MG5 launched in Malaysia, priced from RM93,900

Following the preview in August, SAIC Motor Malaysia tonight launched the MG5 with a price of RM93,900 (excluding insurance). As an introductory offer, there is a RM7,000 rebate for a limited period, bringing the price down to RM86,900.

CBU from Thailand
Only one version of the 4-door sedan is offered at this time, and it is imported as a CBU (completely built-up) unit from Thailand where SAIC Motor-CP set up a factory in 2017. Under the AFTA (ASEAN Free Trade Area) agreement, vehicles made in Thailand are exempted from import duty.

Sleek profile
Though most sedans typically have a formal 3-box profile, the MG5 has been styled with a sleek fastback silhouette that gives it a sporty image. The bold 3-dimensional front grille is flanked by LED headlights while the rear end has a ducktail spoiler to enhance aerodynamics.

Customers have a choice of 5 colours including the striking Nuclear Yellow which was one of the classic yellow colours that MG used for the MGB GT in the 1970s.

Largest B-segment sedan
The MG5 is a B-segment model and it is right at the top end in terms of dimensions. With a 4675 mm length, 1842mm width and 2680mm wheelbase, it is the longest and widest model in its class.

A good old petrol engine
Unlike the earlier MG models launched by SAIC Motor Malaysia which were EVs, the MG5 has the good old petrol engine (and no electric motor attached either). The size of the engine, with dual variable valve timing, is the common one in the region which is 1.5 litres with 114 bhp/150 Nm. Power flows to the front wheels through an 8-speed iCVT.

Driver-focussed interior
The long wheelbase allows for a more spacious cabin and with MG’s sportscar background, the layout is driver-focussed. The instrument panel is a slim fully digital 7-inch LCD with the infotainment system managed by a 10.25-inch touchscreen to the left of the 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Some of the standard features include:
• Power sunroof
• Electrically adjustable door mirrors
• Black upholstery with red accents
• 6-way power adjustment for driver’s seat
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity
• 360^o panoramic view camera
• 6 speakers and 3 USB ports
• Digital air-conditioning with PM 2.5 air filter
• Rear Air Vents

MG Pilot
The MG5 has a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) which it calls MG Pilot. This combines 3 active safety systems with 11 integrated sub-systems and use data from cameras and radar sensors.

These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Assist System), Front Driver Assist), and Rear Driver Assist, along with Lane Departure Warning, Lane Change Assist, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Collision Warning and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

In the event of a severe collision, there are 6 SRS airbags to provide additional protection against serious injuries.

The warranty is 5 years long, with no limit on mileage. Interestingly, although this isn’t an EV, SAIC Motor Malaysia also gives a separate warranty of 7 years – also with unlimited mileage – for the powertrain. Nevertheless, MG would confident that it is durable and reliable as the powertrain has gone through 2.35 million kms of testing during development.

Click here to view full specifications of the MG5

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