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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

China Moves to Limit One-Pedal Driving in Electric Vehicles Under New National Safety Standards

China is set to introduce new regulations that will reshape how regenerative braking systems operate in electric vehicles (EVs), a move likely to impact the growing segment of drivers who favour one-pedal driving. The new rule, outlined under the national standard GB 21670-2025, is scheduled to come into effect on 1 January 2027.

This legislation will prohibit EVs from having a default driving mode that brings the car to a complete stop simply by releasing the accelerator pedal. While the rule does not entirely ban one-pedal functionality, it requires that such features no longer be the vehicle’s default setting. The change appears to be aimed more at enhancing road safety than improving battery efficiency.

According to a report by The Paper, a Chinese news outlet, the primary concern behind the new regulation is the delayed braking response observed in drivers accustomed to strong regenerative braking. Studies have indicated that drivers relying heavily on regenerative deceleration may hesitate to apply the brake pedal in emergency situations—where the stopping power provided by regenerative systems alone proves insufficient. This delay could compromise reaction times, especially in critical moments requiring full braking force.

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Rimac Nevera R Sets New Global Benchmarks, Surpassing All Previous Records

Rimac Automobili has once again redefined the limits of electric performance with the Nevera R, a cutting-edge evolution of its world-beating hypercar. Following the extraordinary achievements of the original Nevera—most notably the feat of shattering 23 performance records in a single day in 2023 at Germany’s Automotive Testing Papenburg (ATP) facility—the Nevera R has now eclipsed every one of those benchmarks.

The latest testing, carried out in high-speed mode and independently validated by Dewesoft, served as the final phase of performance verification ahead of customer deliveries. The results have firmly cemented the Nevera R’s position as the most formidable production EV in automotive history.

Among the most staggering accomplishments is the Nevera R’s 0–400–0km/h record, which now stands at an astonishing 25.79 seconds, reducing the original Nevera’s time by 4.14 seconds. Acceleration from 0–60 mph has also improved to 1.66 seconds, bettering the previous 1.74-second benchmark. It reaches 100km/h in just 1.72 seconds, down from 1.81 seconds, while 200km/h is now achieved in 3.95 seconds, trimming nearly half a second from the original’s time of 4.42 seconds. At 300km/h, the Nevera R completes the sprint in 7.89 seconds—1.33 seconds faster than the standard model. Its maximum velocity has climbed to 431.45km/h, setting a new record for the highest top speed ever achieved by a production electric vehicle.

These gains are not merely the result of raw power. Rimac has re-engineered nearly every major component of the vehicle. A newly designed aerodynamic package, including a fixed rear wing and larger rear diffuser, increases downforce by 15% while enhancing aerodynamic efficiency by 10%. This allows for improved high-speed stability and control, vital at the extreme performance levels the Nevera R now reaches.

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Zeekr Kukuhkan Komitmen di Malaysia dengan Penubuhan Syarikat Jualan Nasional

Jenama kenderaan elektrik mewah dari China, Zeekr, telah memperkukuhkan kehadirannya di Malaysia melalui penubuhan syarikat baharu, Zeekr Intelligent Technology (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd, yang akan bertindak sebagai Syarikat Jualan Nasional (NSC) bagi pasaran tempatan. Langkah ini mencerminkan komitmen serius Zeekr untuk memperluas operasi dan mengukuhkan kedudukannya dalam landskap kenderaan elektrik (EV) yang semakin berkembang di Malaysia serta rantau Asia Tenggara.

Melalui penubuhan NSC ini, Zeekr akan mengawal secara langsung pelbagai aspek perniagaannya di Malaysia termasuk pengedaran borong, pembangunan rangkaian pengedar, strategi jenama, pelaksanaan inisiatif pemasaran dan juga sokongan selepas jualan di seluruh negara. Penstrukturan ini adalah sebahagian daripada strategi global Zeekr yang telah menunjukkan pertumbuhan luar biasa — mencapai angka pengeluaran 500,000 unit secara global setakat Jun 2025 dan berjaya menembusi lebih 40 pasaran di seluruh dunia.

