ENZHMS
Link Copiedcheck_circle
Review

Driven: MG 5 – A Proton S70 Killer?

Mukhlis Azman

29-1-2025

Share via

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-17.jpg

The MG 5 has all the chops to make it a decent yet affordable saloon, but will you favour it over the mighty Proton S70?

MG? Did You Mean AMG?

At a glance, the MG 5 fastback does closely ape a certain Affalterbach-made four-door fastback. Sure, imitation may be the biggest form of flattery, but we reckon this Anglo-Chinese saloon has enough design cues to set it apart from said German muse.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-18.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-21.jpg

Spanning over 4.6 metres long, the MG 5 is definitely not B-segment-sized, as it is actually closer to the Civic and Corolla in dimensions.

First thing’s first, the MG 5 is indeed a sizable saloon, despite MG Malaysia (SAIC Motor Malaysia) labelling it as a B-segment fighter. Spanning 4,675 MM long, 1,842 MM wide, 1,480 MM tall, and a wheelbase of 2,680 MM, this sporty fastback isn’t just longer than its perpetual rival, the Proton S70 (or the Geely Emgrand in their home market), it also stands neck-to-neck against ‘true’ C-segment saloons like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-2.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-11.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-15.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-24.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-6.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-5.jpg

What also odds out the MG 5 against its supposed B-segment adversaries is the overall styling, as it rocks a sleek, four-door fastback look instead of the traditional three-box sedan look. Further accentuating the MG 5’s sportiness are its distinct front face featuring sharp LED headlights flanking a massive front grille, a clean rear end featuring LED combination taillights and two faux tailpipes, as well as its 17-inch two-tone rolling stock.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-14.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-23.jpg

Whether you want to call it a B- or a C-segment sedan, the MG 5 fastback truly helps one to stand out, especially if you opt for the bold Nuclear Yellow hue as our tester. But given its somewhat sizable footprint, it’s natural to expect big things going inside too…


Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-9.jpg

Spacious & Ergonomical Interior, But…

Step inside the MG 5 and you’ll discover a pretty spacious cabin with an ergonomic and old-school-like layout, albeit with a string of hits and misses to go along.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-31.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-12.jpg

Starting with tech, the Malaysian-spec MG 5 gets a 10.25-inch screen that supports wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, but the user interface is messy, and it can be laggy at times. The same applies to its 7-inch digital instrument cluster, which looks bright and colourful, only to be hampered with the absence of ADAS-related displays.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-8.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-29.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-34.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-35.jpg

Old-school buyers would certainly appreciate the physical buttons and controls on the MG 5, while its hard plastic front dash might be a turn-off for some.

The hits and misses continue with the overall dash layout. It still gets some physical controls and dials for most driving-related stuff and climate control, but the hard plastics make the interior feel and look ‘cheap’. Though the faux leather-wrapped front seats feel quite nice and well-bolstered, only the driver’s side is powered, and there’s no ventilation for both.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-4.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-6.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-2.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-39.jpg

Moving to the rear cabin, the large footprint brings abundant legroom and even a space for dedicated A/C vents. However, the low sporty roofline and a high central transmission tunnel does rob quite a bit of space too. Last but not least, the 401-litre standard boot space is undoubtedly decent and can be expanded, but the absence of a spare tyre, despite seemingly having a dedicated compartment for one, is concerning.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-5.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-1.jpg

Putting aside our nitpicks, there’s not much to fault with the MG 5’s innards, especially after considering its relatively affordable price tag. What’s certain though is that the MG 5 does feel more spacious than its fellow B- (or C) segment rivals, but we’ll let you be the judge on whether such a comparison is fair or not.


Caricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-5.jpg

Sublime Ride & Handling, Gutless Powertrain

In case the MG 5’s sharp looks and spacious innards weren’t enough to convince you of this Sino-English number, perhaps the driving part may tell you otherwise.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-36.jpgCaricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-4.jpg

Let’s get the gritty part out first—the MG 5, at least in this non-turbocharged form, is admittedly a bit of a slouch if we’re honest. Before you ask, the headlining figures are 112 HP and 150 NM stemming out of the 1.5-litre 4-cyl nat-asp petrol heart co-developed by SAIC Motor and America’s General Motors (GM).

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-11.jpgCaricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-10.jpg

While said output is commonplace in most ‘true’ B-segment saloons out there, the same can’t be said for this C-segment-sized MG 5. The mill feels gutless at times, plus the slow response of the CVT gearbox paired with it also doesn't help in this department. Given that MG does offer the 5 with a peppier 1.5-litre turbocharged engine in native China, perhaps that would put on a better fight against the Proton S70, which actually gained blown mill over its Chinese nat-asp twin.

Caricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-2.jpgCaricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-7.jpg

While headlining numbers might not look good on the MG 5, this Anglo-Chinese number absolutely slaps on the dynamics front.

But one thing MG got absolutely right for the 5 sedan is on the ride and handling front, as this sporty number delivers decent driving dynamics without compromising much on the refinement. Compared to other Chinese cars we’ve tested prior, the MG 5 feels very sure-footed and planted while being quite nimble even for its borderline C-segment size.

