MG IM5 (2025 - )

MG is enhancing its electric vehicle lineup by introducing a new sub-brand called 'IM', which stands for 'Intelligence in Motion'. The IM5 is designed to take on Tesla, especially the Model 3.

The car features a streamlined design, and it omits the traditional MG badge, showcasing a fresh emblem instead that reminds you of those used by gaming brands. 

There is a trio of MG IM5 models, and they're based on battery size and performance. The Standard Range comes with 291bhp, the Long Range generates 401bhp, and the Performance version, which has a dual-motor setup, brags 741bhp. 

As mentioned, battery sizes also differ, with the Standard Range accommodating a 75kWh battery, providing 304 miles of range. The Long Range version has a 100kWh battery, offering 441 miles. The Performance variant, unsurprisingly, prioritises oomph, delivering 357 miles from its 100kWh power bank and ladling out a 0-62mph time of 3.2 ticks.

The latter is the one we’re testing here. Is it any good? Let’s find out, writes motoring journalist Tim Barnes-Clay.

As mentioned earlier, we're at the wheel of the high-end 100 Performance variant – and we suspect you're keen to discover the 0-62mph acceleration time. It stands at a staggering 3.2 seconds - and the top speed is 166mph.

Fortunately, if your budget nudges you towards a more affordable model, you won't be left wanting. The Long-Range version enjoys a commendable 0-62mph time of 4.9 seconds, while even the entry-level Standard Range can achieve it in 6.8 seconds.
These performance figures suggest that the variant we're testing might be overkill for most drivers. Unless you're seeking supercar-like capabilities from an electric vehicle, having 'only' 291bhp at your disposal won't disappoint.
In the Performance edition, a robust 401bhp powers the rear wheels, with a further 340 horses directed to the front.
This configuration results in an astonishing surge of acceleration right from the start, so be prepared for your head to slam back into the headrest if you aren't already braced for it.
While a Tesla Model 3 Performance version will outpace it by a mere 0.3 seconds in the 0-62mph sprint, that's a marginal difference.
The IM5 does manage its power well, ensuring a smooth and effective transfer to the road, even in the most aggressive driving mode. This means you can comfortably floor the accelerator without excessive wheelspin.
The traction control system steps in as needed, although it didn't have to work particularly hard to keep us in line.
Handling-wise, the IM5 is competent. Steering responds well, and there's an abundance of grip through corners – the car feels stable and balanced. That said, it lacks a certain playfulness and doesn't quite deliver the agility you might anticipate.
However, it does hold its own against the handling prowess of the Tesla Model 3, which is similarly adept but a bit less dramatic.
When it comes to ride comfort, the IM5 does well. It smooths out uneven surfaces, and the ride quality is pretty pleasant for a performance-oriented setup. Nevertheless, it can feel jittery unless you're cruising over virgin tarmac.
As for wind and road noise, the car excels here, gliding along with an impressive hush that belies the considerable poke lurking beneath the metal.
The regenerative braking system is adequate, although with three modes available, none of them seems to offer a markedly different level of braking force.
 

Much like the BYD Seal, the MG IM5 seems to channel some Porsche inspiration in its design. Actually, it resembles a blend of Porsche and Tesla.
The front features triangular headlights tucked into the corners, with a sloped bonnet that showcases sculpted lines and a fair bit of blank bodywork. A pronounced carved cut runs around the front, giving it an athletic appearance.
The sides are sleek, interrupted only by a subtle indentation near the bottom of the doors, while the roofline has a notable slope.
From the back, it certainly boasts a rear end reminiscent - again - of Porsche, with a significant protrusion and a large light bar that spans from side to side. It drips sex appeal.
Tech-wise, a floating unit links the centre console and dashboard with a touchscreen that complements a 26.3-inch panoramic display behind the steering wheel. The 10.5-inch portrait touchscreen features sharp graphics but requires adjusting your neck to see the icons, which are too small. 
In contrast, the upper display is easier to navigate whilst driving, requiring less mental effort. That's a good thing, as just about everything is contained within the touchscreen - the climate control, the position of the mirrors, and even the direction the air vents are pointing. 
 

Finding a comfortable driving position in the IM5 is straightforward, thanks to the six-way electric seat adjustments at the front, complemented by adjustable lumbar support.

Forward visibility is reasonably good as the pillars are not overly thick. However, rear visibility is relatively poor due to the sloping roofline and the sharply angled rear window.

On the plus side, front and rear parking sensors, along with a 360-degree parking camera, come standard across the entire range, along with a one-touch park assist feature that simplifies tricky parking tasks.

Although the front seats have a snug feel, there’s ample legroom and headroom available.

In the rear, the space isn't quite as generous, but it remains acceptable. There is just enough headroom despite the pronounced slope of the roofline, and most passengers will find sufficient legroom – even three-up. However, the floor sits relatively high, causing knees to be elevated, and there isn't adequate under-thigh support, meaning taller passengers in the back may feel a bit cramped.

Boot space is competitive for the class, measuring 457 litres, expanding to 1,290 litres with the rear seats folded down. There is no underfloor storage, but a frunk offers an additional 18 litres of space.
 

The IM5 is among the quickest electric vehicles to charge globally, achieving a maximum DC charging speed of 392kW.
MG states that a recharge from 10% to 80% can be done in 26 minutes using a 350kW charger with the smaller 75kWh battery.
However, while the smaller battery operates on a 400V system, the larger 100kWh version employs an 800V architecture. This setup significantly reduces thermal load and enables prolonged high charging speeds. Consequently, the 100kWh battery can also reach the same 10-80% recharge level in a mere 17 minutes. 
By comparison, a 50kW charger would take about one and a half hours to achieve the same level of charge, while a 7kW home wallbox would take approximately 16 hours and 12 hours, respectively, for a full 10-100% charge.
Without carbon emissions to factor in, running costs for the IM5 should be pretty low – even with a larger battery, it’s likely to be more economical than a comparable petrol vehicle, particularly if charged at home.
However, road tax may not be as inexpensive as you might assume. Currently, electric vehicles incur a charge, starting with the first year's road tax at just £10; subsequent years will see it rise to £195 annually.
It's worth mentioning that the entry-level Standard Range model is priced just under £40,000, allowing it to bypass the Expensive Car Supplement. Nonetheless, other versions, including the 100 Performance tested here, do breach this limit, incurring an additional cost.
On a positive note, being a zero-emissions vehicle makes it an appealing option as a company car.
As for reliability, MG's reputation isn't stellar; however, it does offer peace of mind with a substantial warranty. The vehicle is backed for seven years, although this is limited to a maximum of 80,000 miles, whichever comes first.
 

The IM5 presents a desirable proposition – few motors, whether fossil-fuelled or electric, offer this power at such an affordable price.

Its aesthetic appeal is striking, the interior is appealing, and it’s brimming with technology. The list of features is impressively extensive, while also providing a reasonable amount of practicality for its class.

Performance-wise, it’s naughty - very naughty - particularly in the 100 Performance variant. It offers a balanced handling experience, rapid charging, and commendable range.

Overall, the MG IM5 provides sound value for money and gives the Tesla Model 3 a tough fight.