Review: 2024 MG5 - Low expectations, big surprises?

When I first attended the MG5 launch back in October, I’ll be honest—my expectations were pretty low. Sure, the Nuclear Yellow paint job and that sleek, coupe-like design made it stand out, and the price was undeniably attractive.

But on paper, the specs didn’t really make it feel like a game-changer. Sometimes, though, cars have a way of surprising you, especially when you spend more time with them.

This past week, I’ve had the MG5 in my hands for a real test drive. It’s been my go-to for school runs, grocery shopping, a few highway stretches, and even a date night, putting it through the everyday paces.

And here’s the thing—it’s actually a car that grows on you. It’s not just another B-segment sedan; it has a unique character that sets it apart from the usual options.

If you’re looking for something different in this class, the MG5 is worth a closer look. Let’s dive into what makes it more than just a pretty face.

First Impressions: A Look that Turns Heads

Before we even get into the nuts and bolts of this car, I need to give a shout-out to the design. The MG5 isn’t just another compact sedan on the road.

It’s got a bold, distinctive grille with sleek headlights and an overall sporty stance that honestly feels refreshing. You could park it beside any other B-segment sedan, and it would easily stand out. 

It might sound like a stretch, but even when you park the MG5 next to a Porsche, it surprisingly holds its own. Normally, placing a B-segment sedan beside something as high-end as a Porsche would highlight the price difference immediately.

But with the MG5, it doesn’t feel as out of place as you’d expect. It’s got a presence and design flair that gives it a much more premium vibe than its price tag suggests.

MG’s design language here is anything but subtle. There’s a nice, flowing silhouette and sculpted lines that add an athletic vibe to the car.

It’s got this slightly aggressive front fascia that gives it character, almost as if it’s challenging the typical design norms. And the best part?

It doesn’t feel like they’ve just slapped on a few sporty elements to make it “look cool.” There’s a refinement to the design that’s quite impressive.

In Malaysia, where the B-segment is bustling with options, the MG5’s style is an asset, especially if you want something that feels fresh. This isn’t a car that blends into the background; it’s one that proudly stands out.

Stepping Inside: A Cabin that Mixes Style with Substance

Moving to the interior, MG hasn’t just stopped at the exterior. They’ve carried over that premium feel inside the cabin, which genuinely impressed me.

You’re greeted with a well-thought-out layout that’s both functional and stylish. The seats are comfortable with decent bolstering, so even on longer drives, I found myself settling in nicely.

Despite being laced with cheaper feeling materials, the dashboard has this modern look with a clean layout that’s easy to navigate. One standout feature here is the 7” digital instrument cluster. It’s clear, intuitive, and adds that modern touch that we’ve come to appreciate.

As for connectivity, you’ve got Apple CarPlay and Android Auto right out of the box via the 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is fantastic. In this day and age, seamless smartphone integration is practically a must, and MG delivers here.

And did I mention the sunroof? It’s a small touch, but it adds a bit of flair and brightness to the cabin. Especially during rainy days, it gives you a pleasant sense of openness, which is rare in the B-segment.

It’s not just about practicality here; MG’s thrown in a bit of pizzazz, and it works.

The Drive: A Surprising Blend of Comfort and Handling

Alright, let’s talk about driving dynamics. If there was one thing that caught me off guard, it was how well this car handles.

Most of us might approach a modern MG with some caution, not really knowing what to expect. But the MG5 delivers a driving experience that’s... surprising.

The steering is on the lighter side, and I know that might be a point of debate for some. Personally, I think it’s a plus, especially for city driving.

It’s agile, making it easy to navigate through tight lanes and handle U-turns effortlessly. But don’t let the light steering fool you—it still manages to be quite precise, which gives you confidence, especially on curvier roads.

The balance in the ride and handling here surprised me, considering its now Chinese home. MG’s heritage—built on cars that offered spirited driving—seems to be present in the MG5, and that’s a lovely surprise.

It’s as if SAIC wanted to remind us that while MG has joined the new wave of Chinese cars, they haven’t forgotten what made them unique in the first place.

