Both battery sizes provide a useful range for the price
Despite its budget billing, MG hasn't skimped on the 5 EV's standard battery. At 52.5kWh, it’s larger than the 40kWh pack fitted in a standard Nissan Leaf and gives the MG a range of up to 199 miles. If you mainly do shorter journeys with just the occasional long trip, this version will be absolutely sufficient.
MG 5 range and charging
During our test drive of a pre-facelift 52.5kWh model, the MG had a range of 191 miles on its readout, or 205 if we switched into Eco mode. This limits the power available to help preserve range but the car is still perfectly usable. The driver can also choose between three levels of regenerative braking, which ramp up the deceleration as you come off the accelerator, putting more energy back into the batteries.
In July 2021, a larger, long-range battery model was made available. According to official figures, this increases range to 250 miles, which should give the MG 5 a real-world range of well over 200 miles in most conditions. As is the case with any electric car, expect fewer miles between charges in winter, because batteries don’t operate as efficiently in colder weather.
Facelifted cars can charge at 70kW (standard model) or 87kW for the Long Range version. We were initially impressed that such an affordable EV came with rapid charging at all (50kW charging was standard on earlier models). Charging at the maximum 87kW, the Long Range MG 5 can top up from 10 to 80% in 40 minutes, while a full charge from a home wallbox can be done while you’re asleep. Using a three-point plug is possible but best saved for emergencies, as a full charge will take around 18 hours.
One of the biggest benefactors of the 5 EV could be the company-car crowd, because its zero emissions mean it qualifies for minimal Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax. It seems to have become a popular model with inner city taxi drivers, who need fast charging, long range and practicality. Private buyers will also benefit from free VED (road tax) – a saving of around £150 a year, along with tariff-free entry into low emissions zones.
Insurance groups
Insurance won’t be one of the MG 5’s cheapest running costs. 61kWh models sit in group 27 out of 50, which is four groups higher than a Volkswagen ID.3 with a similarly sized battery and more power.
Warranty
MGs benefit from a generous seven-year/80,000-mile warranty, which also covers the battery pack.
Servicing
The MG 5 needs servicing once a year or every 15,000 miles, whichever comes first. Some electric cars like the Skoda Enyaq iV can go two years between services. MG offers service plans to allow you to pay for a couple of services through monthly payments; your dealer will be able to give you an idea on how much this will cost.
Keyword: MG 5 EV estate - Range, charging & running costs