The MG5 is the latest MG sedan/saloon displaying a smooth, sleek design and obviously top build and finish quality. The colours and quality of the paint are enhanced by the chromework which adds a look of luxury to what is in fact a very cost-effective solution for, say, a family looking for affordable transportation.
DESIGN & STYLE The MG designers have given the new MG5 a premium look with design features normally found on luxury brands, like the sporty front grille, halogen projection headlights, power strakes on the bonnet (hood), and bold character lines along the side which are very ‘sporty European’. Then you have the large and legendary ‘MG’ badge, the upmarket chrome accents around the windows, and it’s easy to mistake this for a premium-brand offering. Every time you use the doors you are reminded of the quality: they are obviously well made and close with a solid ‘thunk’.
COMFORT & SPACE Most of the MGs provided by Auto Class Cars that I have driven have had fabulous leather interiors – really well done, double stitching, high quality, up there with the well-established luxury cars. The top-option contrasting trim is amazing, but even the standard model which I reviewed was great. Like all the MG cars and SUVs, for an absolutely amazing price, you get a great quality car and, for just a little extra, which is still a great price the car is absolutely amazing. The MG5 is no exception.
So far I have mentioned only the exterior, but of course, you have more contact with your car from the inside. Here again, the MG5 doesn’t disappoint; in fact, you will likely be very pleased. The dashboard is packed with the latest in-car technology. Front and centre is a large touchscreen infotainment system that comes with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 360-degree whole-vehicle camera view makes it so easy to park in tight spaces as well as see any obstructions in low-speed traffic. Add to these the push start/stop button, cruise control, keyless entry, sporty digital dials, tyre pressure monitoring system and rear parking camera are all offered as standard.
Stepping inside the MG5 unveils a cabin space carefully and intelligently crafted to provide a relaxing, even entertaining, driving environment. From 29 smart storage solutions located throughout the cabin and a huge 512-litre boot, to a choice of leather and fabric upholstery, MG has crafted the model to deliver the utmost quality. A six-way power-assisted driver seat and four-way power-assisted Passenger seat ensure exceptional comfort, while the abundant leg and headroom provides more than enough space for up to five adults. The sporty dials and colour touchscreen – 8 inches in the Comfort trim and 10.1 inches in the DEL trim – are sure to add to your sense of enjoyment in the vehicle.
POWER & PERFORMANCE Performance in the new MG5 is as impressive and refined as we have come to expect from all the new MG models. The 1.5-litre four-cylinder normally-aspirated petrol engine is paired with continuously variable transmission (CVT), and provides a powerful 150 Nm of torque, along with a top speed of 180 kph. Combined with the electronic or speed sensing power steering systems, it’s a joy to drive, especially with its agile and sensitive handling. At this price, driving never felt so good!
SAFETY & SECURITY The technology in the new MG5 doesn’t end at entertainment. In fact, with an abundance of safety systems throughout the vehicle – which earned it a five-start C-NCAP rating – there is plenty of engineering excellence to admire. C-NCAP is the official Chinese safety rating and is primarily modeled on safety standards established by Euro NCAP. Expect to see it more often as Chinese influence grows in the auto world.
For example, a total of 13 active safety features is available, ranging from Hill-Start Assist to Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Curve Brake Control to the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. Passive measures, meanwhile, include a high strength steel cage and laser brazing technology for extra strength and insulation control, front, side and curtain airbags and ISOFIX child seat anchor points. As such, you can take to the road with complete confidence.
Based on looks alone, the classy styling of the new MG5 makes this car a winner. The plush interior and the array of features prove this to be true. The handling and performance make it ideal for daily use. It’s easy to mistake this for a premium-brand offering. In fact, more than once, friends asked if it was a luxury car. And then, just to completely confuse them, you have to see the look on their faces when they hear the price.
The place to learn about MG is at the Auto Class showroom on Salwa Road. Staff will be happy to explain all and arrange a test drive of the new MG5 or any of the stylish range of new MG sedans and SUVs. Call 4040 1444 or visit mg-qa.com
Author: Terry Sutcliffe
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