A Quick Look at What This MG IM5 Review Covers

• Driving Experience: Find out what it’s like to drive the IM5 on city streets, motorways and rural lanes.
• Performance and handling: Discover comfort versus fun on the road.
• Practical and spacious: Find out more about the huge boot and roomy cabin that make this electric tourer so special.
• Technology and features: Our in-depth review of infotainment and non-driving-related safety features that come as standard.
• Cost of ownership: Find out about the tax, fuel and maintenance savings that tell in your pocketbook.
• Competitor comparison: How does the IM5 fare against its limited direct and indirect competition?

Navigating Britain: The Real-World MG IM5 Driving Experience

Once I sat behind the wheel of the MG IM5, it was obvious the engineering priorities were comfort and everyday practicality. This is not a car that is trying to masquerade as a hard-edged sports coupe; it has a quiet, smooth quality that makes it a brilliant companion for the unique challenges of UK roads. It’s a car made for real life, where craters in the road are commonplace, and traffic jams are inevitable. The suspension is felt immediately, meeting the first undulations of the tarmac in the car park with a mild, reassuring disquiet that foretells calm miles ahead.

Skimming through the streets, the MG IM5 is very much at home. The electric motor’s instant torque makes for pullaways from traffic lights and busy roundabouts a smooth and hassle-free experience. There’s no hesitation, just a smooth and silent rush of power that lets you go into traffic feeling confident. I thought the steering was light and responsive, which was a big help when I had to back it into a space at the grocery store. It is a roomy car, but it is never daunting to drive, due in part to the very good all-around visibility and light controls.

One particularly well-judged feature is the regenerative braking. You can crank it up to a high setting to drive with one foot in stop-and-go city traffic, which really makes the commute a little easier. This function not only makes driving easy, but it also efficiently feeds energy back into the battery, extending the distance you can travel. Along with the standard parking sensors and rear camera, which offer a good look at what’s around you, you’ll avoid those heart-stopping moments when you’re backing into a tight space. It’s these kinds of thoughtful, practicality-driven details that give the IM5 identity as a car that makes easy work of everyday driving.”

Mastering Motorway Miles in the MG IM5

On the highway, the MG IM5 becomes a placid and accomplished touring vehicle. One of the most noticeable features of the M6 was how quiet it was inside the cabin. MG has obviously gone to great lengths to insulate the sound to deaden the usual wind and tyre noise that makes journeys long and tiring. It’s a serene place where you can carry on a conversation at normal volumes or listen to the audio system without cranking it up. This is genuinely impressive refinement for the category, and it goes a long way to making the car feel more premium than its price suggests.

It feels extraordinarily stable and planted at a constant 70mph, and inspires a great deal of confidence. There’s no illusion of lightness or susceptibility to crosswinds; it just goes straight and true with tiny flicks of the steering wheel. This stability, of course, allows really effortless driving, and as a result, you can just relax and enjoy the ride. In my test, I routinely engaged the standard-fit adaptive cruise control from the all-encompassing MG Pilot package. The system works flawlessly, keeping a safe and steady distance from the car in front and modulating speed fluidly in stop-and-go traffic. It relieves a lot of pressure in stop-start motorway sections, handling the throttle and brakes a lot better than most tired human feet.

Range worries on longer trips vanish pretty quickly in the IM5. The standard range model has ample battery capacity for most long-distance trips in the UK. The real-world range is pretty good at motorway speeds, and the car has an efficiency display that provides transparent information, so you know exactly how far you can go on the battery. There’s no such thing as range anxiety here. This reliable performance and the quiet cabin, along with the helping hand of competent driver aids, turn the motorway slog from one ordeal to a genuinely pleasant and stress-free experience. It’s a testament to how capable the IM5 is on the open road as well as in the city.

Analysing the MG IM5’s Performance and Handling

Even if its main purpose is to provide the basics in terms of comfort and practicality, the MG IM5 does boast a fun and engaging side. The rear-wheel-drive configuration, a feature that is usually found in the sportier cars, brings a delightful balance and a rewarding driving experience when you throw it into a corner. I once saw it on a twisting B-road and was struck at once. Instead of the feeling of the car shoving you back into the seat, which is common in many FWD vehicles, the IM5 picks up with enthusiasm and feels like it’s being pushed from behind, making for a more natural and stable turning experience. It gives a feeling of confidence so that you can enjoy driving without feeling that you need to fight the limits of the car.

