MG's ZS Replacement: Real World Range Test Of India-Bound S5 Electric SUV [Video]
Currently, the best-selling electric car from MG Motor India is the Windsor EV. However, before this CUV, the mid-size ZS EV was the proper EV offering from the brand. The company still offers the ZS EV in India. However, it will soon be getting replaced by the MG S5 electric. This particular SUV is currently offered in the international markets and competes with the Skoda Elroq electric SUV. Recently, a video of its real-world range test was shared online.
MG ZS EV replacement driving test
This range test video of the upcoming MG S5 has been shared on YouTube by Bjørn Nyland on their channel. It starts off with the YouTuber showing the MG S5 getting charged at his home. During this, he mentions the S5 shares its platform with the smaller MG4. He adds that it comes equipped with a 64 kWh battery, which is similar to the MG4, but its charging curve differs.
The host mentions that the MG S5’s battery starts tapering off earlier (around 40–45%, or over 50% if charging starts below 5–10%). Following this, the car gets fully charged up to 100% before the range test begins. He then gives a brief interior tour of this vehicle, which gets a digital instrument gauge cluster and a free-standing touchscreen infotainment system.
He also shows the Bridgestone tires and aerodynamically efficient alloy wheels. Following this, the vlogger starts driving the vehicle for the range test and mentions that the software of the MG S5 is the weakest aspect of the car. He then added that it supports Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality and then started giving the driving impressions.
During the drive, the vlogger highlighted that the MG S5 offers good performance, soundproofing, and comfort. However, he did mention that the ride is slightly bouncy. Also, he added that the built-in navigation system is not that great. The vlogger then mentions that the predicted arrival percentage shown on the screen is inaccurate and does not adapt to driving style or weather conditions.
Driving dynamics
After the initial driving impressions, the host starts talking about the cruise control of the MG S5, which is very refined. It offers easy speed and distance adjustments, and MG Pilot (ADAS) is also very smooth and confident. The host added that it handles curves without unnecessary braking and also uses regenerative braking effectively on descents. Power delivery is also gradual and there are no jerks, he added.
In terms of weak spots and some quirks, the host states that the MG S5 has an issue of phantom braking, which is notable in curves or near trucks, especially at night. Also, the regen system of this vehicle resets to level 1 on every restart, and the instrument cluster becomes a bit too dark during the day. He added that the sound system offers decent bass but lacks clarity, and there is some glare from piano black surfaces and steering wheel trim.
Range test
Coming to the main highlight of this video, the MG ZS EV replacement MG S5 completed 418 km in a single full charge. Its range on the highway at 120 kmph was around 300 km, which, according to the host, is impressive. Also, while highlighting the efficiency at high speed, the first run was 223 Wh/km. Meanwhile, the second run, with slightly warmer weather, was 219 Wh/km. Lastly, efficiency at 90 kmph was 154 Wh/km—better than the MG4, despite the MG S5 being larger.