By Muhammed Hashim 
The new model adopts a grille-less look, differentiating it from the ICE-powered MG ZS counterpart
- MG published the first photos of the ES5, a fully electric SUV for global markets.
- The ES5 will replace the MG ZS EV, with a larger footprint and modern technology.
- The MG4-based SUV is powered by a rear electric motor, producing 168 hp.
SAIC-MG has introduced a new electric SUV in China, which is expected to serve as a replacement for the ZS EV in export markets including Europe, UK, and Australia. The MG ES5 shares its EV-dedicated underpinnings with the MG4 hatchback, featuring a larger footrprint and a sleeker design compared to its predecessor.
The MG ZS got a new generation for 2025, but went hybrid-only, dropping the fully electric option. Instead of adopting a similar design for the successor of the fully electric ZS EV, the company chose to launch a completely different model, benefiting from the latest advancements in its EV technology.
More: MG Windsor Is A Rebadged Chinese EV For India With A Pay-Per-Mile Battery
The ES5 adopts a clean styling language, with a grille-less face differentiating it from MG’s ICE-powered models. The bumper intakes are reminiscent of the MG Cyberster roadster, while the split LED headlights are slimmer and more aggressive than before. The profile is pretty generic, while the full-width taillights have a similar shape to the MG4.
The electric SUV measures 4,476 mm (176.2 inches) long, which makes it 162 mm (6.4 inches) longer than the outgoing ZS EV. Most of the extra length goes the wheelbase, which has been stretched to 2,730 mm (107.5 inches).
Inside, there is a flat-bottom steering wheel, a digital instrument cluster, a large infotainment touchscreen, and a floating center console.
The MG ES5 shares the Modular Scalable Platform (MSP) underpinnings with the MG4 hatchback. It is powered by a single electric motor at the rear axle, producing 168 hp (125 kW / 170 PS) and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque. It is not clear if the model will gain more powerful dual-motor versions in the future.
In China, the SUV will offer three options for the ultra-slim lithium iron phosphate battery pack, manufactured by the SAIC-CATL joint venture. According to fillings in the Chinese MIIT, the largest battery will have a capacity of 62.2kWh, offering a maximum range of 525 km (326 miles) under the CLTC protocols.
The market launch of the MG ES5 in export markets is expected to take place in 2025. In Europe, rivals will include subcompact SUVs like the Kia EV4 and the Peugeot E-2008, although its size is more comparable to models from the compact SUV segment.