The suspension is arguably the star in terms of handling. It does a fantastic job smoothing out the jolts and bounces caused by pot holes, ruts and broken tarmac that line British country lanes. The car stays calm and collected; it cushions you and your passengers from the hardest hits. That compliance doesn’t mean a loss of control; the car fights body roll in the corners, staying level enough to both provide a good sight line and allow for quick, smooth forward motion. Striking the right balance between relaxed and alert driving is a challenge, but the IM5 achieves it with a degree of polish that really surprises, enabling it to feel just as at home on a spirited backroad jaunt as it does on a high-speed run down the highway.

The acceleration is sharp, smooth, and just the way you want it to be in a modern EV. The instant throttle response is genuinely useful in everyday driving, such as when you want to make a safe, decisive pass. You don’t have to wait for a gearbox to shift or a turbo to spool up; the power is just there as soon as you ask for it. The car’s adjustable regenerative braking system contributes another element of driver engagement. You can pick a low one that makes the car coast on a flat road or a stronger one that makes it recover more energy and feel more like a one-pedal driver. This gives you a range of driving styles to choose from to match your current mood and the conditions ahead, if you’re happy to maximise efficiency in heavy traffic or get more rear-wheel-drive-centric excitement on a favourite back road.

• Enjoy balanced, engaging handling thanks to the rear-wheel-drive layout.
• Glide over rough surfaces with suspension that expertly absorbs bumps.
• Overtake with confidence using the instant, smooth electric acceleration.
• Maintain composure through corners with well-controlled body roll.
• Customise your drive with adjustable regenerative braking levels.

The MG IM5’s Ace Card: Unmatched Practicality and Space

This is the aspect in which the MG IM5 really holds its own, setting itself apart from almost every other electric car in its cost category. And as a pure electric estate, it has a practical level that very few competitors can match up to. The boot is simply enormous. I was surprised by the sheer size of the load bay while I was taking it for a test drive. It’s a room that swallows no problem a family’s weekly shop, even 2 buggies and bags for a weekend away, with nothing more than a stiff breeze to breaking a sweat. The load lip is tantalisingly low, and the mouth is wide and square, facilitating sliding in large items.

To fully put its capacity to the test, I went on a weekend DIY shop. Fold down the rear seats, and the room becomes properly van-like. Lengthy timber and  sheets of plasterboard, things which would have been unthinkable to get in an average hatchback or SUV, were taken care of without breaking a sweat. The level underfoot and the uncluttered space allow it to be a surprisingly flexible load-haulier, ideal for anyone who wants their vehicle to double as a work-family vehicle. This incredible usefulness is IM5’s greatest strength and a big argument for it against the competition. Entering the car, you immediately notice the cabin is airy, contemporary, and solidly built. Both the front seats and the rear seats offer plenty of headroom and legroom for all. My tall friends, who usually complain about the lack of space at the back of most cars during long drives, were silent plenty of legroom for their knees and heads. The materials used in the cabin are touch-friendly, and the clean, clutter-free layout features an enormous, highly responsive touchscreen that doubles as the vehicle’s command centre. In addition, MG have used the space well with a multitude of clever storage compartments (large door bins, a reasonably-sized glovebox, a cubbyhole under the centre armrest, etc) so you can keep all the detritus of family life close at hand.

• Carry everything you need with an enormous, class-leading boot capacity.
• Load bulky items easily thanks to a low lip and wide, square opening.
• Create a van-like loading space by folding the rear seats completely flat.
• Accommodate tall passengers comfortably with generous head and legroom.
• Enjoy a modern, airy cabin with quality materials and a clean design.
• Keep your cabin tidy with clever storage solutions, including large door bins.

Exploring the MG IM5’s Onboard Technology and Features

MG is also very generous with standard technology for the IM5, so that the most basic variant already feels modern and well-equipped. The focal point of the interior is the large central touchscreen, which serves as the control centre for almost all functions, including navigation, music and climate. Over the course of my time with the vehicle, I found the system to be relatively intuitive and the menu structure logical, and the graphics sharp and clear enough to make them glanceable. The display is touch-sensitive to counteract the irritation of slow interface response time. For those who like the convenience of just using their own phone, the good news is that Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both included as standard. Pairing my phone was effortless, and before long, my own apps and music were neatly presented on the screen, allowing me to easily navigate and control the media.

