2026 MG S5 EV range shrinks

MG Australia has revised its S5 EV lineup, having dropped the Excite 49 and Excite 62 variants and upgraded the top-spec Essence 62 with a more powerful motor and longer cruising range – all for the same RRP as before.

According to the brand, the changes are the result of definitive buying habits, with the Essence trim accounting for more than 80 per cent of orders since the electric compact SUV launched last year.

The axing of the Excites means the S5 EV’s starting price has climbed $2500 to $42,990 drive-away by default, however there have been no adjustments made to the pricing of the Essence variants, despite the flagship’s significant upgrades.

Said upgrades comprise a more powerful and efficient motor that boosts outputs from 125kW/250Nm to 150kW/350Nm, slashes the 0-100km/h time down from 8.6 seconds to seven and extends the WLTP range out to 450km (from 425km).

The Essence 49 has been left alone since the 62 makes up a bigger share of overall sales.

“As the category matures, buyers are becoming more selective, looking beyond simply making the switch to electric and placing greater emphasis on everyday performance, driving range and in-vehicle technology,” MG said in a statement.

Factory orders for the Excite 49 and Excite 62 have already shut for good, meaning prospective buyers specifically after the entry-level variants will either have to settle for what’s in stock or spend the extra few grand on an Essence.

How much does the 2026 MG S5 EV cost?
Essence 49 – $42,990
Essence 62 – $47,990
* Prices are drive-away

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