Practicality Matters: Space and Comfort for the Everyday

Now, practicality is often where some cars start to show their compromises. Not here. The MG5 is thoughtfully spacious. My kids found the rear seats comfortable, with plenty of legroom for their school bags and other essentials.

And if you’re someone who does frequent grocery runs, you’ll appreciate the 401 litre boot space. It’s got enough room for a full load of groceries without needing to play Tetris with your shopping bags.

Sure the opening for the boot space is a bit small, but there’s enough space in there.

The MG5’s boot and rear seat room is not the most spacious in the B-segment, but whether you’re a young family or just need the occasional extra space, it’s ready to handle daily demands.

Safety: The elephant in the room

Now, let’s talk safety. There’s been a lot of talk around the MG5’s safety ratings, especially after a rival automaker took to social media in a publicity stunt to draw attention to its zero-star ANCAP rating.

But here's the full picture: while the MG5 tested in Australia was a base model with limited safety features, the MG5 available in Malaysia is a different story.

SAIC Motor Malaysia has clarified that the local MG5, sourced from Thailand, comes with added safety features that make a significant difference.

Firstly, the MG5 for Malaysia includes six airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and the MG Pilot driver assistance suite, features that are typically found in pricier models.

The MG Pilot suite is a robust system offering advanced safety tech like Lane Departure Warning to prevent unintentional drifting, Lane Change Assist for safer highway maneuvers, Blind Spot Detection, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert to keep you aware of obstacles and approaching traffic.

The seatbelt pre-tensioners are particularly crucial as they keep belts snug against the body in a crash, optimizing the protection from airbags and preventing occupants from slipping under the seatbelt.

This isn’t just a small addition—it’s a significant upgrade that improves real-world safety. Other essentials, such as ABS, EBD, traction control, and cornering brake control, are also included, creating a solid foundation of active and passive safety.

Although the Malaysian MG5 lacks AEB, the suite of features it does offer stands out especially where many cars at this price point don’t come close to matching its safety setup.

All in all, the MG5 in Malaysia brings significant safety enhancements compared to the entry-level model in Australia. 

Ownership Perks: Long Warranty and Manageable Maintenance

One of the best parts about the MG5, especially for the Malaysian market, is the 7-year powertrain warranty.

Let that sink in—seven years of peace of mind. In this segment, that’s practically unheard of.

For anyone who’s on the fence about the long-term reliability of a car brand that’s relatively new to the local market, this warranty can be a game-changer.

Plus, the service intervals are straightforward, and you’re not likely to encounter sky-high costs to keep it in good shape. MG’s approach here feels like a gesture of goodwill, a way to instill confidence in its customer base.

The Verdict: A Fresh, Stylish, and Surprisingly Capable Choice

So, after a week with the MG5, what’s the final word? Honestly, I came into this with mixed expectations. I wasn’t sure if the MG5 would deliver on the driving experience or if it would be all style without substance.

But after clocking in those miles and putting it through daily routines, I’m genuinely impressed.

The MG5 is stylish, spacious, and, most importantly, fun to drive. It’s not a powerhouse, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s a car that strikes a nice balance between everyday practicality and a dash of personality, something rare in the B-segment.

If you’re looking for a sedan that goes beyond the basics—one that offers style, a comfortable cabin, and a smooth driving experience—the MG5 is worth checking out.

It’s comfortable, practical, and has a vibe that’s different from the usual B-segment options. It may not be turbocharged, but for daily drives and a bit of weekend fun, it brings something fresh to the table. And in a market filled with options, that’s saying something.

MG has made a compelling case here. So if you’re in the market for a B-segment sedan that’s got style, and surprising capability, don’t sleep on the MG5. Give it a look, take it for a drive—you might just find yourself as surprised as I was.

MG5 Specifications

• Drivetrain: 1.5-litre N/A Petrol
• Power Output: 114 PS
• Torque: 150 Nm
• Transmission: CVT with 8-speed virtual gearing
• Seats: 5

Price: RM 86,900 (introductory offer)