Editorial Pick
MG S5 EV
The sharp-looking MGS5 is the latest entrant in the electric crossover segment, but its rear-wheel drive layout makes it unique. This, along with its smooth regenerative braking, enhances its driveability and handling, while its 62kWh battery offers a driving range of 425km. Inside, drivers will find a well-appointed cockpit with HD displays for the instrument panel and infotainment, a panoramic sunroof, and a sizable 453-litre boot.
Special Features
Reviews
 
The MG S5 EV is a compelling electric SUV in the mid-range segment, offering strong value for money, good everyday usability and an appealing design. It positions itself as a practical EV choice against rivals such as the BYD ATTO 3 and AION V, and in many areas it holds its own or even outshines them.The MG S5 is for the driver who wants a properly engineered car that happens to be electric. It�s agile, efficient, and looks great. However, if you're someone who needs "creature comfort" tech like ventilated seats or a soft-cushion ride, you might find the features a bit basic compared to AION V.
 
For the price point, this car delivers exceptional performance and comfort level that can rival its competitors which are more costly. The seats are plush and extremely comfortable, even for long drives up north. The interior styling is classy and feels expensive. And it’S very very quiet both on the inside and outside.The handling of this car is what makes this car a stand out. Very easy to manoeuvre and the turning angle is great especially for a car of this size. And the pick-up and acceleration of this car makes other (more expensive) electric SUVs pale in comparison.
 
Just got my MG S5 EV Luxury 2 weeks ago and driving it everyday since (approx 800km now). It is such a nice drive.A few things if I do have to nitpick� ?wireless charging is really slow, feels like one of those third party Qi wireless charger with suede places on top. Using wired charging is much faster� ?mg pilot custom setting needs to be selected each time you start the car - only applies to drive setting and doesn�t apply to pilot car seat (ie pilot car seat doesn�t have memory function)� ?front passenger car seat shifting is manual and not electricDespite the above, it is a really nice drive and at that price point getting a RWD, it�s been a joy driving it. The sunroof and all makes it especially mesmerising for my toddler in tow. Apple CarPlay works perfectly as well.Before deciding on this, I was considering the BYD ATTO3, and it felt too plasticky for my liking. The S5 felt like a proper car on battery. It�s not much of a �tech� car per se if you were to compare it to the likes of BYD or Tesla, but it gets you to your destination, safely. You should check out the crash test for the s5 on YouTube, pretty solid.Personally, I�m someone who just wants to get my family and myself from A to B safely with no need for speed. If you are of a similar profile, you won�t regret the purchase :) best of luck mate!
 
My two cents so far on the S5. (Previously drove the ZS, a very competent starter EV and upgraded to the S5 since July) For almost the same price as a BYD Atto 3, the MG S5 EV gives you more of everything�space, comfort, tech, and fun drive.I love its RWD config that gives a very spirited drive. I love the One-pedal mode (Tesla vibes!) and been using it since day one. Tight U-turns are a breeze really! Nice checkered flag style DRLs + quirky �Smiley Face and Splinter Cell� brake lights (IYKYK)I chose the beige interior as it felt more posh compared to the dark and gives a very bright interior. Very spacious backseat for 3 adults. Smooth torque (not as instant as the ZS but still very good), plus the comfort braking which does not give that jerk feel some people feel abt EVs. My wife and daughters fall asleep more easily when it�s a long drive. Slim front pillar = better visibility (safety aspect) compared to the ZS. Intuitive infotainment (THOUGH I had issues with lagging and hanging but it was resolved by the dealer)In our local context with the stupid high COE, this feels like proper value for money. Practical, comfortable, and yet fun enough to make you look forward to every drive or take a second look after you parked the car. ?
Verdict
It might be indicative of the automotive landscape of 2025, but the five of the seven of the long list of cars considered for this year's Editorial Pick were all electric (of which two are large MPVs), and not a single performance-oriented car even made the cut.

And while performance cars may still hold a special place enthusiasts hearts, our Editorial Pick must also reflect the preferences and sensibilities of the wider car-buying population – after all, few people likely want to (or can afford) to live with the severe compromises of a hard-riding two-door sports car.

Which brings us to this year's Editorial Pick – the MGS5. A car that fits neatly in two of the most high-demand segments right now. One, it's an SUV. And two, it's electric.

The MGS5 stood out not by shouting the loudest, but by getting the fundamentals right. It has got a clean and contemporary design, with just a hint of sportiness, that feels cohesive to the personality of the car.

Inside, we were drawn to the user-friendliness of the cabin and all of its controls. With many brands going down the fully-digital route, we appreciated that physical controls for regularly used functions were still present. Ditto for the infotainment system – it's one of the least complicated ones we've experience, and genuinely pleasant and easy-to-use. Optimal packaging on its EV package also means that rear passengers have generous amounts of space.

On the road, the most distinguishing characteristic of the MGS5 is its rear-wheel drive layout. While the 99kW output is modest, 250Nm of torque makes for easy-enough acceleration. But that RWD layout comes to the fore while driving, with the car feeling sharp eager to tuck its nose into bends. That added agility is much welcome in a segment that typically does not prioritise the driver. It also makes tackling tigher spaces easier, with the car having a smaller turning radius.

Ultimately, driving this choice was the question of accessibility. The MGS5 delivers good-enough range from a modest size battery, has solid charging credentials, and makes a compelling case for electric mobility thanks to competitive pricing. And it is the combination, usability and modern EV appeal that makes it our Editorial Pick for this year.