Thanks to its seemingly lacklustre power output, the MG 5 is also not susceptible to any torque steers or wheelspins, thus providing you extra confidence in tackling curvy B-roads and twisties. Noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels are also quite decent here, with only minimal tyre roars detected at higher speeds.

Caricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-9.jpgCaricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-1.jpg

To wrap things up, the MG 5 is a sublime car to drive, only to be hampered by its underpowered powertrain setup. Had it not been for the four-pot lump, the MG 5 could potentially outclass its eternal rival in the driving department, but at least it gets a better fuel consumption rate as is.


Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-3.jpg

Questionable Safety, But Numbers Don’t Tell The Whole Story

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room. Even before setting ashore into our market, the MG 5 was constantly bombarded with critiques on its poor safety level, as the fastback saloon infamously scored a 0-star score for the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) crash test.

Caricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-3.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Int-19.jpg

On paper, however, it seems the Malaysian-spec MG 5 does get a pretty okay list of passive and active safety equipment, with the latter coming in the form of basic ADAS functions like Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and many more.

Passive safety equipment is also not too shabby, as things like a 360-degree camera system, six airbags, ABS with EBD, and both traction (TCS) and stability (VSC) controls are all present on the MG 5.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-16.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-10.jpg

Granted that ANCAP tests are generally more stringent compared to our region’s ASEAN-NCAP, we’d reckon the MG 5 could’ve scored at least two or three stars, provided that SAIC Motor Malaysia intends to submit the saloon for testing. Yes, we definitely can’t expect the MG 5 to outscore its star-studded rivals in said crash test, but a couple of stars are definitely better than zero.


Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-1.jpg

Should You Buy One?

Boldly styled, spacious interior, decent driving dynamics, the MG 5 has got all the potential to make for a decent alternative in this burgeoning affordable sedan segment.

At only RM93,900 a pop, this pseudo B-segment sedan is also one of the most affordable in the market. Included with said price is a comprehensive warranty package provided by SAIC Motor Malaysia, which includes a 5-year, unlimited mileage base vehicle warranty and a separate 7-year, unlimited mileage warranty for its powertrain setup.

Caricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-21.jpgCaricarz-MBA-MG5-Ext-4.jpg

While this sporty sedan managed to outsell its eternal rival back in China, we’d reckon the MG 5 might face stiffer competition against the Proton S70 in our backyard, given the extensive improvements and upgrades garnered by the national automaker to this Geely-born saloon. Having said that, we still think the MG 5 has its own perks and quirks over the burgeoning S70, provided that Malaysians are daring enough to take a leap of faith with this MG-badged saloon.

One thing is for sure, with the recent arrival of the MG 5 saloon into our market, it shows that demands for a four-door saloon are still alive and well in this SUV-laden market space, thus providing buyers with more alternatives over the reigning Japanese brands.


Caricarz-AS-MG5-Rolling-6.jpg

SPECIFICATIONS

MG 5 FASTBACK 

ENGINE1.5-litre 4-cyl naturally-aspirated L3A with VVT, petrol
TRANSMISSION8-speed i-CVT, FWD
POWER112 HP @ 6,000 RPM
TORQUE150 NM @ 4,500 RPM
0-100 KM/H11.5 seconds
V-MAX185 KM/H
ECONOMY-
WEIGHT1,260 KG (kerb, claimed)
PRICE

RM93,900

Excluding insurance


Or Try These…

web_TA_CariCarz_Review_Proton-S70-Flagship-X_-5.jpgCariCarz_Vios-2023-081.jpg
Proton S70 Flagship X - RM94,800Toyota Vios (AC100) 1.5G - RM95,500
The MG 5’s eternal rival in China, now bolder and better thanks to Proton’s extensive localisation efforts. While both models are on par in both the driving dynamics and practicality fronts, the S70 edges slightly in the performance department, thanks to its peppier three-pot turbocharged mill.What used to be the safest bet in this segment, the fourth-gen (AC100) Vios turns out to be a hoot, delivering perhaps the sportiest driving dynamics out of any other B-segment saloons. However, its sporty looks and near-bulletproof reliability are hampered by an underpowered engine and reduced practicality.




Gallery

Share This Article

Written By

Mukhlis Azman

An avid two-wheeler that writes and talks about four-wheelers for a living, while dreaming of an urban transit-laden Malaysia. @mukhlisazman

Share via

JPJ Running Numbers

KUALA LUMPUR

VPB6823

SELANGOR

BSE3819

JOHOR

JXW3362

PULAU PINANG

PRQ2639

PERAK

ANV2504

PAHANG

CFB6374

KEDAH

KGA3928

NEGERI SEMBILAN

NEF6675

KOTA KINABALU

SJK6701

KUCHING

QAB2775L

Last updated 30 Apr, 2025

Fuel Price

Petrol

RON 95

RM 2.05

RON 97

RM 3.18

RON 100

RM 5.00

VPR

RM 6.23

Diesel

EURO 5 B10

RM 2.88

EURO 5 B7

RM 3.08

Last updated 24 Apr, 2025

Related News

EV
Auto Shanghai 2025: MG Cyber X Concept SUV Debuts

Auto Shanghai 2025: MG Cyber X Concept SUV Debuts

Rugged, boxy MG Cyber X concept SUV bows during Auto Shanghai 2025, and it even sports pop-up headlights.

