Launched back in May, the 2025 MG S5 EV is MG Motor Malaysia’s latest mainstream model, joining the brand’s fast-growing EV line-up. Recently, MG Motor Malaysia organized a media drive, giving us the opportunity to sample their range-topping Lux Long Range variant with a drive to the East Coast.
Overview
Priced between RM 116,548 and RM 136,548 (OTR, without insurance; first 500 buyers get a RM 6,000 rebate + a free 7-kW wall box charger), the MG S5 EV aims squarely at rivals like the Proton eMas 7 and BYD Atto 3.
However, unlike the aforementioned rivals, the MG S5 EV has a magic trick up its sleeve – this unassuming looking EV actually features a rear-wheel drive (RWD) layout. Why does that matter? We will dive into that below.
The Lux Long Range variant features a rear-mounted motor producing 125 kW (170 PS) and 250 Nm, paired with a CATL-sourced 62-kWh LFP battery. Variants with the 62-kWh pack support up to 150 kW DC fast charging, while the 49-kWh version tops out at 120 kW.
A 150 kW DC fast charge takes around 26 minutes to go from 10% to 80% SoC, while a full charge delivers up to 425 km of range (WLTP).
Read Also: 2025 MG S5 EV is finally in Malaysia, and it’s goodbye to the Atto 3 and eMas7
Exterior
The S5 EV features a clean and modern design. Up front, slim LED DRLs flank a minimalist yet purposeful fascia. At the rear, a full-width LED light bar splits at each corner — a design theme seen on the MG4 and MG Cyberster.
Our test car features 18-inch aero-desgined alloy wheels wrapped in 225/55R18 Bridgestone Turanza T005 tyres.
While it doesn’t try to match the BYD Atto 3’s quirky flair, the S5 EV strikes a handsome balance of sharp lines and soft curves. In person, it feels more cohesive than the Proton eMas 7 — and crucially, it avoids looking like a certain German SUV.
Interior
Although the 2025 MG S5 EV shares its underpinnings with the MG4, you wouldn’t guess it from the cabin. The choice of materials, mixed tones (even if they lean towards mostly grey and black), and layout feel more premium than the MG4’s.
Whereas the MG4 had a row of physical buttons beneath the 10.25-inch infotainment display, the MG S5 EV improves upon that by offering physical knobs for the climate control and volume control. (China market models lack these, due to Chinese consumer preference). The buttons feel surprisingly tactile, and the knurled design of the knobs add an upmarket feel.
Taking centrestage is a larger 12.8-inch infotainment display, replete with support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Wireless Apple CarPlay is definitely a blessing in the S5 EV, as the wired-only connectivity in the MG4 and Cyberster had the tendency of acting up and would cause CarPlay to crash.
Seats offer decent bolstering and adjustment, making it easy to get comfortable. Rear legroom is respectable, even with a tall passenger seated in front.
Driving Experience
This is where the RWD advantage shines. During our media drive, which included the Karak Highway’s sweeping curves, uphill climbs, and long straights, the 2025 MG S5 EV impressed with balance and composure, with a hint of European handling prowess. For those not in the loop, most Chinese EVs tend to be tuned on the softer side of things, which is good for comfort, but that would mean that handling takes a back seat.
Its RWD layout, five-link rear suspension, and well-sorted chassis tuning keep it planted through corners, even over mid-corner bumps — something most FWD rivals struggle with.
Driven gently, the ride is supple with a hint of European handling character. Compared to the softer Proton eMas 7, the S5 EV feels more confident and planted.
MG Malaysia also let us take it on mild off-road trails near Bentong. While it’s not AWD, the S5 EV handled the light dirt tracks without fuss — a nice bonus for weekend camping trips or light adventure runs.
Though the MG S5 EV is not nearly as sharp or playful as the MG4, but given its SUV form factor and target audience, that’s hardly a complaint.
Is the MG S5 EV safe?
In short, yes. The stringent Euro NCAP tested the 2025 MG S5 EV a couple of months ago and awarded the model with the full five-star safety rating. Under the latest 2025 test protocol, the 2025 MG S5 EV scored:
- 90% in Adult Occupant Protection (AOP)
- 82% in Child Occupant Protection (COP)
- 82% for Vulnerable Road Users
- 78% in Safety Assist
For the Malaysian-spec 2025 MG S5 EV, it is fitted with seven airbags, including a centre airbag for the driver. There’s also the full MG Pilot ADAS suite (ACC, AEB, BSA, LCA, ELK, DMS, FCW, IHC, LDW, LKA, RCW, TJA).
Conclusion
Although our drive to Kuantan and back wasn’t long enough for a full verdict, but first impressions of the 2025 MG S5 EV are promising. It combines tidy European-flavoured handling with supple ride comfort, offers wireless Apple CarPlay that works well, and brings a solid list of features for the price.
In a market crowded with FWD electric SUVs, the S5 EV’s RWD layout adds a welcome twist — one that keen drivers will appreciate. Even without pushing the MG S5 EV to its limits, we reckon that even regular drivers would appreciate the overall package of the MG S5 EV.
2025 MG S5 EV Exterior photo gallery
2025 MG S5 EV Interior photo gallery
