle.

Maximising space within, MG claims that the new CATL-developed battery is the world’s thinnest at 110mm thick.

Within, the sporty exterior is reflected with a flat-bottom steering wheel and a full digital instrument cluster and large infotainment screen.

Practicality has been enhanced by a new floating centre console  that provides two cupholders and plenty of space to store items below and is said to incorporate at least one wireless charger. Chinese-spec models also boast a full-width panoramic roof.

Globally, the new MG ZS EV will be introduced alongside the MG ZS hybrid, which is a completely unrelated car, sitting on a different platform and coming with the latest MG3 hatch’s powertrain that, in its highest output, delivers 155kW and 250Nm or torque.

On sale in China before the end of this year, it’s thought the all-new MG ES5 will be renamed the MG ZS EV and be available in the Australian market in the first half of 2025.

When the all-new MG ZS EV does land in Australia expect its price to be inflated to at least the same $35,000 drive-away as the run-out model.