The 2024 MG 5: An Affordable Sedan with a Price Hike and Upcoming Updates

MG’s popular small sedan, the MG 5, continues into 2024 with a modest $1000 price increase. Despite this hike, the MG 5 remains the most budget-friendly option in its class, starting at $25,990 drive-away. For those who appreciate a blend of affordability and practicality, the MG 5 offers a compelling choice.

Pricing and Positioning

The updated MG 5 range now consists of two models:

• MG 5 Vibe: Priced at $25,990 drive-away.
• MG 5 Essence: Available for $29,990 drive-away.

Even with the recent price increase, the MG 5 still undercuts its competitors, including the Mazda 2, the last remaining sedan in the segment below. It’s also just $1000 more than the new-generation MG 3 hatchback, making it a strong contender for value-conscious buyers.

Performance and Efficiency

Powertrains:

• MG 5 Vibe:Engine: 1.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinderPower: 84kW @ 6000rpmTorque: 150Nm @ 4500rpmTransmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)Fuel Consumption: 5.7L/100km
• Engine: 1.5L naturally aspirated four-cylinder
• Power: 84kW @ 6000rpm
• Torque: 150Nm @ 4500rpm
• Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT)
• Fuel Consumption: 5.7L/100km
• MG 5 Essence:Engine: 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinderPower: 119kW @ 5600rpmTorque: 250Nm @ 3000-4000rpmTransmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automaticFuel Consumption: 5.9L/100km
• Engine: 1.5L turbocharged four-cylinder
• Power: 119kW @ 5600rpm
• Torque: 250Nm @ 3000-4000rpm
• Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch automatic
• Fuel Consumption: 5.9L/100km

Both models use 91 RON regular unleaded fuel and feature a 50L fuel tank.

Dimensions and Practicality

The MG 5 is well-sized for a small sedan:

• Length: 4675mm
• Width: 1842mm
• Height: 1480mm
• Wheelbase: 2680mm
• Cargo Capacity: 401L
• Kerb Weight: 1260kg (Vibe) / 1316kg (Essence)

This makes the MG 5 a practical choice for daily use, offering ample cargo space and a roomy interior.

Servicing and Warranty

The MG 5 is backed by a generous seven-year, unlimited-kilometre warranty. Regular servicing is required every 12 months or 10,000km. MG offers capped-price servicing for up to seven years, making maintenance costs predictable:

Capped-Price Servicing Costs:

• Vibe:12 months/10,000km: $26624 months/20,000km: $42736 months/30,000km: $26648 months/40,000km: $58160 months/50,000km: $42872 months/60,000km: $42784 months/70,000km: $266
• 12 months/10,000km: $266
• 24 months/20,000km: $427
• 36 months/30,000km: $266
• 48 months/40,000km: $581
• 60 months/50,000km: $428
• 72 months/60,000km: $427
• 84 months/70,000km: $266
• Essence:12 months/10,000km: $27224 months/20,000km: $43036 months/30,000km: $27248 months/40,000km: $58560 months/50,000km: $27272 months/60,000km: $66184 months/70,000km: $272
• 12 months/10,000km: $272
• 24 months/20,000km: $430
• 36 months/30,000km: $272
• 48 months/40,000km: $585
• 60 months/50,000km: $272
• 72 months/60,000km: $661
• 84 months/70,000km: $272

Safety Features

The MG 5 Vibe comes with essential safety features:

• Autonomous emergency braking
• Reversing camera
• Rear parking sensors
• Front, front-side, and curtain airbags

The top-spec Essence adds:

• Surround-view camera
• Rear seatbelt reminders

Standard Equipment

Both trims come well-equipped, with the Vibe featuring:

• 16-inch alloy wheels
• Automatic LED headlights
• 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system
• Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Leatherette-wrapped steering wheel
• Cruise control
• Air-conditioning with rear air vents

The Essence model enhances the experience with:

• Single-pane sunroof
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• Six-way power driver’s seat
• Power-folding exterior mirrors
• Grey front-end accents

Color Options

The MG 5 offers six exterior finishes:

• No-Cost Options: Dover White, Royal Yellow
• Premium Colors ($700): Diamond Red, Misty Grey, Black Pearl, Brixton Blue

Sales and Market Performance

In the first half of 2024, MG sold 2252 units of the MG 5, outpacing the Subaru Impreza (1078 units) and closely approaching the Mazda 2’s 2446 units. This strong performance highlights the MG 5’s appeal in the competitive small sedan segment.