The ES5 is bigger and sleeker than its predecessor. It's built on the same EV-dedicated platform as the MG4 hatchback. This new SUV stretches 4,476 mm in length, making it 162 mm longer than the ZS EV. Most of this extra length goes to the wheelbase, which measures 2,730 mm.
The design of the ES5 features a clean look. The front sports a grille-less face with bumper intakes that remind us of the MG Cyberster roadster. The headlights are split LED units, slimmer and more aggressive than before. While the profile is rather generic, the rear shows off full-width taillights similar in shape to those on the MG4.
Inside, drivers will find a flat-bottom steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, and a large infotainment touchscreen. The center console floats, adding to the modern feel of the interior.
MG ES5
Under the hood, or rather, under the floor, the ES5 packs a single electric motor at the rear axle. It delivers 170 hp (125 kW) and 250 Nm of torque. The car uses SAIC-MG's Modular Scalable Platform (MSP). We're not sure yet if dual-motor versions will be available.
The battery is an ultra-slim lithium iron phosphate unit made by a joint venture between SAIC and CATL. In China, buyers can choose from three battery options. The largest, at 62.2kWh, offers a range of 525 km under CLTC protocols.
We can expect to see the ES5 in export markets around 2025. It'll go up against compact SUVs like the Kia EV4 and Peugeot E-2008.
As for the current ZS EV, it's on its way out. A new generation is planned for 2025, but it'll only come as a hybrid. The all-electric option will be dropped, with the ES5 stepping in to fill that role.
Source: MG