Menurut Pengarah Urusan Zeekr Asia Tenggara, Alex Bao, Malaysia merupakan pasaran yang strategik bagi Zeekr di rantau ini. Beliau menyatakan bahawa pelaburan yang signifikan telah dan akan terus disalurkan untuk membina kehadiran yang mampan dan berpaksikan kepada keperluan pelanggan tempatan. Beliau turut menegaskan bahawa penubuhan NSC ini akan berperanan sebagai jambatan utama antara Zeekr dan pengguna di Malaysia, membolehkan syarikat bertindak balas dengan lebih pantas terhadap maklum balas pelanggan serta mengukuhkan tiga bidang utama: peluasan rangkaian, pengukuhan perkhidmatan selepas jualan, dan peningkatan strategi pemasaran.

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SISMA Auto Unveils New DENZA Showroom and Service Centre in Glenmarie

SISMA Auto has taken a major step forward in the luxury electric vehicle (EV) space with the grand opening of its brand-new DENZA showroom and service centre in Glenmarie, Shah Alam. The launch marks a significant milestone in the group’s ambitious expansion strategy, signalling a deep commitment to the growing demand for premium electric mobility in Malaysia.

DENZA, a luxury EV marque under the global automotive giant BYD, is quickly becoming a rising star in international markets. As one of the first dealers to bring the DENZA brand to Malaysian shores, SISMA Auto is positioning itself at the forefront of this new wave of high-end electrification. The dealership’s collaboration with DENZA is aligned with BYD’s broader global momentum, aiming to elevate the standard for premium EV ownership in the country.

Spanning a sprawling 20,000 square feet across two levels, the new showroom represents a substantial RM25 million investment. Designed to reflect DENZA’s forward-thinking brand identity, the showroom combines modern aesthetics with an emphasis on sustainability. Its clean lines, elegant finishes and refined atmosphere create an immersive space where visitors can experience DENZA’s cutting-edge models up close.

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iCAUR 03 Dipamerkan di Acara Pandu Uji Off-Road di 1 Utama

Malaysia mencatat sejarah sebagai pasaran antarabangsa pertama di luar China yang mempratonton iCAUR 03, SUV elektrik sepenuhnya pertama dari China yang direka khusus untuk keupayaan off-road. Selepas pelancaran globalnya di Shanghai, iCAUR 03 membuat kemunculan sulung di Malaysia Autoshow 2025 dan kini dipamerkan dalam acara iEXPERIENCE Off-Road Test Drive yang diadakan di Pusat Beli-belah 1 Utama.

Kenderaan ini menandakan lembaran baharu dalam dunia mobiliti elektrik tempatan, membawa bersama gabungan teknologi canggih, reka bentuk teguh dan prestasi dinamik untuk memenuhi keperluan penggemar pengembaraan moden.

Naib Presiden iCAUR Malaysia, Emily Lek, menyifatkan iCAUR 03 sebagai titik permulaan kemasukan jenama itu ke pasaran Malaysia. Beliau menjelaskan bahawa model ini bukan sekadar SUV elektrik biasa, sebaliknya sebuah kenderaan off-road pintar yang menawarkan pengalaman premium menerusi inovasi dan kejuruteraan terkini. Slogan jenama, “Born to Play”, menggambarkan falsafah iCAUR – gabungan kecerdasan, utiliti dan gaya moden yang direka untuk pemilik yang aktif dan berjiwa eksplorasi.

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Ferrari Tangguh Pelancaran Kenderaan Elektrik Kedua ke Tahun 2028

Usaha Ferrari untuk bergerak sepenuhnya ke arah elektrifikasi telah mengalami kemunduran yang ketara apabila projek kenderaan elektrik (EV) sepenuhnya kedua syarikat itu ditangguhkan sekurang-kurangnya sehingga tahun 2028. Pada asalnya, model berkenaan dijadualkan dilancarkan menjelang akhir 2026, namun sumber dalaman mendedahkan kepada Reuters bahawa pelancaran kini ditunda selama dua tahun.

