MG IM5 2026: A Premium Electric Sedan Review
The MG IM5 arrives as a stylish five-door coupe-inspired electric berline measuring nearly 5 meters long, boasting rear-wheel drive with steering rear wheels, an 800V electrical system, and up to 751 horsepower in its all-wheel-drive variant. Priced at just 53,990 euros for the rear-drive model we tested, it undercuts luxury rivals like the Porsche Taycan by half—sparking questions about whether this Chinese contender can truly challenge established premium brands.
While MG has built a reputation with affordable models like the MG4, the new IM sub-brand targets higher-end buyers with the IM5 sedan and taller IM6 SUV sibling. Both share a 96.5 kWh CATL battery, offering either 407 hp rear-motor setup or a dual-motor 751 hp powerhouse. We focused on the single-motor version for its balance of power and efficiency.
On the Road: Handling and Dynamics
Expectations of Taycan-like thrills fade quickly behind the wheel. On twisty mountain passes, the IM5 reveals a comfort-oriented character. The steering is notably light, almost floating, with some rear suspension vibrations over bumps and frequent stability control interventions in aggressive corners. Switch to Sport mode, and it firms up the wheel, unleashes torque more eagerly, and allows playful rear-end slides with ESP off—but it stops short of sports car precision.
Braking shines with strong, progressive feel from four-piston front calipers, aided by potent 220 kW regeneration that delays hydraulic takeover for smooth modulation. At lower speeds, however, the pedal loses some confidence.
Despite 2.3 tons, the 407 hp proves ample for overtakes, hitting 0-100 km/h in 4.9 seconds. Yet, everyday cruising highlights comfort gaps: the passive suspension feels firm over city potholes (unlike the air-sprung IM6), and the motor whines on acceleration.
Urban Agility and Highway Serenity
The IM5 excels in tight spaces thanks to rear-axle steering, achieving a turning circle tighter than many compact cars like the Renault 5. Nine cameras and 15 sensors enable flawless 360-degree parking aids, auto-maneuvering into spots, and blind-spot elimination via clever views—ideal for navigating narrow streets or eliminating A-pillar blind spots from the steep window line and tiny rear glass.
On motorways, double-glazed windows and active noise cancellation hush tire roar effectively, though wind noise lingers at high speeds. Level 2+ driver aids (adaptive cruise, lane centering, assisted lane changes) work best on straight, empty roads via Nvidia Orin AI chip but falter in traffic or curves—future updates could refine this.
Battery Range and Charging Speeds
The rear-drive IM5 claims up to 710 km WLTP range with aero wheel covers (655 km optional alloys), dropping to 575 km for AWD on 20-inch wheels. Our mixed test (country roads, hills, motorway) averaged 20.7 kWh/100 km, suggesting around 466 km real-world from a full pack.
The 800V setup supports 396 kW DC peaks, theoretically 10-80% in 17 minutes (our related IM6 test took 23 minutes at 360 kW). AC tops at 11 kW (over 11 hours full), with V2L capability via adapter. Standard heat pump, battery preconditioning, and route planner optimize trips—though a Geneva-to-Lille sim suggested frequent short stops.
Tip: Precondition the battery en route to fast chargers for max speeds, and use eco wheels for longer trips.
Cabin Tech and Comfort
Dominating the dash is a massive 26.3-inch screen atop a 10.5-inch lower display controlling nearly everything. Navigation, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, and a 20-speaker system impress, but menu diving distracts—custom shortcuts help, yet alerts persist. Quirky translations (steering ‘light’ or ‘stable’?) and no glovebox (fridge cubby instead) irk, though soft-touch materials and optional beige leather elevate feel.
Driver’s seat offers plush support but limited steering reach. No head-up display mars the tech fest.
Rear Space and Practicality
Rear seats welcome adults with long cushions, reclining backs, and heated outboards, but low-set fronts block foot space, and coupe lines demand ducking in/out. Center spot lacks extras beyond one USB-C.
Boot volume measures 457 liters (expands to 1,290), hampered by high sill, awkward opening, and no cable nook—tiny 18-liter frunk helps minimally.
Pricing, Rivals, and Value
Order now for October 2026 delivery: 53,990 € RWD, 59,990 € AWD—no bonuses, but 7-year/150,000 km warranty. Loaded standard: panoramic roof, ventilated/memory seats, 256-color ambiance, hands-free everything.
Half a Taycan’s price (106,500 € base), but pricier than XPeng P7+ (49,990 €, faster charging) or discounted Polestar 4 (49,900 €). Stands out in a SUV-heavy EV market.
Final Verdict
The IM5 elevates MG into premium territory with standout range, charging, equipment, and sleek sedan style. It prioritizes easy living over track thrills, suiting urban/highway commuters. Polish infotainment, damping, and dynamics, and it could unsettle rivals—but will buyers pay 54k € for a rebadged MG?
What We Love:
- Impressive range and rapid recharges
- City-friendly handling and quiet cruising
- Generous standard kit
What We’d Improve:
- Infotainment usability
- Sportier road manners
- More practical boot
| Specification | IM5 RWD | IM5 AWD |
|————–|———|———|
| Power | 407 hp | 751 hp |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 802 Nm |
| 0-100 km/h | 4.9 s | 3.2 s |
| Top Speed | 220 km/h | 268 km/h |
| Battery (usable) | 96.5 kWh | 96.5 kWh |
| WLTP Range | 655-710 km | 575 km |
| DC Charge (10-80%) | 17 min | 17 min |
| Price | €53,990 | €59,990 |
Key Equipment: Dual-zone climate, 26.3″ + 10.5″ screens, 360° cameras, semi-autonomous driving, heat pump, V2L.
