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Review: The MGS5 EV is Nearly a Perfect SUV

Officially established in 1924, Morris Garages, better known as MG, quickly gained a reputation for producing affordable, lightweight sports cars. Iconic models such as the MG TC, MGB, and MG Midget made the brand a household name, particularly in post-war Britain, and helped define the image of the affordable British sports car worldwide.

Over the decades, MG changed hands multiple times. It became part of the Morris Motor Company in 1935, merged into the British Motor Corporation (BMC) in 1952, and later joined British Leyland in 1968, a group that struggled financially for years.

MG car production ceased in 1980, although the brand was occasionally revived throughout the 1990s and early 2000s under various ownerships, including the Rover Group and MG Rover. However, in 2005, MG Rover collapsed, leaving the brand’s future uncertain.

Following the bankruptcy, two major Chinese carmakers, Nanjing Automobile Group and SAIC Motor Corporation, expressed interest in acquiring MG’s assets. That same year, Nanjing Automobile successfully purchased MG Rover’s assets, including the MG brand and the historic Longbridge factory in Birmingham, England.

In 2007, SAIC Motor, China’s largest automaker, merged with Nanjing Automobile, effectively taking full control of MG and its legacy. SAIC maintained a British presence by continuing limited research and development at the Longbridge site.

Under SAIC’s leadership, MG underwent a complete transformation. The brand moved away from its classic roadsters and adopted a modern product lineup focused on SUVs, family cars, and electric vehicles.

Notable models include the MG ZS and ZS EV, the MG HS, the all-electric MG4 hatchback, and the Cyberster roadster, reviving MG’s sporty heritage in electrified form.

With this new direction, MG has expanded into multiple global markets, including the UK, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.

In May 2025, MG Malaysia formally announced the retail price of its all-electric MGS5 EV, setting it at RM115,900 for the COM variant, RM125,900 for the COM Long Range, and RM135,900 for the LUX Long Range.

This came shortly after its public debut at the Malaysia Autoshow 2025, where the company initially hinted at a starting price of RM115,000 and offered exclusive incentives to early adopters.

Fast Charging at Its Finest

The MGS5 EV is available in three trim levels: COM, COM Long Range, and LUX Long Range. The LUX variant comes with a 62 kWh battery and delivers a claimed range of up to 430 km. On paper, these are impressive numbers, but we wanted to put them to the test in the real world.

We set out on a drive from Kuala Lumpur to Kuantan, Pahang, a journey of around 263km, typically taking three hours. When we started the trip, the battery was at over 90%, and the system indicated a 400km range. This led us to believe that with a full charge, it could indeed achieve the stated 430km.

What we didn’t account for, however, were our unscheduled stops, including lunch and a visit to GLO Durian Farm, which made a quick charging session necessary.

Fortunately, the MGS5 EV supports DC fast charging, capable of going from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes. When we stopped to charge at around 30% battery, it took only 15 minutes to reach 80%, more than enough to shoot us to our final destination (no pun intended).

For those looking to maximise range, the car offers adjustable regenerative braking settings. This proved incredibly helpful on our return journey to Kuala Lumpur, where energy conservation was critical.

Power and Precision

Our route to GLO Durian Farm took us through steep, off-road terrain riddled with mud, gravel, and uneven surfaces. Initially, we were skeptical of the MGS5 EV’s ability to handle such conditions. Despite being a rear-wheel drive SUV, the vehicle surprised us by climbing the hill with remarkable ease and stability.

The MGS5 EV features a rear-wheel drive layout with a five-link independent rear suspension, providing confident and composed handling. Its DP-EPS electronic steering system and XDS cornering dynamic control further contribute to agile maneuverability. The 47:53 front-to-rear weight distribution enhances overall balance, making it surprisingly capable on challenging surfaces.

Performance-wise, the MGS5 EV delivers 170PS and 250Nm of torque, with a 0-100km/h time of 8.0 seconds, more than adequate for a family SUV. On the highway, the car feels far from sluggish. It does not have the instant torque jolt of more aggressive EVs, it delivers a smooth power curve and reaches a top speed of 175km/h, which is impressive for its segment.

