The MG S5, a compact all-electric SUV, has emerged as an unexpected highlight in the latest monthly list of cars approved for sale in China by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This list, which includes key specifications and images, has unveiled the MG S5, catching many by surprise.
The MG S5 features a distinctive design with a classic X-shaped front, slender headlights, and a lower air intake. It also sports a split grille design reminiscent of the MG Cyberster. A wave-like line runs from the front wing to the rear, complemented by a clean rear look with a through-type tail light. The vehicle is offered with 17 or 18-inch wheels.
The dimensions of the MG S5 are 4476 mm in length, 1849 mm in width, and 1621 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2730 mm. Two MIIT listings indicate that the SUV is powered by a rear axle-mounted 125 kW TZ180XS0951 electric motor, sourced from United Automotive Electronics, and has a top speed of 170 km/h.
The listings show varying weights for the S5: 1615 kg for the base version and 1685 kg and 1740 kg for higher specifications. This weight variation likely reflects different battery capacities, with all models utilizing lithium iron phosphate batteries assembled by SAIC’s Venture with CATL.
The MG S5 also offers options such as a panoramic roof and various wheel and mirror configurations. SAIC-owned MG is celebrating its centenary this year, and the S5 is expected to be produced on the same platform as the MG 4 (Mulan). The introduction of the S5 marks the first time MG has used a name starting with ‘S’ in China, following earlier use of the S9 name for a rebadged Rising R7 for the European market. The MG S5 is also likely to be exported.
