2025 MG 5 Sedan Facelift: Updated Look and Advanced Safety Features

The 2025 MG 5 sedan has received a facelift overseas, bringing with it a fresh design and enhanced technology. However, it's unclear when or if this updated model will make its way to Australian shores. Historically, updates for MG models such as the MG ZS and HS have taken between one to three years to arrive in international markets, and the same delay might apply to the facelifted MG 5.

No Facelift for Australia in 2024

According to a spokesperson from MG Motor Australia, the facelifted MG 5 will not be arriving in Australia this year. However, the brand has committed to introducing safety enhancements to the current MG 5 model, expected to roll out "during or before" the first quarter of 2025. These upgrades are part of MG's ongoing efforts to improve safety and meet evolving standards set by ANCAP (Australasian New Car Assessment Program).

“It is important that we communicate transparently that there is no facelift for MG5 surfacing this year. We are still on track to deliver the MG5 Safety Pack upgrade during or before Q1, 2025. We anticipate the additional safety will bring the current rating to a higher level," said the spokesperson.

MG has invested $4 million into these revisions, which will include structural modifications and advanced crash-avoidance features. These enhancements aim to improve the MG 5's safety rating and overall competitiveness in the market.

Planned Safety Enhancements

The planned upgrades for the MG 5 are extensive and designed to significantly enhance occupant and pedestrian safety. Structural improvements include a calf protection panel under the front bumper for better pedestrian safety, a “forward impact sensor,” and enhanced seatbelts with pre-tensioners for all seats, dynamic load tensioners, and an occupant monitoring system.

Active safety features will also be upgraded, with the introduction of lane-keep assist, traffic sign recognition with speed-limit assist, more advanced autonomous emergency braking (AEB) with junction-turning detection, and safe exit warnings. These additions will align the MG 5 with more stringent safety expectations and enhance its appeal in the market.

New Look and Interior Upgrades

The facelifted MG 5 sedan features a refreshed design that draws inspiration from the new MG 3 hatchback. Updates include a larger grille, redesigned headlights and taillights, a new front bumper, and a repositioned MG badge on a revised bonnet with distinctive creases. The rear of the vehicle has also been updated with new alloy wheel designs, a different rear bumper, and a body-colored lower diffuser.

Inside, MG has overhauled the dashboard, introducing a larger 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and revised air vents. The facelifted model also features a new central triangular engine start/stop button, a redesigned gear selector, and what appears to be a wireless phone charger. The hard keys for climate and audio controls have been made smaller and are now positioned directly below the infotainment screen. Additionally, the door panels have been redesigned with repositioned handles for a more ergonomic feel.

Pricing and Market Position

Price increases are likely to accompany the future updates to the MG 5, particularly with the introduction of the planned safety enhancements and the facelifted model once it reaches Australia. Currently, the MG 5 is priced from $25,990 drive-away for the entry-level Vibe, which comes with a non-turbo 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and continuously variable transmission (CVT). The top-of-the-line Essence variant, featuring a turbocharged version of the 1.5-litre engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, is priced at $29,990.

Sales Performance

Despite its competitive pricing, the MG 5 sedan faces stiff competition in the Australian market. VFACTS new-car sales data shows that 2509 units of the MG 5 were registered between January and July 2024. In comparison, the Toyota Corolla sold 15,867 units, followed by 9811 Kia Ceratos, 7178 Hyundai i30s, and 6499 Mazda 3s, all of which include popular hatchback variants.

As MG continues to refine and update the MG 5, it will be interesting to see how these changes influence its standing in the market. The facelifted model, when it eventually arrives, could offer a fresh alternative for buyers looking for an affordable yet well-equipped sedan. Stay tuned for further updates on the MG 5's Australian launch and its future impact on the local automotive landscape.