Stability and Safety

Even at high speeds, the MGS5 EV maintains impressive stability and comfort. It is engineered to meet Euro NCAP five-star safety standards, with a cage-like structure made from 77% high-strength steel and up to 47% ultra-high-strength steel.

Reinforced crash beams and a hot-formed cross beam provide additional protection for both occupants and the battery.

In terms of active safety, the MGS5 EV is equipped with 16 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) sub-functions, covering a wide range of driving scenarios. These include Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB), Intelligent Headlamp Control (IHC), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Traffic Jam Assist (TJA), and various lane-keeping and driver-monitoring systems.

For passive safety, the vehicle includes seven airbags as standard, including a centre airbag that enhances occupant protection in the event of a side impact.

Physical Controls in a Digital Age

While most modern EVs rely solely on touchscreen controls, even for basic functions like adjusting air-conditioning, the MGS5 EV stands out by including physical buttons and switches. This not only improves ease of use but also reduces driver distraction.

The interior features a 12.8-inch central touchscreen, a layered dashboard design, and a clearly laid-out physical control panel.

It is equipped with a flat-top-and-bottom 3-spoke steering wheel, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a rotary gear knob, and a wireless charging pad.

The Voice You’ll Never Forget

Not everything is perfect. The wireless charging pad was somewhat slow and tended to overheat the phone. Using the USB ports located under the armrest proved more efficient.

But the most frustrating thing with the car during our journey was the speed limit warning chime. This audible alert triggered every two minutes, and there was no way to disable it. MG has since confirmed that an upcoming software update will allow users to mute this feature, something we look forward to, as the repeated warnings became quite bothersome over a long trip.

Worth the Extra Ringgit?

At RM135,900 for the top-spec LUX Long Range, the MGS5 EV is slightly more expensive than some competitors. However, considering the well-rounded feature set, thoughtful design, and impressive performance, the added cost feels justified.

You’re not just paying for an electric vehicle; you’re paying for comfort, usability, and peace of mind on the road.

Specifications:

MGS5 EV LUX Long Range

Price: RM135,900

Motors: Single Rear Motor

Power: 170PS and 250Nm

Battery: 62 kWh Blade LFP

Range: 430km (WLTP)

Charging: 150kW DC / 7kW AC

We like: Physical controls

We don’t like: Speed limit warning

Jaecoo J8 Premium Off-Road SUV Launched in Malaysia from RM178,800

Jaecoo Malaysia has launched its latest model, the Jaecoo J8, strengthening its position as a rising contender in the SUV segment. As the fourth addition to the brand’s local portfolio, the new flagship model is engineered to deliver a blend of luxury and off-road capability.

The Jaecoo J8 is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection inline-four engine, generating 246hp and 385Nm of torque. Mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission and twin exhaust outlets, the powertrain promises both responsiveness and efficiency, underscoring the vehicle’s dual-purpose design for both city driving and more demanding terrains.

Buyers will have the choice between two distinct variants. The Two-Wheel Drive (2WD) version, configured with five seats, offers ample boot space at 738 litres, catering to families and individuals seeking everyday practicality. The All-Wheel Drive (AWD) variant, on the other hand, introduces a more rugged six-seater configuration, enhanced by Jaecoo’s Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system, which adapts to changing road conditions for improved ride quality. The AWD version is also capable of handling harsher environments, with a wading depth of up to 450mm, highlighting its off-road credentials.

Inside, the Jaecoo J8 is equipped with advanced technology and comfort-focused features that elevate the driving experience. Both variants come equipped with a 12.3-inch media display and a 540-degree panoramic camera system, providing superior visibility and convenience. The 2WD model is furnished with a 12-speaker Sony audio system, ambient interior lighting, and faux leather upholstery, in addition to six airbags to ensure occupant safety.

The AWD variant takes the luxury offering further with a 14-speaker Sony system that includes headrest speakers, as well as 10 airbags for heightened safety assurance. It also adds premium touches such as genuine leather seats, suede interior panels, powered door operations, and an integrated automatic fragrance system.

