MG S5 EV makes PH debut

MANILA: The MG S5 EV (electric vehicle) has made its Philippine debut. 

It joins the growing segment of rear-wheel-drive electric compact cars, such as the Geely EX2 and the upcoming Chery QEV. 

On that note, here is a quick look at what early adopters would get. 

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Electrified powertrain

The country has seen an influx of compact EVs, but what sets the MG S5 EV apart from other electric nameplates is its rear-axle motor. 

Anyone who has driven a rear-wheel-propelled vehicle can tell that switching the driving axle can improve performance and handling. While front-wheel-driven cars are generally seen as practical daily drivers, those with power coming from the rear are typically sought for good weight distribution and better handling at high speeds. 

In the case of the MG S5 EV, it uses an electric motor that generates around 167 horsepower and 250 Newton-meters of torque. It is paired with a 49-kilowatt-hour lithium iron phosphate battery that allows emissions-free driving of up to 415 kilometers on a single charge. 

MG Philippines explained—during its “Next Wave” media drive where the MG S5 EV was previewed—that the rear-wheel drive layout and low center of gravity give the vehicle a planted feel. Agility and athleticism during high-speed driving situations are thanks to its multi-link rear suspension. 

Aerodynamic exterior

Building on its sporty rear-wheel drive layout, the vehicle’s exterior has been designed to be aerodynamic. 

At the fore are active grille shutters and functional air dams, while the side profile gets aerodynamic wheel panels. The rear end is fitted with a roof-mounted spoiler and a bumper with a diffuser-like design, which could be more for cosmetics than actual functionality. 

Speaking of which, aesthetic appointments that seem to anchor it to being touted as a sporty car include its “Checkered Flag” LED lights, streamlined silhouette, and low ground clearance. The cleanliness and lack of geometric panels on its body also reinforce its aerodynamic properties, which, according to MG Philippines, let the newly-released nameplate achieve a drag coefficient (Cd) of 0.28.

For comparison’s sake, crossovers usually clock in at Cd 0.36, while sedans are usually at around Cd 0.32. 

Minimalist cabin

Looking at the MG S5 EV’s cabin will make you think that it was designed by a team working in Sweden. Abundant are neutral-colored surfaces that seem to work well with the dashboard that appears to be free of clutter. 

For example, past the leather-wrapped steering wheel—with a flat top and a flat bottom—is a 10.25-inch instrument cluster housed flush in the dashboard under a faux carbon fiber trim. Just a few inches beside it is a similarly sized floating instrument cluster with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Underneath are small buttons for climate control and other onboard tech features. Tidying up the landscape is a rotary-type gear shifter with an open cubby just below it. Other notable features include a wireless charger. 

The seats are lined with fabric and leather, which seem to evoke a lounge-like atmosphere that makes the cabin appear calming. The MG S5 EV can accommodate up to five people. 

Safety

When it comes to safety, the MG S5 EV has the following to offer: 

• Autonomous emergency braking
• Adaptive cruise control
• Traffic jam assist
• Lane departure warning
• Lane keep assist
• Blind spot detection with lane change assist
• Intelligent speed limit
• Driver monitoring 

Pricing

Those who find the MG S5 EV appealing will be set back P1,448,888. However, those who get it before the introductory promo expires will only spend P1,408,888. 

Additionally, interested car buyers can watch out for MG Philippines’ Multiply Greatness Tour 2026, where they can get P10,000 off when they make a purchase during the roadshow. 

The rolling caravan starts now at the Trinoma Activity Center at Trinoma Mall in Quezon City (until August 30) and will head to different parts of the Philippines soon after. 

With report from Zigwheels Philippines

Also read:

MG 5’s newest trim is tech-heavy

MG PH opens ‘Carffé' at SM Mall of Asia

MG PH releases original song, ‘Coming Home’ 

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