Outside of infotainment, the IM5’s driver assistance bundle is surprisingly full for the class. All of the models come with the ‘MG Pilot’ package, which integrates a range of sophisticated safety and convenience features. I found the Adaptive Cruise Control to be a privilege on both motorways and congested A-roads. It complements Lane Keep Assist to enhance long-distance travel security and comfort. The system maintains a smooth and consistent distance in traffic, including stop-and-go, reducing driver fatigue. Like other systems, such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, it adds another level of protection by continually monitoring the road for threats. These aren’t buzzwords on a product specification page; they are fine-tuned configurations that play together in the background that end up making tangible contributions and peace of mind on a day-to-day driving basis.

Charging flexibility is another major technological strength of the MG IM5. The vehicle is built to slot seamlessly into an owner’s lifestyle, regardless of whether they charge mostly at home or depend on the public network. For most owners, charging overnight with a 7kW home wallbox will be the most convenient and cost-effective, making sure their car has a full battery every morning with minimal fuss. Still, for those long jaunts that you need to charge the car on the road, the IM5 allows DC rapid charging at up to 150kW. I tested this at a public rapid charger, and the experience was lightning fast. Charging the battery from 10% to 80% in the time it takes to get a coffee and do a little walking eliminates a lot of the inconvenience formerly associated with long-distance travel in an EV. This functionality really makes the IM5 a viable proposition for all sorts of trips.

• Access infotainment easily via the large, responsive central touchscreen.
• Connect your smartphone seamlessly with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Drive with greater safety and confidence thanks to the comprehensive MG Pilot assistance suite.
• Reduce fatigue on long journeys with smooth Adaptive Cruise Control.
• Charge conveniently at home with support for 7kW wallboxes.
• Top up your battery quickly on the go with 150kW rapid charging capability.

Examining the MG IM5’s Ownership Costs in the UK

The cost-saving incentives of opting for an electric vehicle, such as the MG IM5, start to really add up once you look beyond the upfront cost and take into account the costs of running on a daily basis. They add up big time. The path of least resistance begins with refilling. Charging up at home, particularly if using an off-peak overnight electricity tariff, a week’s worth of commuting costs a tiny fraction of what an equivalent amount of petrol or diesel would bring to a gas station. This disparity translates into hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds saved each year, which really transforms the economics of personal transportation.

Additional savings are solidified by government rebates that are meant to promote the transition to electric vehicles. As a zero-emission vehicle, the MG IM5 qualifies for exemption from the Vehicle Excise Duty (VED), more commonly referred to as road tax. That’s an annual saving for the duration of the existing rules. It’s particularly beneficial for those who need to commute into major cities daily, adds the disrupting company’s CEO - they might be the biggest winners of all among consumers. The MG IM5 is not liable for fees such as the London Congestion Charge and Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) charges, which are known to be a high day-to-day cost. These reliefs make the IM5 a no-brainer financial pick for city dwellers and companies alike.

Apart from running costs, MG makes a strong statement of faith in its product with its fully transferable 7-year/80,000-mile warranty. This warranty is for the whole vehicle, including the essential high-voltage battery, which means it provides exceptional peace of mind for anyone considering long-term ownership. Having key components guaranteed for such a long time alleviates a lot of the financial risk that’s common with new vehicle technologies. This long-term warranty covers not only mitigating potential maintenance costs but also helps to sustain residual values, inspiring confidence in the IM5 as an investment. In combination with favourable insurance groups, assisted by numerous standard safety features, the total ownership package is very attractive from a cost-of-ownership perspective.

• Reduce running costs significantly with inexpensive home charging.
• Pay zero road tax (VED) as a zero-emission vehicle.
• Avoid city charges like London’s Congestion and ULEZ fees.
• Benefit from long-term peace of mind with a 7-year/80,000-mile warranty.
• Gain protection for the battery and major components under the comprehensive warranty.
• Enjoy competitive insurance premiums thanks to extensive safety features.

How the MG IM5 Measures Up to Its Rivals

The electric vehicle market is growing fast, but the all-electric estate segment is still surprisingly niche, which gives the MG IM5 a standout and powerful advantage right out of the gate. Its closest rival in terms is the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo. But this is all a bit academic, as the cars belong to completely different price brackets. The Porsche is a high-performance luxury vehicle whose price tag aligns with its premium branding and track-focused engineering. By contrast, the MG IM5 is designed with broad access and practicality at its core, offering a sensible choice to a whole different level of users. It’s the electric estate made accessible, giving buyers that much-desired body style without the six-figure outlay.