Convenience is enhanced across the board with features such as Near Field Communication (NFC) for contactless vehicle access, ventilated front seats, a built-in digital video recorder (DVR), and automatic parking assistance. Passenger comfort receives a further boost through electronically adjustable front and second-row seats, which come with built-in massage functions and privacy-enhancing curtain shades, particularly in the AWD model.

Jaecoo Malaysia has priced the J8 competitively, with the 2WD variant retailing at RM178,800 and the AWD six-seater version at RM198,800. The 2WD version is available in understated single-tone finishes, including Carbon Crystal Black, Khaki White, and Olive Grey. In contrast, the AWD variant offers a bolder appearance through dual-tone colour schemes of the same hues.

It comes with seven years vehicle warranty or 150,000km, or whichever comes first. For bookings placed up to 21 July 2025, you get one year free insurance coverage, 10 years engine warranty or unlimited kilometres, whichever comes first.

With the introduction of the J8, Jaecoo aims to attract discerning buyers seeking a premium SUV that does not compromise on performance, comfort, or versatility. The model’s launch reflects Jaecoo Malaysia’s continued commitment to delivering high-value vehicles that meet the evolving demands of the local market.

New Proton X50 Attracts 5,000 Bookings in Just 10 Days

The All-New Proton X50 has captured the attention of Malaysians nationwide, with 5,000 bookings recorded within just 10 days of opening its order books on 5 July. The overwhelming response follows a highly successful nationwide prelaunch tour that brought the new SUV to major city attractions, where eager onlookers turned up in droves for a glimpse of Proton’s latest B-segment contender.

According to Proton, one booking for the All-New X50 is received every three minutes. This impressive rate reflects a 50 per cent take-up of the early bird promotion, which offers a RM1,000 cash rebate, a special edition Touch ‘n Go card, and an exclusive GEMPAK! Deal. These incentives are reserved for the first 10,000 customers, with only half of that number still available.

The full pricing structure of the All-New X50 will be disclosed during its official launch event, scheduled for the evening of 24 July. Ahead of that, Proton has announced that public test drives will commence at showrooms nationwide from 19 July, giving potential buyers the opportunity to experience the vehicle’s performance and features first-hand.

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Zeekr Sunway Officially Opens, Signalling Major Expansion for the Premium EV Brand in Malaysia

Zeekr Malaysia marked a significant milestone with the official opening of Zeekr Sunway in the heart of Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, representing a major stride forward for the premium electric vehicle brand in the country. Spearheaded by Sunway Marketing, Zeekr’s pioneering dealer partner in Malaysia, the launch solidifies the company’s commitment to building a strong retail and service ecosystem in one of Malaysia’s most vibrant urban hubs.

The new establishment, which comprises the Zeekr Space Sunway City showroom and the adjacent Zeekr Sunway Service Centre, represents an investment exceeding RM10 million. Together, these facilities are designed to support every phase of the Zeekr ownership journey — from purchase and delivery to aftersales care — and reflect a holistic approach to customer engagement and satisfaction.

Zeekr Space Sunway City occupies an 11,100 square-foot footprint along Persiaran Lagoon, on the site of the former Sunway City helipad. The facility houses six dedicated display bays, showcasing the brand’s latest offerings such as the Zeekr X and Zeekr 009. It also includes two delivery bays, giving customers the opportunity to celebrate and capture the moment of receiving their new vehicle.

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TOP SECRET’s One-of-a-Kind VR32 Stealth GT-R Set to Headline TAS 2025

Japanese tuning legend TOP SECRET is returning to the Tokyo Auto Salon Kuala Lumpur (TAS) this year with one of its most celebrated and rarest creations – the VR32 Stealth Nissan GT-R.

The highly anticipated showcase will take place from 8 to 10 August 2025 atthe Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), where fans will also get the chance to meet the mastermind behind the machine, Kazuhiko “Smokey” Nagata, now making his third consecutive appearance at the event.

