MG ZS Going, S5 Coming: What The Replacement EV Drives Like [Video]
MG could soon replace the ZS EV with the S5 EV in India. The carmaker has already been doing it in many international markets. In the UK, for example, the S5 has already risen to acceptance as the larger, more premium replacement to the ZS EV. The electric crossover is available with two battery packs and trims. A recent video shared on the channel Electrifying, gives us a closer look at what could make it to the Indian shores in the future.
The host starts by giving a quick tour of the SE long-range variant of the S5 EV. In terms of design, the S5 looks more upmarket and appealing than the ZS EV. The LED headlamps now feature a completely new design and there is an uncanny visual resemblance to some BYD models in many areas of the design.
You can also draw visual connections with the likes of MG4. The SE trim rides on 17-inch wheels while the Trophy gets 18 inchers. The rear gets connected tail lamps and could evoke memories of some Volkswagen SUVs.
The S5 EV is based on the same platform as the MG 4 electric hatchback, which was praised for its smart design and solid performance. The carmaker is clearly aiming higher with the S5, and it shows. It is significantly larger in overall dimensions, than the ZS.
Prices in the UK start at £28,495 (approx. 32.6 lakh rupees) for the base model with a 49kWh battery, and go up to £33,495 (approx. 38 lakh rupees) for the top-spec 64kWh variant. This is a big step up from the outgoing MG ZS EV, which starts at around A$39,990 (34.1 lakh rupees). However, MG claims the S5 EV offers more features and better value, and the price premium is thus justified.
The S5 EV offers plenty of room inside. The S5 apparently has MG’s most premium cabin yet. The equipment list includes a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen, 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, keyless entry, satellite navigation, selectable ride modes, and more. Taking into account public demand for the same, the manufacturer has given the EV physical controls for all essential functions..
The S5 also has plenty of rear legroom and headroom. You also get 453 litres of boot space, which is on par with the Kia EV3.
Speaking of powertrains, the S5 EV offers the choice of three battery packs- 49 kWh, 62 kWh and 64 kWh (NMC) in most markets. The smaller battery has a claimed range of 340 km per charge, whereas the biggest battery- an NMC unit, is known to offer a range of up to 480 km.
The smaller battery packs power a 125 kW electric motor that spins the rear wheels. The larger pack comes with a 170 kW unit. The carmaker seems to have opted for NMCs to maximise the driving range and to ensure better energy density. The S5 EV shares some of its powertrain components with the MG4 and has similar weight distribution as well. There are multiple driving modes and a 'one-pedal' mode, to further optimize the driving experience.
Steering is light but responsive, and the 'Sport' mode makes it firmer and brings about improved dynamics. While the suspension isn’t as polished as in the MG 4, the ride quality is still very good for everyday use. The EV handles bumps well and stays stable even on rough roads.
The acceleration is impressive too — the 64kWh version goes from 0–100 km/h in just 6.3 seconds. That’s faster than many petrol SUVs in its segment. On true EV grounds, the S5 EV (atleast the SE variant) could be far from exciting in performance, it was never meant to be a thrilling driver's car.
Summing It Up...
The MG S5 EV shows how far the brand has come. It’s no longer just about building cheap cars. The S5 feels modern, well-built, and full of useful features. If MG can keep the India pricing competitive when it launches in 2025 or 2026, this could be one of the best electric SUVs in its segment.