China's 2025 MG ES5 SUV previews next all-new MG ZS EV

The all-new MG ES5 small electric SUV has been unwrapped that combines a range of up to 525km with ultra-low price of $20,000 in China and could preview the inbound 2025 MG ZS EV that arrives in Australia next year.

Based on its parent SAIC's Nebula pure-electric architecture, despite its ultra-low pricing, the MG ES5 comes with a sophisticated five-link rear suspension system for better ride and handling.

Measuring in at 4476mm long, 1849mm wide and standing 1621mm tall the ES5 has a 2730mm wheelbase and is said to weigh between 1685kg-1720mm.

Compared to the MG ZS it replaces, the Chinese brand has up-sized its small SUV in almost every dimension, with the new MG 153mm longer, 40mm wider but standing around 4mm lower than the out-going car.

Looking like an evolution of the current MG4's looks the new ES5 face is punctuated by a pair of slim headlamps that sit above an arrowhead second light cluster. Two large lower air intakes round up an overtly sporty nose.

Other design elements include interlinked Y-shaped rear taillamps and the option of either 17- or 18-inch alloy wheels.

Driving the rear wheels is a single e-motor that produces around 125kW and 250Nm of torque which is enough to overcome its relatively light kerbweight and launch the new MG from 0-100km/h in just 8 seconds and top out at 170km/h.

Two lithium iron phosphate batteries will be available – one with 49.1kWh that will provide for a range of 425km and a larger 62.2kWh power pack that provides for the full 525km – although all the range figures are recorded on the lenient CLTC Chinese test cycle.

Maximising space within, MG's claims that the new CATL-developed battery is the world's thinnest at 110mm thick.

Inside, there's a new flat-bottom steering wheel and a full digital instrument cluster and large infotainment. A new floating centre console provides two cupholders and plenty of space to store items below and is said to incorporate at least one wireless charger.

A full-width panoramic roof is also available.

In Australia the current MG ZS has remained a top-selling SUV, with the petrol version leading the small SUV segment for the past three years.

For the new EV it appears it will sit on a completely different platform to the next-generation hybrid version that will switch to the same powertrains as the latest MG3 hatch, with top versions pumping out 155kW and 250Nm or torque.

On sale in China before the end of this year, it's thought the all-new MG ES5 will be renamed the MG ZS EV and be available in the Australian market in the first half of 2025.

Sadly, we don't think the ultra-low $20k pricing will transfer over but we do expect the new battery-electric small SUV to still be a bargain with pricing set to kick off at around $35,000, plus on-roads.

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