A more useful analogy would be to compare the MG IM5 to other electric SUVs and large hatchbacks in its price range, such as the Kia Niro EV and Volkswagen ID.4. Granted, both the Niro EV and ID.4 are solid, well-reviewed electric vehicles, but neither comes close to matching the IM5 when it comes to cargo space. The IM5’s estate body style delivers a cavernous boot that outshines what these crossover-style vehicles present, solidifying it as the best choice for families, dog owners, or anyone who needs to haul large items regularly. This unrivalled practicality is the IM5’s unique selling point. It has all the practicality of a regular estate car with the low running costs and effortless performance of a contemporary EV, and that is a very unusual combination in today’s market.

With the level of standard equipment on board, the value proposition of the MG IM5 becomes even stronger. The IM5 also frequently offers features that are extras on other models of its key competitors. The full suite of MG Pilot driver aids, for instance, delivers such a level of convenience and safety that you’ll find yourself on your best journey yet, every time. In addition, MG’s 7-year/80,000-mile warranty is a key point of difference, as many rivals don’t cover the whole vehicle for as long; the battery is included too. It gives peace of mind for the long term and reasserts the brand’s faith in its own product. Indeed, for the buyer who prioritises space and value and practicality more than anything else, the MG IM5 is a solidly sensible and well-rounded proposition like no other in the current EV market space, and that in itself is a testament to its unique competence and the quality of its design.

• Outperforms rivals like the Kia Niro EV and VW ID.4 on sheer boot space.
• Offers a rare combination of estate practicality and electric vehicle benefits.
• Provides a more accessible and affordable alternative to the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo.
• Includes generous standard features that are often optional extras on competing models.
• Delivers exceptional value and long-term security with its 7-year warranty.
• Stands as the intelligent choice for buyers prioritising space and value.

So, Who is the MG MG IM5 Best Suited For?

The MG MG IM5 standard range is one of those brilliant all-rounders that will appeal to a lot of different people.

• Families: A giant boot, roomy cabin and all the right safety equipment? It’s the perfect family wagon.
• Commuters: A comfortable ride, excellent driver aids, and low running costs make this one a daily grind dream.
• Business Users: Extremely low Benefit-in-Kind (BiK) tax rates mean it is an incredibly intelligent option for company car drivers.
• The Utilitarian Buyer: If a normal hatchback or SUV just doesn’t feel big enough for you, the MG MG IM5 is definitely something you should check out.

Why the MG IM5 Could Be Your Next Electric Car

Having spent a lot of time with the MG IM5 standard range, my verdict is overwhelmingly positive. Practical? Yes. Comfortable? Yes. Affordable? Yes. That’s exactly what this thing is: a practical, comfortable, and affordable electric car, and it delivers on that promise emphatically. It combines the huge practicality of a conventional estate with the refined, hushed running that you would expect from a new energy vehicle. The IM5 is a car that knows what its real-world buyers need, it caters for practicality with huge amounts of space, and the promise of low running costs and a high level of standard equipment rather than adding unnecessary flair or over-the-top performance. It’s a truly well-considered solution for those who have been waiting for the electric industry to deliver an everyday family car without the premium price tag, and for those looking for a practical, roomy vehicle to transport their pod-driven lives.

The standard range version of the car has a range that far exceeds what most people in the UK will need for daily driving and weekly repetitive errands, so being anxious about running out of charge is a thing of the past for most people. But what really distinguishes it from the scales, however, is the absolute value that you are getting. The amount of technology and advanced safety features that come as standard is a testament to that, and rivals what you get in cars from a segment higher.” From the smart infotainment system with seamless smartphone integration to the full MG Pilot driver assistance package, the vehicle has been designed to help make every journey safer and more enjoyable. This dedication to delivering a superior experience is now enhanced by the brand’s 7-year/100,000 km warranty, providing a degree of peace of mind in the long term that sets it apart in the market.

The bottom line is this: If you’re in the market for a roomy, affordable electric car that’s well equipped and can handle anything you throw at it, then the MG IM5 should be at the top of your list. It creates an unusual and compelling space of its own, with a practicality that electric SUVs and hatchbacks at similar prices just can’t come close to. Whether you’re a family, a commuter, a business user, or just somebody who needs their car to be a multi-tool for the rigours of contemporary life, the MG IM5 isn’t simply a good option; it’s probably one of the most intelligent, functional picks you can make on the electric market today.

Want to see for yourself? To find out more and to book a test drive today. Just go to The.Car and begin.