Written by Curtis Moldrich Published: 28 July 2025

Overview

Should you buy an MG IM5?

Yes, if the early signs are anything to go by. The MG IM5 is a well-rounded and seriously interesting new offering that tilts at our best electric cars list. It offers sharp styling, a plush cabin and lots of technology – all while undercutting rivals like the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal on price.

It’s available with three power outputs and two battery sizes, with the 100kWh single-motor version delivering up to 441 miles of range. It’s quiet, fast and comfortable – especially on the motorway – and the dual-motor Performance version is properly rapid.

There are a few things we’d like to see improved, like the steering feel, braking performance and infotainment quirks. But overall, the IM5 is a credible premium EV that deserves to be on your shortlist.

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What’s new?

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The IM5 is the first car in MG’s new premium ‘IM’ sub-brand, and it’s aiming squarely at the Tesla Model 3. A rakish four-door saloon with slippery lines and minimalist detailing, it sits alongside the IM6 SUV in MG’s new line-up and shares its EV platform with both that and China-only Audi-branded models.

There’s plenty riding on the IM5 for MG. It debuts a slicker new design direction, more upmarket materials inside, and technology that includes active noise cancelling and four-wheel steering. It’s MG’s most advanced car yet, by some margin.

Looks-wise, it plays it safe from the front, but the rear-end styling is sharp and distinctly upmarket. MG says the rear light signature is inspired by Aston Martin, and from some angles, you can see the influence.

Performance figures are impressive, particularly for the top-spec all-wheel-drive model. With 742hp and a 0-62mph time of 3.2 seconds, this is a proper performance EV. But even the lower-powered versions promise competitive range, refinement and value.

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What’s it like inside?

Step inside the IM5 and you’ll find a high-tech, lounge-like cabin dominated by a huge 26.3-inch wraparound screen. It covers both the instrument cluster and infotainment in a seamless sweep, and it’s sharp, fast and bright – even in strong sunlight.

Beneath the central air vents sits another screen for vehicle functions like windows, ADAS settings and air conditioning. It’s intuitive to use once you’re familiar with the layout, though we’d still prefer physical buttons for the climate control.

Space in the cabin is generous, with ample room front and rear. The materials generally feel premium, though a few touchpoints – like the faux leather and some plastic inserts – let the side down slightly. Active and passive noise-cancellation make it impressively hushed inside, even at higher speeds.

Boot space is 457 litres with the seats up and 1,290 litres with them down, plus there’s an 18-litre ‘frunk’. That’s roomy enough, but still behind the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal when it comes to carrying capacity.

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What’s it like to drive?

Out on the road, the IM5 is impressively refined. On the motorway, it’s near-silent thanks to active noise cancelling, with only the occasional rustle from the door mirrors breaking the calm. Long-distance driving is effortless and stress-free.

It’s not quite as settled around town. On lumpier roads the ride becomes a little jittery, and you feel more of the surface imperfections than you’d expect in a car pitched as premium. Still, on most roads it’s composed and comfortable enough to compete.

Performance is strong across the board. The entry-level model with 291hp is quick enough, while the 100kWh single-motor model hits the sweet spot between range and usable pace. The dual-motor Performance version is properly fast – that 3.2-second 0-62mph time puts it in supercar territory.

Handling is tidy, too. Four-wheel steering helps it feel agile in town and composed on twisty roads. However, the steering feel is inconsistent – overly light in places and oddly heavy in others – and the brakes lack initial bite. Still, it feels rear-biased and nicely balanced, and the narrow body helps confidence behind the wheel.

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What models and trims are available?

The IM5 line-up is simple, with three models to choose from. The entry-level car costs £39,450 and pairs a 75kWh battery with 291hp and 304 miles of range. It uses a 400-volt system, so charging isn’t quite as rapid as the others.

Next up is the £44,995 long-range version, which gets a 100kWh battery, 800-volt architecture and 441 miles of range. It’s rear-wheel drive only but feels quick enough and is likely to be the best-seller.

Topping the range is the all-wheel-drive Performance model. Priced from £48,495, it offers 742hp, 357 miles of range and huge performance, but rides on 21-inch wheels and feels more compromised for everyday use. Expect more trim variations to follow as MG refines the IM sub-brand.

Take a look at our explainer page if you want to know more about how we test cars – while our initial ratings for the MG IM5 can be found on the next page.