The new MGS5 is being launched in Singapore on 9 April. Ahead of its official market introduction, we headed up to Shanghai, China, to get a preview. 

Here are five key things that you need to know about the MGS5: 

A 2,730mm wheelbase offers impressive interior space, and along with a low battery height, maximises cabin space for rear passengers

1. Its size

The MGS5 is a new entrant in the highly competitive compact electric SUV market. For Singapore, it marks MG's fourth battery electric vehicle (BEV) introduction. The MGS5 measures 4,476mm long, 1,849mm wide and 1,633mm tall, making it longer than the Hyundai Kona EV (4,355mm) and BYD Atto 3 (4,455mm), but shorter than the newly-launched Aion V (4,605mm) and premium competitor Hyundai Ioniq 5 (4,635mm). Within MG's lineup, it sits above the current MG ZS EV. Built on the electric Modular Scalable Platform, the MGS5 has a 2,730mm wheelbase, promising improved cabin space and stability. The wheelbase gives it a 10mm edge over the BYD Atto 3. 

The slant-chequered DRLs, split headlamps and front splitter give the MGS5 a mean demeanour, with traces of the MG 4's design peeking through

2. Its battery

The MGS5 is powered by a 62kWh CATL LFP battery, offering a 420km WLTP range. It supports 150kW DC fast charging, allowing a 10-80% charge in just 26 minutes. MG attributes this speed to an innovative battery layout that minimises heat buildup, enabling a battery thickness of just 110mm - lower than a 330ml Coke can (115mm). To back its reliability, MG offers a 10-year/200,000km battery warranty. The same low-floor battery technology was also used in the MG Cyberster roadster, enabling a sleek, low-slung design while housing a substantial 77kWh battery pack.

The MGS5 features a frontal camera and rear millimetre-wave radars for driving assistance

3. Its power

One of the MG 4's most pertinent characteristics is its drive - as a rear-motor, rear-wheel drive electric hatchback, despite being engineered to fit within the Category A COE powerband. The MGS5 also features a 99kW single rear-mounted, rear-wheel drive motor setup, producing 250Nm of instant electric torque, allowing for more exciting cornering exits, while most other segment-peers are front-wheel drive. The MGS5 accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.9 seconds.

The MGS5 features a lush, minimalist interior filled with soft-touch touchpoints and a passive, muted colourway, and has a 10.25-inch instrument cluster fitted neatly in the dashboard

4. Its safety

The MGS5 has seven airbags for its occupants, including side curtain airbags and a central airbag. It also features MG Pilot, an ADAS system utilising a front camera and rear millimetre-wave radars. Notably, while the Chinese variant opts for a large touchscreen with no physical controls, the Singapore model retains a smaller infotainment screen and physical buttons for better tactile control without distracting the driver.

The MGS5 (left) and MG ZS Hybrid+ (right) are the next MG models set to enter Singapore

5. Its comfort

The rear-wheel drive setup ensures an engaging driving experience, but comfort hasn't been sacrificed. Rear passengers benefit from a five-link rear suspension, effectively absorbing road imperfections. The 2,730mm wheelbase provides ample rear legroom, while the 1.19m² panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of space. Crucially, an electric sunroof cover is included - a must-have for Singapore's hot climate to keep the cabin cool.

How will it fare in Singapore? 

In Singapore, Category A COE compliance is key, and MG has prioritised this with the S5's Cat A powertrain from the outset, unlike many rivals that launch higher-powered variants first, followed by a Cat A version months later. With one of the largest footprints in the Cat A EV SUV segment, the MGS5 has strong potential - if the price is right.