At the heart of the VR32 Stealth GT-R is an ambitious and meticulously executed fusion: the 3.8-litre powerplant from the modern R35 GT-R has been transplanted into the shell of the iconic BNR32.

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New Honda HR-V Officially Launched – Prices Start From RM115,900

After weeks of teasing, Honda Malaysia has officially taken the cover off the new, facelifted Honda HR-V.

With over 170,000 units sold after it was first introduced, the new HR-V is set to continue the success story.

The updated third-generation model brings with it a slew of updates that further cement its position as the number one non-national B-Segment SUV in the country.

From the outside, the updates include a new front grille that is wider than before.

The new front is further distinguished by a redesigned front bumper.

The updates to the rear are limited to a new, sleeker full-LED tail light cluster while other exterior updates include redesigned wheels.

All variants also come with 18-inch wheels now while before the lower two variants ran on 17-inchers.

As for the interior of the car, the centre console has been updated and now includes a storage compartment slotted right below the air-conditioning controls.

The eight-inch infotainment system now comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

Choice of powertrains are the same as before, with a 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated, four-cylinder DOHC, i-VTEC engine putting out 121PS and 145Nm of torque, transferred to the wheels through a CVT gearbox. This is found in the entry level HRVs and is the same engine powering the Honda City.

Further up, there is a 1.5-litre VTEC, Turbo engine rated at 181PS and 240Nm with power sent to the wheels through a CVT gearbox.

The flagship e:HEV hybrid model also remains unchanged as far as the powertrain is concerned. It offers an engine that works as a generator for an electric motor.

The motor puts out 131PS and 253Nm while the 1.5-litre, naturally-aspirated, DOHC, I-VTEC four-pot engine puts out 105PS and 127Nm.

The hybrid system in Hondas is unique because unlike other hybrid powertrains, the Atkinson Cycle engine is able to exclusively power the car at high speed without the electric motor backing it up.

As for safety systems, Honda Sensing is now available for all variants. However, there are two new systems that have now been included for the flagship, the Adaptive Driving Beam and the Active Cornering Light.

The price for all variants are as follows:

HRV S-Variant – RM115,900

HRV E-Variant – RM130,900

HRV V-Variant – RM137,900

HRV e:HEV RS- RM143,900

iCAUR Malaysia Unveils iCAUR iCONIC Roadshow at Desa ParkCity with All-Electric 03 SUV

iCAUR Malaysia is strengthening its presence in the local EV scene with the launch of the iCAUR iCONIC Roadshow, a 10-day experiential showcase running from 17 to 27 July 2025 at The Waterfront, Desa ParkCity. This initiative aims to bring the brand’s trailblazing innovation and bold design philosophy closer to the public, offering a deeper look into the much-anticipated iCAUR 03 electric SUV.

As Malaysia continues to lead iCAUR’s global expansion, the country has become the first international market to debut the all-electric iCAUR 03. The momentum from earlier iXPERIENCE roadshows held at Eco Ardence and 1 Utama has carried over into this latest event, which places the brand’s off-road-ready SUV in a vibrant urban environment for prospective customers to experience firsthand.

The iCAUR 03 is available in two powertrain options, tailored to suit a range of driving preferences. The standard two-wheel-drive (2WD) version is powered by a 184PS motor delivering 220Nm of torque, and is equipped with a 65.7kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, offering an NEDC-rated range of 426km. For those seeking enhanced performance, the Intelligent Wheel Drive (iWD) variant features dual motors with a combined output of 279PS and 385Nm of torque. It comes with a 69.8kWh battery capable of delivering a 418km range under the NEDC standard.

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Five Reasons Why: Never a Better Time To Buy a Honda CRV e:HEV RS

Over the years, the Honda CR-V has cemented itself as the darling of Malaysian car buyers looking for a spacious SUV.

Ever since it was first introduced back in 1997, the CR-V has found a place in close to half a million homes, or perhaps more.

It is not difficult to see why it is so popular either. The CR-V offers a pleasant combination of comfort, practicality and advanced features.

