The MG5 EV is one of a few all-electric estate cars on sale today – the others being the much more expensive, such as the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo, BMW i5 and Volkswagen ID.7, which are a different proposition entirely. As a result, the MG5 is a family car that competes pretty much in a class of one, being more of a rival to electric SUVs such as the Volkswagen ID.4 or Peugeot E-2008.

Being the first doesn’t necessarily make you good, but there is plenty to recommend about the MG5. For its low price it’s remarkably accomplished in terms of usability, practicality and reliability – what it lacks is desirability.

Launched in the UK in 2020, the MG5 underwent a minor update in 2021 which streamlined the trim levels and upped the car’s range. For 2022, it’s been given a more extensive facelift which upgrades the styling inside and out – a good thing, as the old car’s dowdy styling and rather low-rent interior were two areas where it suffered against more modern-feeling rivals.

Now that it’s no longer astonishingly bland, the MG5 can get on with its main job – being a low-priced electric car that’s more practical than other entry-level options such as the Renault Zoe or Fiat 500 Electric.

Choosing an MG5 couldn’t be simpler, with just one powertrain and two trim levels. All models come with a touchscreen infotainment system, LED headlights, air-conditioning, app connectivity and MG’s full suite of driver aids, known as ‘MG Pilot’. Step up from entry-level SE into Trophy trim and you’ll also get climate control, a 360-degree camera system, rear privacy glass, heated seats and posher 17-inch alloy wheels.

These upgrades come at a price, though, and the MG5’s no longer quite as shockingly cheap as it was – especially when you compare it to the brand’s latest release, the MG4 EV.

Over the next few pages we’ll go over what the MG5 is like inside and out, rating its comfort, practicality, and what it’s like to drive. We’ll dive into the running costs and then give our definitive verdict.