- Rear-drive platform borrwed from the MG4.
- 'Elevated interior' with new 12.8in infotainment display.
- Expected arrival in New Zealand in late August.
MG New Zealand has confirmed the impending arrival of the all-new S5 EV - essentially the replacement for the ZS EV that took the maret by storm during the heady days of the Clean Car Discount.
Things have moved on since then of course, and the S5 EV is a very different car to the cheap-and-cheerful ZS EV. It's now based on the platform of the acclaimed MG4 (our Car of the Year for 2023), which also means a shift to rear-wheel drive.
The MGS5 EV is available in two battery sizes: 49kWh and 62kWh, and Excite and Essence variants available with both. This delivers WLTP range of 335-430km and allows charging from 30% to 80% in 19 minutes. Using MG’s Modular Scalable Platform, the S5 EV battery is just 110mm high, which helps with cabin packaging.
All variants make 125kW/250Nm, with 0-100km/h achieved between 8.2 and 8.6 seconds, depending on model.
The Excite 49 opens at $44,990, while the Excite 62 is $50,990. In both cases it's a $4k jump up to the more luxurious Essence modes.
The S5 EV comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto across the range and hands-free power tailgate on the Essence.
“The MGS5 EV will offer the best value for Kiwi families in the electric SUV segment," says Peter Ciao, chief executive officer for MG Motor Australia and NZ. "Our MG engineers have designed a beautiful looking car, featuring a great range of technology features as standard.
“New Zealanders loved the driving dynamics of the MG4, with these carried over to the MGS5 EV. Our love of an SUV, combined with MG’s upgraded tech features, mean the MGS5 EV is sure to be embraced by Kiwi motorists.
The MGS5 EV is backed with up to 10 years or 250,000km coverage when servicing with MG – 7 years unlimited km coverage is standard, plus the 3-year MG service-activated extension.