Over the years, the CR-V has found itself in the crosshairs of aggressive competitors. First it was competition from other Japanese marques, particularly the Toyota RAV4, Nissan X-Trail, Subaru Forester and the Suzuki Grand Vitara.

Then came the Koreans with the Hyundai Tucson and the Kia Sportage. Later the Americans joined the fight too with the Ford Escape and Chevrolet Captiva.

Of course, the competition has been relentless with more salvo’s from within Japan with Mazda introducing the CX-7, Mitsubishi and the Outlander / ASX and even the Europeans with the Volkswagen Tiguan and the Peugeot 3008.

Fast forward a couple of years though, and it is safe to say that the competition has never been more heated.

Now, we have fights on almost all fronts. Proton shook things up with the X70 and Chinese marques like Chery and the Tiggo 7 and the Haval H6 has meant that the CR-V is now a big fish in an ever-decreasing pond.

It is a good time to be a buyer though because you are spoilt for choice. So, in a world of choices, does the Honda CR-V still make a solid case for itself to convince you to part with your hard-earned money?

We think so, and here are five reasons why:

1. Efficiency.

In the context of the flagship Honda CR-V RS e:HEV, efficiency is something that it excels at.

Honda Malaysia claims that the hybrid CR-V can travel 20km on just a litre of fuel. Now car makers have a tendency of overestimating the capabilities of their cars, so we put that claim to the test earlier this year and achieved a remarkable 19.8km per litre. That is pretty close and good enough for us.

So, in a time where everything seems to be getting more expensive and unpredictable, a car that is consistently efficient should be a relief.

2. BOSE audio system.

A good audio system should never be underestimated. We spend a lot of time in our cars and one of the best things to do is to listen to your favourite music in absolute clarity.

A lot of car makers offer decent connectivity these days with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, but very few offer a good sound system.

We have tried out the BOSE sound system and it is simply remarkable. And let’s not forget that BOSE was once only available in more expensive cars, so the fact that Honda Malaysia is offering it in its flagship CR-V is commendable.

3. Refinement.

Another point never to be underestimated. Not sure about you, but we find it incredibly annoying when wind and tyre noise is noticeable inside the cabin. That is a deal breaker, and a lot of car models have been ticked off the list by buyers simply because their cabins were noisy when on the move.

Not the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV though. It offers a silent, refined interior which it achieves by using two key pieces of technology: wheel resonators and active noise cancellation.

Wheel resonators are small chambers in wheels with enclosed plastic or rubber materials. These are usually attached to the surface of the wheel to absorb sound and vibrations.

And the Active Noise Cancellation technology is a clever piece of technology which was first introduced in the headphones worn by pilots some years ago. This technology emits sound frequencies through the speakers that cancel out ambient sounds, making the cabin quieter.

And there is no better indication of a premium car than a cabin that remains quiet in all situations.

4. Driving dynamics.

How do you tell apart the “OG’s” from the newcomers? From the way they drive of course.

So, there might be a lot of newcomers to the SUV market, but there is one thing that almost all of them will struggle to match and that is the driving dynamics of Honda cars.

This may not be important to all car buyers, but after you have driven a car with a well-tuned ride and handling, it will be difficult to drive anything else.

Have you ever felt dead spots in a car’s steering? The part where you turn the steering wheel, but nothing happens? Annoying, isn’t it? You don’t get that in a Honda.

Honda cars are designed to respond to all your steering input and it is something that you must feel to believe. So, visit your closest Honda showroom to feel it for yourself.

5. Honda Sensing.

Safety, safety, safety. Every car maker talks about it and every car has it. Honda included.

But what is Honda Sensing you might ask? It is basically a suite of advanced safety systems designed to keep you and other road users safe. And the Honda CR-V RS e:HEV comes filled to the brim with safety systems.

It comes with such systems like Forward Collision Warning, Collision Mitigation Braking System, Lane Departure Warning and even Adaptive Cruise Control with Low-Speed Follow.

It has many other systems, but the hybrid variant is the only CR-V to come with Adaptive Driving Beam. This ensures you don’t accidentally blind oncoming cars by automatically moving the light beam away to illuminate other dark spots on the road. Clever, isn’t it? Thought so too.

