MG confirms 2023 MG5 sedan for Australia, but rules out new EVs

MG has confirmed it will be adding MG5 sedan to its Australian line-up, however, it now isn’t expected to arrive until the beginning of 2023.

Not to be confused with the MG5 EV wagon built primarily for the UK market, the Thai-built MG5 coupe sedan is about the size of a Honda Civic, of which it bears quite a resemblance.

It’s powered by a choice of two 1.5-litre engines developed by MG’s parent company SAIC, including an 89kW naturally aspirated version and a punchier 129kW turbo.

5

Transmissions include a 5-speed manual and seven-speed dual-clutch auto.

MG Australia is yet to confirm which powertrains will be available in Australia.

Equipment wise, expect it to be similar to the MG ZST small SUV, which features MG’s ‘Pilot’ active safety suite, a digital gauge cluster, multimedia touchscreen, leather-appointed trim.

5

The MG5 was expected to arrive here in 2022, but while Australia-bound examples will commence production late next year, an MG spokesman told Wheels it is unlikely they will go on sale before 2023.

There is better news for anyone hanging out for the facelifted MG ZS EV, with MG Australia CEO Peter Ciao reconfirming it will arrive before May 2022.

5

Sporting a prominent grille-less fascia with new LED headlights and daytime-running light signature, the 2022 MG ZS EV will bring an upgraded powertrain with the 44kWh battery pack replaced with a 72kWh unit – capable of a claimed 440 kilometres on the WLTP test cycle.

As for all-new EV models, Ciao revealed Australia is likely to receive the next-generation Marvel R SUV, which will be based on the R Auto ES33 Concept and due in 2023.

5

However, the handy MG5 EV wagon, which was primarily designed for the UK market, has been ruled out for Down Under.