24-04-2025
EV
MG Teases New Cyber X SUV Ahead of Auto Shanghai Debut

MG Teases New Cyber X SUV Ahead of Auto Shanghai Debut

The all-new MG Cyber X will be the second model under the ‘Cyber’ lineup, set to debut at the Auto Shanghai 2025 motor show.

12-04-2025
EV
MG Teases Upcoming MGS5 EV Crossover

MG Teases Upcoming MGS5 EV Crossover

Chinese-owned MG marque teases new MGS5 EV crossover, shares same MSP platform as MG4 hatch but promises more ‘premium’ cabin.

04-03-2025
International
Report: SAIC Set To Establish MG Plant In Egypt

Report: SAIC Set To Establish MG Plant In Egypt

MG brand owners SAIC reportedly set to establish new production plant in Egypt where it will first produce next-gen MG5 saloon.

02-01-2025
Auto News
SAIC Motor Malaysia Named Emory QiFeng As MD

SAIC Motor Malaysia Named Emory QiFeng As MD

SAIC Motor Malaysia has named Mr. Emory QiFeng as the MD who will spearhead the company's and its MG brand's expansion into the Malaysian market.

02-10-2024
New Car
MG5 Fastback Set For Oct 3 Launch With RM100,000 Est. Price

MG5 Fastback Set For Oct 3 Launch With RM100,000 Est. Price

SAIC Motor Malaysia takes to social media to confirm launch date for MG5 fastback, promises RM100,000 estimate price too.

01-10-2024
EV
Previewed: MG Cyberster – Year-End Launch Hinted

Previewed: MG Cyberster – Year-End Launch Hinted

SAIC Motor Malaysia previews sleek MG Cyberster EV sportscar, year-end launch hinted.

23-08-2024
New Car
Previewed: MG HS And MG5 – Est. RM130,000 & RM100,000 Respectively

Previewed: MG HS And MG5 – Est. RM130,000 & RM100,000 Respectively

SAIC Motor Malaysia expands MG brand line-up by previewing new MG HS crossover and MG5 four-door fastback offerings.

22-08-2024

Latest News

Review
Tested: BYD M6 Standard Range – Back to Basics!

Tested: BYD M6 Standard Range – Back to Basics!

Despite its ‘basic’ specs, the BYD M6 Standard Range proved to be a sensible yet capable EV for you and your family.

07-04-2025
Review
Driven: Peugeot 408 GT – Fancy A Crossover With Le Différence?

Driven: Peugeot 408 GT – Fancy A Crossover With Le Différence?

As far as crossover SUV reinventions go, the Peugeot 408 GT is almost – ALMOST – a convincing proposition indeed!

28-03-2025
Review
6 Reasons Why The Toyota Corolla Is Still A Trust-Worthy Buy Today

6 Reasons Why The Toyota Corolla Is Still A Trust-Worthy Buy Today

The twelfth-gen Toyota Corolla sedan has everything you want in a car that you can trust and rely on. Here are SIX reasons why…

14-03-2025
Review
Tested: BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport – Charged Driving Pleasure!

Tested: BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport – Charged Driving Pleasure!

The BMW i5 eDrive40 M Sport manages to live up to the high expectations set up by its ICE-powered adversaries, and here’s why…

13-02-2025
Review
First Drive: 2025 Kia Sportage CKD — Yet Another Stellar Left-Fielder!

First Drive: 2025 Kia Sportage CKD — Yet Another Stellar Left-Fielder!

Here’s our first impression of Kia Malaysia’s latest C-segment SUV fighter, the 2025 Kia Sportage CKD…

08-02-2025
Review
Driven: MG 5 – A Proton S70 Killer?

Driven: MG 5 – A Proton S70 Killer?

The MG 5 has all the chops to make it a decent yet affordable saloon, but will you favour it over the mighty Proton S70?

29-01-2025
Review
Driven: Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic AMG Line

Driven: Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic AMG Line

Light refreshments help keep the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250 4Matic AMG Line as an ideal choice for anyone seeking a small, posh crossover.

26-01-2025
Review
First Drive: BYD Seal Performance AWD – BYD Malaysia’s Hottest EV Tested!

First Drive: BYD Seal Performance AWD – BYD Malaysia’s Hottest EV Tested!

The BYD Seal Performance AWD combines sheer EV performance with daily usability in a sporty and stylish package.

25-01-2025

Show More

trending_flat
Carz Automedia Malaysia Logo
About Us

CarzAutoMedia: Stay connected to the latest car news! Get instant updates on new releases, industry trends, and automotive innovations. Your go-to source for 24/7 coverage of everything automotive.

© 2024 CariCarz.com. All Rights Reserved.