Never a better time to buy a Honda CR-V.

It’s true. Among the many competitors, the Honda CR-V has made a name for itself as a purveyor of space, comfort and practicality.

And Honda Malaysia has further sweetened the deal with its Mid-Year Bonanza rebates. This is where you will get to enjoy total combined rewards of up to RM13,000* (RM10,000* in cash and RM3,000* service voucher and valid until 31st of July 2025).

So, if a big SUV at under RM200,000 is what you want, the Honda CRV e:HEV RS is the one you want.

*Terms and conditions apply

Chery Malaysia Pledges RM50,000 to National Sports Fund, Commits Proceeds from Tiggo Cross Sales to Athlete Development

Chery Malaysia has reinforced its commitment to national development through sports by announcing a RM50,000 contribution to the National Sports Trust Fund (KWASN). The announcement was made during the official launch of the all-new Chery Tiggo Cross on 9 July 2025, underscoring the company’s intent to support Malaysian excellence beyond the automotive sector.

More than a symbolic gesture, Chery’s latest initiative includes a broader commitment to channel a portion of the proceeds from every unit of the new Tiggo Cross sold this year directly to KWASN. This sustained contribution aims to strengthen the nation’s sporting foundation and provide continuous backing to athletes and sports associations throughout the country.

Michael Chew, Vice President of Chery Malaysia, stated that the brand’s philosophy of performance extends beyond vehicles and is rooted in empowering individuals. He emphasised that the company seeks to uplift Malaysian athletes and local sports bodies, enabling them to achieve success on the global stage. This latest initiative, he said, is part of Chery’s broader mission to champion Malaysian talent and bolster their prospects internationally.

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Lamborghini Temerario Unleashed in Malaysia – RM1.35 Million

Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur has officially unveiled the highly anticipated Lamborghini Temerario, which replaces the iconic Huracán, marking its electrified Malaysian launch, joining the Revuelto.

Originally launched at Monterey Car Week in August 2024, the Temerario has now made its Southeast Asian debut in one of Lamborghini’s most important emerging markets. Presented in a striking Blu Marinus finish, the model displayed reflects the brand’s evolving design language and engineering ethos, merging raw mechanical excellence with hybrid innovation.

At the core of the Temerario is a completely new 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, engineered in Sant’Agata Bolognese, which revs to an astonishing 10,000 rpm. Paired with three electric motors — two on the front axle and one integrated between the engine and gearbox — the hybrid system delivers a combined output of approximately 920PS. This allows the Temerario to accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in just 2.7 seconds and achieve a top speed of over 343km/h.

Structurally, the car rides on a new lightweight aluminium spaceframe that is 20 per cent stiffer than its predecessor, providing enhanced agility and torsional rigidity. The aerodynamic package has also seen major advancements, with Lamborghini claiming a 118 per cent increase in downforce over the Huracán EVO, rising to 158 per cent with the optional Alleggerita lightweight package. This variant further reduces weight by over 25 kg through the use of carbon-fibre wheels and body components.

Inside, the Temerario features a futuristic cockpit that Lamborghini describes as “pilot-inspired.” The cabin offers improved headroom, redesigned comfort seating, and an intuitive new human-machine interface (HMI). Technological highlights include Lamborghini Telemetry 2.0, integrated dashcam functionality, a memory recorder, and an augmented reality (AR) navigation system.

The Lamborghini Temerario is now open for booking in Malaysia through Lamborghini Kuala Lumpur, with a starting price of RM 1,350,000 before duties, taxes and personalisation.

The arrival of the Temerario marks a significant milestone for Lamborghini in Malaysia, representing the brand’s commitment to hybrid performance under its broader “Direzione Cor Tauri” electrification strategy. It is also the first time a Lamborghini production car features a V8 as the centrepiece — and what a statement it makes.

For Malaysian supercar enthusiasts, the Temerario offers not only blistering performance and engineering brilliance but also a glimpse into the electrified future of Italian motoring passion.