Menurut dua individu yang arif dengan perkara ini, penangguhan tersebut berpunca daripada permintaan pasaran yang lemah, termasuk dalam kalangan pelanggan Ferrari sendiri—yang biasanya terkenal dengan kesetiaan tinggi dan kemampuan membeli luar biasa. Ferrari pada mulanya merancang untuk memperkenalkan model elektrik pertamanya dan diikuti segera dengan model kedua sebagai sebahagian daripada strategi elektrifikasi jangka panjang syarikat. Namun, semakan semula unjuran dalaman menunjukkan bahawa pendekatan itu tidak lagi dapat dipertahankan buat masa ini.

Salah satu sumber menyatakan bahawa wujud jurang besar antara jangkaan pengeluar dan selera pasaran semasa, terutamanya dalam kategori EV berprestasi tinggi. Tambahnya, “permintaan kukuh bagi kereta elektrik prestasi tinggi masih belum wujud pada skala yang diperlukan untuk menjamin keuntungan.”

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PRO-NET Accelerates EV Expansion with Three New Dealerships Nationwide

PRO-NET, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Proton, has further extended its electric vehicle (EV) footprint this June with the grand opening of three new dealerships under its Proton e.MAS and smart brands. These new outlets in Kota Kinabalu, IOI Putrajaya, and Old Klang Road, Kuala Lumpur, mark a significant stride in the company’s strategy to enhance EV accessibility across Malaysia.

With these additions, the Proton e.MAS network now comprises 35 fully operational dealerships out of a total of 47 appointed across both Peninsular and East Malaysia. The newly unveiled branches include Fook Loi Eurocar in Kota Kinabalu, Jewel Sonic at IOI City Mall, Putrajaya, and Peringgit Auto Max on Old Klang Road, Kuala Lumpur. These locations boast complete sales, service, and support facilities tailored to the e.MAS 7—the fastest-selling EV in Malaysia, which has surpassed 3,000 units sold in less than a year.

The network expansion is supported by a robust ecosystem, including 25 3S centres (sales, service, and spare parts), 31 DC fast charging stations, and 10 body and paint centres. PRO-NET’s efforts reflect the company’s dedication to delivering a seamless EV ownership experience for Malaysian consumers.

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Nissan Showcases Next-Generation LEAF with Behind-the-Scenes Video Series

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has unveiled a behind-the-scenes look at the development of its all-new LEAF electric vehicle through a newly released three-part video series. The short films highlight the vision and work of the teams behind the planning, design, and engineering of what is described as a truly third-generation electric vehicle.

Having sold nearly 700,000 units globally since the LEAF’s debut in 2010, Nissan has drawn heavily on over a decade of experience and customer feedback in shaping the latest model. Across those years, owners of the pioneering electric vehicle are estimated to have collectively driven close to 28 billion kilometres, providing a rich foundation of data and real-world usage that informed the creation of the next-generation LEAF.

Described by Nissan as one of its core “heartbeat models,” the LEAF remains a symbol of the company’s bold innovation strategy. Since its launch as the first mass-market electric vehicle, it has been a global ambassador of Nissan’s commitment to doing what others shy away from, combining technological innovation with practical design to redefine what an EV can be.

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Chery Unveils Budget-Friendly QQ Domi Electric SUV in China Amid Intensifying EV Price War

Chinese carmaker Chery has introduced its latest electric vehicle, the QQ Domi, a compact electric SUV aimed at budget-conscious consumers in China. With pricing starting from only ¥59,900 (around RM38,500), the new model enters the market at a time when competition in China’s electric vehicle (EV) segment continues to heat up.

The QQ Domi is available in two variants. The base version, available at a promotional launch price, offers a driving range of up to 305km on the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC) and is powered by a 28.5 kWh battery. The extended-range model, priced at ¥69,900 (around RM45,000), increases the driving distance to 405km with a larger 39.33 kWh battery.

With dimensions measuring 3,720mm in length, 1,700mm in width, and 1,608mm in height, the QQ Domi sits in the same class as BYD’s popular Seagull EV, a leading contender in the compact EV space. Despite its small footprint, Chery’s new model offers features typically seen in more premium offerings.