MG 5

The interior of the MG 5 is nothing flashy, and even bland for today’s standards since many newer-gen vehicles have livelier cabin layouts. In terms of comfort and functionality, however, this car certainly delivers. One of its main strengths is its class-leading spaciousness. It offers great second row leg and head rooms and can effectively accommodate five passengers in total. It also has a generous amount of trunk space for your baggage and groceries. Passengers of the CVT Style variant can also enjoy a 10-inch colour display touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth Handsfree, 2 USB ports, and the traditional AM/FM radio. Meanwhile, passengers of the MT Core variant have the 8-inch version. 

Comfort-wise, the MT Core and CVT Core are equipped with well-padded fabric seats. On the other hand, the top-of-the-line has MG leather style seats, which give its interior a more sophisticated vibe. Drivers of the MT Core and CVT Style variants also have access to leather-wrapped steering wheels. In terms of instrument cluster, the top variant is given a TFT Trip computer display, while the lower variants have the Mono Trip version. For an aesthetic layout that many Millennials and Gen Zs desire, the top variant also offers an electric sunroof. 

From the outside, the MG 5 has a unique sophisticated look that is definitely one of the most appealing in its segment. At the front, it sports a grille that has an elegant-looking chrome trim. Its MT Core and CVT Style variants are given LED DRLs, which give this sedan a premium flare both in the morning and especially at night. All variants have automatic on and off headlights. However, these are not LEDs, only projection Halogens with leveling. For a more expensive appearance, the MG 5 is also given power side mirrors with indicators. At the back, all variants are equipped with rear glass defoggers and huge taillamps that complement its bigger-than-most build. 

In terms of size, the MG 5 is 4,601 mm in length, 1,818 mm in width, and 1,489 mm in height. It has a 2,680 mm wheelbase. This car has a more dominant stance than most locally-available B-segment sedans simply because of its bigger stature.

All MG 5 variants utilize a MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion bar at the rear. This suspension system is responsible for this sedan’s reliability on the road. It has good absorption of bumps and a relatively light handling, making this car a comfortable vehicle for daily traveling. This car also offers a relatively quiet driving experience, minimizing outside noises that could creep inside the cabin. 

The MG 5 is powered by a 1.5L, DVVT engine that produces a maximum power output of 114 hp and a maximum torque of 150 Nm. The base variant runs on 5-speed manual transmission, while the two higher variants run on continuously variable transmission with manual mode for more control. Power-wise, this vehicle is more powerful than other locally-available B-segment sedans (like the Mitsubishi Mirage for example). However, more power doesn't mean that it gives a more exciting or sportier driving experience overall. Its engine has a tendency to be lackluster (or underwhelming) when you are driving it at high speeds. But, don’t get me wrong, the MG 5 is still reliable for both city and highway driving at the end of the day.

For a B-segment sedan, the MG 5 is impressive when it comes to its safety features. It has cruise control (which could be both a convenience and safety feature), rear parking sensors, reversing camera, tire pressure monitoring system, seat belt reminders, child lock and ISOFIX, and other standard safety and security features. 

In terms of braking, the MT variant utilizes a disc at the front and a drum at the rear, while the CVT variants utilize discs for both. All variants are equipped with an anti-lock braking system, electronic brakeforce distribution, cornering brake control, and brake assist. With this in mind, you can count on the MG 5 to bring you from point A to point B safely. 

The MG 5 doesn’t get credit enough for its class-leading spaciousness, equipment of advanced features that aren’t included in your typical B-segment sedan, and just its overall premium look. Getting this vehicle is certainly a practical choice since it has a cheaper starting price than its more popular ASEAN competitors, but it doesn’t get as much hate and judgment from the people.