MG S5 EV variants comparison: Which one to buy?

After several teasers and official previews, MG Motor Malaysia finally launched the S5 EV this week. This newly introduced MG EV adds serious competition to Malaysia’s growing entry-level EV market with its bold and modern aesthetics, rear-wheel drivetrain, and a generous feature list.

The MG S5 comes in three variants in Malaysia - Com, Com Long Range, and Lux Long Range, offering a slightly different set of features and battery packs that suit varying budgets and requirements. 

In today’s article, we are going to compare these variants in terms of price, dimensions, range and features, helping prospective buyers make an informed decision.

Price

The MG S5 price in Malaysia begins at RM 115,900 and goes up to RM 135,900. Each step up in the variant lineup costs an additional RM 10,000, reflecting the added set of features and other enhancements. 

The variant-wise pricing is as follows -

Variants	Price (on the road, without insurance)
MG S5 Com	RM 115,900
MG S5 Com Long Range	RM 125,900
MG S5 Lux Long Range	RM 135,900

Dimensions

In terms of size, all variants of the MG S5 EV are identical, offering the same cabin space and a similar level of comfort for passengers. The luggage capacity also remains the same, i.e. 453 litres with rear seats upright and 1,441 litres with rear seats folded down.

The variant-wise dimensions are as follows -

Specs	Com	Com Long Range	Lux Long Range
Length	4,476 mm	4,476 mm	4,476 mm
Width	1,849 mm	1,849 mm	1,849 mm
Height	1,621 mm	1,621 mm	1,621 mm
Wheelbase	2,730 mm	2,730 mm	2,730 mm
Boot space	453 litres (Expandable up to 1,441 litres)	453 litres (Expandable up to 1,441 litres)	453 litres (Expandable up to 1,441 litres)

Drivetrain, range, and charging

The MG S5 EV is powered by a 170 PS/250 Nm rear-wheel drive setup, which sets it apart from most other EVs in its segment, which typically feature front-wheel drive configurations due to cost-effectiveness and packaging advantages. Typically found in more premium models, RWD promises a sportier driving experience, improved handling dynamics, and better weight distribution.

All the variants of the EV are similar in terms of drive unit, however, battery capacity and range differ. The base-spec Com variant comes with a 49 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery, offering a WLTP-claimed range of 340 km. The mid-spec Com Long Range and top-spec Lux Long Range variants, on the other hand, equip a larger 62 kWh LFP unit with a cruising range of 430 km.

Check the detailed comparison below -

Variants	Com	Com Long Range	Lux Long Range
Electric motor	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive	Rear-wheel drive
Power	170 PS	170 PS	170 PS
Torque	250 Nm	250 Nm	250 Nm
Battery	49 kWh lithium-ion phosphate	62 kWh  lithium-ion phosphate	62 kWh lithium-ion phosphate
Range (WLTP)	340 km	430 km	430 km
Charging	7 kW AC 120 kW DC	7 kW AC 150 kW DC	7 kW AC 150 kW DC
Charging time	24 mins  (SoC 10-80% DC fast charging)	26 mins  (SoC 10-80% DC fast charging)	26 mins  (SoC 10-80% DC fast charging)

Features

All three variants of the new MG electric SUV are well-equipped with LED lighting units, modern technology and comfort features. The base-spec Com trim offers a strong value proposition with advanced bits like a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.8-inch infotainment unit, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto and advanced driving-assistance systems.

The mid-spec Com Long Range further enhances the experience with a few enhancements such as upgraded seat upholstery, power-adjustable seats and two additional speakers.

The top-spec Lux Long Range offers a more luxurious and tech-rich feel with a powered tailgate, panoramic sunroof, wireless phone charger, rear centre armrest, and a 360-degree surround view camera.

Here’s a detailed comparison of exterior, interior, and safety features -

Features	Com	Com Long Range (Over Com)	Lux Long Range (Over Com Long Range)
Exterior	Active grille system Automatic LED headlights with follow-me-home function LED daytime running lights  LED tail lights Power folding side mirrors Roof rails 17-inch alloy wheels		Powered tailgate with kick sensor Automatic rain-sensing wipers 18-inch alloy wheels Panoramic sunroof
Interior	12.8-inch touchscreen infotainment unit Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto 10.25-inch drivers’ digital display Single-zone automatic climate control Fabric upholstery Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Hold 6-way manually adjustable driver seat 4-way manually adjustable front passenger seat 3 Type-C USB ports 4-speaker sound system Reverse camera Vehicle-to-load	Leather and fabric combination upholstery 6-way power adjustable driver’s seat with manual lumbar support 6-speaker sound system	Wireless phone charger Rear reading lamp 360-degree surround view camera Rear centre armrest
Safety	7 airbags ESP, ABS Adaptive Cruise Control with Traffic jam assist Autonomous emergency braking Forward collision warning  Blind spot monitoring  Intelligent headlight control  Lane change assist  Lane departure warning  Lane keep assist  Rear cross traffic alert  Rear cross traffic braking Rear collision warning  Smart speed limit assist  Drowsiness monitor system Door opening warning

Which MG S5 EV variant should you choose?

The answer to this question boils down to your priorities and budget. 

If you're on a budget and range is not a major concern, the well-equipped S5 Com variant is a great choice as it offers advanced tech and safety features at an affordable price. 

However, if you prefer added range for peace of mind during longer commutes, the S5 Com Long Range is the better option. 

For those who want the best of everything the EV offers, the MG S5 Lux Long Range variant is the one to go for.

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