MG 5 2024 Review

The C-class sedan market has always been the main battleground for family users and young commuters in recent years. These types of vehicles need to meet daily commuting economic requirements while also considering space and features for family outings. As a regular in the value-for-money segment, the arrival of the 2024 MG 5 clearly aims to fulfill these needs—it not only delivers significant upgrades in features compared to the older model but also maintains the brand's consistent affordability. This time we received the actual vehicle, and our main objective is to verify whether its static performance is practical enough and its dynamic driving sufficiently balanced to establish itself firmly among competitors in the same class.

The exterior design of the 2024 MG 5 follows a simple and sleek style, avoiding overly complex lines but ensuring decent recognition. The front features a large blacked-out grille, paired with sharp LED headlights on both sides, giving it a spirited appearance visually. The waistline extends from the front to the rear of the car, coupled with 17-inch multi-spoke wheels, making the side view look less bulky. The design of the rear is relatively conservative; however, the LED taillights employ a blacked-out finish, offering clear effects when lit, and the chrome trim on the rear bumper adds a touch of sophistication. Overall, this design balances the stability expected of a family car with a touch of sporty flair appreciated by young people.

Upon entering the interior, the layout immediately feels quite organized, with the dashboard slightly tilted towards the driver for easier operation. As for materials, the center control area and the inside of the door panels are wrapped in plenty of soft materials, providing a decent texture to the touch, though the plastic parts have a somewhat ordinary feel in finer details. Key features include a 10.25-inch central control screen that is large enough, offers clear display, runs smoothly, and supports Bluetooth, CarPlay, and Android Auto, which suffices for daily use. Although the 7-inch fully digital instrument cluster is not very large, it can display key information like RPM, speed, and fuel consumption with a simple and easy-to-read interface. The seats are a highlight, with the driver's seat offering 6-way electric adjustment and manual lumbar support, and the passenger seat also featuring electric adjustment. These features make it more convenient for users during long drives in terms of lumbar support and seating adjustment. The rear seats can be split-folded, and when folded down, they expand cargo space, making it easier to handle large luggage.

In terms of space performance, the 2024 MG 5 has a wheelbase of 2680mm, which falls within the standard range for C-class sedans. After adjusting the front seats to a suitable position, a passenger of 180cm still has about a fist's worth of headroom. The rear can also accommodate a 180cm passenger, leaving two fists of legroom and one fist of headroom, without feeling cramped. Storage space is designed to be practical; the central armrest box and door storage pockets in the front row are quite spacious, capable of holding phones, water bottles, and small items. Although the regular cargo volume of the trunk is not particularly large, its regular shape is a plus. When the rear seats are folded down, it can fit a stroller or suitcase, meeting the needs of a family’s short trips.

As for the powertrain, the 2024 MG 5 is equipped with a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine that delivers a maximum horsepower of 114PS and a maximum torque of 150N·m, paired with a CVT transmission. During daily driving, it accelerates briskly, with responsive low RPM performance, making it suitable for navigating urban traffic congestion. After reaching a speed of 60km/h, the power output becomes more gradual, and overtaking requires pressing the accelerator deeply as the transmission slowly increases RPM. The power reserves are not particularly abundant, but they are adequate for daily family commuting. There is only a standard driving mode, with no sport or eco modes available, which makes it somewhat limited.

The handling and chassis performance are decent, with the steering wheel being light and having accurate direction, making daily driving very easy. The suspension system uses a front MacPherson + rear torsion beam setup, tuned for comfort. When going over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension filters out most vibrations, so there isn't a pronounced feeling of bumps inside the cabin. When cornering, the body roll is well controlled, providing a stable ride without feeling floaty. The brake pedal feels linear, with moderate braking force, making it easy to control in daily driving.

In terms of fuel consumption, we tested 100 km each in urban traffic and on highways. Fuel consumption in urban conditions was about 7.5L/100km, while on highways it dropped to around 6L/100km. The combined fuel consumption is 6.8L/100km. This performance, for a 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, is considered average among its peers. It's not particularly fuel-efficient, but it also won't impose too much financial burden on fuel costs for users.

The comfort details are well handled. Noise from tires and wind is effectively controlled; the cabin is very quiet at low speeds, while at highway speeds up to 120km/h, wind noise slightly increases but doesn't interfere with normal conversation. The seat cushioning is relatively soft and offers good support, ensuring comfort even on long journeys. The rear row is equipped with independent air conditioning vents, catering to the comfort of rear passengers, which is a thoughtful touch.

In conclusion, the core advantages of the 2024 MG 5 lie in its features and space. Compared to the same-class Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, its electric seats, 360-degree panoramic camera, panoramic sunroof, and other features add value, while its pricing is more budget-friendly, highlighting its cost-effectiveness. However, its powertrain is a shortcoming, with the 1.5L naturally aspirated engine feeling somewhat sluggish during high-speed overtakes. It is more suitable for users who do not pursue aggressive driving.

Overall, the 2024 MG 5 is a balanced family sedan, ideal for families prioritizing features, space, and value for money, or for young users commuting daily who don't require high performance. If what you need is an easy-to-drive, practical, and well-equipped family car, then the MG 5 is worth considering.