Looking for a sharp-looking sedan that won’t break the bank? The 2024 MG Mg5 might just be your sweet spot. This newcomer to the Australian market has been turning heads with its sleek design and competitive price tag. But is it all style and no substance? Let’s take it for a spin and see if the Mg5 delivers where it counts.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Budget-Friendly: Starting at a very attractive $24,990 drive-away for the base model, the Mg5 is one of the most affordable new sedans in Australia.
• Standout Style: Let’s face it, the Mg5 looks good. It has a sporty and modern design that punches above its weight class.
• Packed with Features: Even the base model comes with a decent array of features like a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a sunroof (although this might not be ideal for the Aussie climate!).
• Surprisingly Spacious: For a small sedan, the Mg5 offers a decent amount of interior space for passengers and cargo.

Cons

• Safety Concerns: The base model lacks some crucial advanced safety features like autonomous emergency braking and lane departure warning. This is a significant drawback for some drivers.
• CVT Performance: The continuously variable transmission (CVT) in the base model can feel sluggish, especially when accelerating. If you crave a more dynamic driving experience, you might want to consider the higher-spec model with the 7-speed automatic transmission.
• Interior Refinement: The interior materials might feel a bit on the budget side compared to some competitors.

How Much Does it Cost?

As mentioned earlier, the 2024 MG Mg5 is a steal at $24,990 drive-away for the base model, the Vibe. This includes on-road costs and any current promotional offers. The higher-spec Essence model, with the more powerful engine and 7-speed automatic transmission, starts at $28,990 drive-away.

Features and Benefits: More Than Just Looks

The Mg5 offers a good bang for your buck in terms of features. Even the base model comes equipped with a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cruise control, a sunroof, and a reversing camera. Higher-spec models add features like leather upholstery, a digital instrument cluster, and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and blind-spot monitoring.

One of the biggest benefits of the Mg5 is its 7-year, unlimited-kilometer warranty. This provides peace of mind for new car owners and is a significant advantage over some competitors.

Safety: A Patchy Picture

Here’s where things get a bit concerning. The base model Mg5 lacks some essential safety features like autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and lane departure warning (LDW). These features are becoming increasingly standard in new cars, and their absence is a significant drawback. The higher-spec Essence model does include some ADAS features, but it’s still not as comprehensive as what some competitors offer.

If safety is your top priority, the Mg5 might not be the best choice. However, if you’re on a tight budget and willing to prioritize other features, it’s worth considering.

Australia’s Value-Packed Sedan

Running Costs: Keeping it Frugal

The Mg5 is a fuel-efficient car, with the base model achieving a combined fuel consumption figure of around 6.0L/100km. This makes it a good option for those who are looking to keep running costs down. Additionally, the 7-year warranty provides peace of mind when it comes to maintenance costs.

Facing the Competition: How Does it Stack Up?

The Mg5 competes in a crowded segment of small sedans. Some of its main rivals include the Toyota Corolla, Mazda 3, and Hyundai Elantra. While the Mg5 boasts an attractive price tag, its competitors offer a more refined driving experience, better safety features (especially in the base model), and potentially higher resale values.

Conclusion

A Stylish Option for Budget-Conscious Drivers

The 2024 MG Mg5 is a compelling option for budget-conscious drivers who prioritize style and affordability. It offers a decent amount of space, a good range of features, and fuel-efficient performance. However, safety concerns with the base model and a slightly underwhelming interior might deter some buyers.

Rating: 7.5/10

The MG Mg5 sits in an interesting spot. It earns points for its head-turning design, competitive price, and decent feature set. However, safety concerns with the base model and a slightly unpolished interior hold it back from achieving top marks.

Here’s a breakdown of the score:

• Design (2/2): The Mg5 is a looker, offering a stylish design that punches above its weight class.
• Features (1.5/2): The Mg5 offers a good range of features for the price, but some might feel basic compared to competitors.
• Performance (1.5/2): The base model’s CVT can feel sluggish, but the higher-spec option offers a more dynamic experience.
• Safety (1.5/2): This is a weak point, especially for the base model. Opting for the higher-spec version helps, but it still lags behind some competitors.
• Value (2/2): For the price, the Mg5 offers a compelling package, especially if you prioritize style and affordability.

Overall, the MG Mg5 is a decent first effort but has room for improvement. If MG can address the safety concerns in the base model and elevate the interior materials, the Mg5 could become a serious contender in the small sedan segment.

So, is the Mg5 right for you?

If you’re a budget-conscious driver who prioritizes style and affordability, the Mg5 is definitely worth considering. Just be sure to factor in the safety limitations of the base model. However, if safety is your top concern or you crave a more refined driving experience, you might be better off with some of its established competitors.