MG Motor UK 5 EV review

Another slice of big news for the revised MG5 is the new cabin. Big driver’s display, 10-25-inch touchscreen in the middle with often-used big buttons underneath. There’s a tall bridge of a centre console that houses the rotary gear selector and handbrake on top, wide storage underneath. Then there’s the usual cupholders, central covered bin and door pockets. Nothing to write home about in terms of ergonomics, but not uncomfortable, either. Materials are also a step up, and although this isn’t exactly a Rolls-Royce Spectre, it’s got a nice arc to the dash with some coloured inserts in the middle to liven it up. So much better than before, if not mind-blowing. At least this time it’s not bland to the point of forgetful.

As far as space is concerned, plenty up front albeit with slightly narrow front seats for the bigger among us, not so much volume for shoulders in the rear. Five adults would be cozy, and it’s here you realise that the MG5 doesn’t carry some of the advantages of bespoke electric. There’s no frunk, either. But there’s a generous 578-litres of bootspace in the back if you have the seats up and fill it to the roof, or 1,367-litres with the back seats folded. The rear seats don’t fold flat though, which is a minor, but relevant grumble.

Oh, and if you want to take your inside electricals with you when you venture out, all cars get vehicle-to-load as standard, which means you can run any normal 12-volt appliance direct from the car’s main traction battery. You may not think this overly useful until you do use it, at which point it’s brilliant - especially if you happen to have an electrically-assisted pushbike. Which you can also carry on the towball, because there’s 500kg of towing capacity. Oh, and if you need even more space, then the roof rails will stand a roof box this time.