► MG goes for Tesla with its new flagship EVs
► Big driving range of up to 442 miles
► And a truly ridiculous 766bhp in top-spec versions
MG is going for the Tesla with the reveal of its new IM5 and IM6 at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, an EV saloon and electric SUV aiming to open MG up to a wider audience.
The brand has earned a great reputation for its value for money in recent years, with models such as the HS crossover and MG4 EV in particular growing its sales. In 2024 MG became the 10th most popular car brand in the UK, overtaking Vauxhall and Skoda despite a smaller line-up of vehicles.
But MG is now looking for a more premium slice of the pie with the reveal of the IM5 and IM6, larger, more advanced and more expensive electric cars that have the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y firmly in their sights.
What are the MG IM5 and IM6?
Over in China IM Motors is a standalone brand under SAIC Motor, MG’s parent company, with IM standing for ‘intelligent in motion’. But given MG’s already strong presence in the UK, it’s been decided to launch them under the existing branding.
The two cars are already on sale in countries such as China and Australia but are now arriving into Europe for the first time. Both the IM5 and IM6 are considerably larger and more premium cars than what we’re typically used to from MG, each measuring more than 4.9m in length. Although they’ll rival Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y, they’ll be closer in size to the Model S and Model X.
David Allison, head of product and planning for MG in the UK, said: “MG has made EV ownership accessible, exciting and different with the MG Cyberster convertible leading the way for the brand. But now, we’re seeking to deliver technology leadership and innovation with MG IM, engaging with customers aspiring for the future, today.”
What are the specs?
We’re still waiting for MG to detail the full specs, but the IM5 is available with a choice of 75kWh and 100kWh batteries, with the IM6 only getting the larger of the two.
The IM5 75kWh sits on a 400V charging structure, offering far lower charging speeds than the 800V network that underpins models fitted with the 100kWh battery. With the latter, MG is promising a 10 to 80 per cent charge in just 17 minutes, and a maximum DC charging speed of 396kW. Single-motor, rear-wheel-drive models and four-wheel-drive dual-motor will be available on both cars.
Providing the cars mirror the line-up available in Australia, which we expect them to, the rear-wheel-drive versions will develop 402bhp and accelerate from 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds in the IM5 and 5.4 seconds with the IM6.
At the top of the line-up will also sit Performance versions, producing a truly ridiculous 766bhp, and making Teslas look a bit old hat. The IM5 can sprint to 62mph in 3.2 seconds and the IM6 in 3.4. Yes, we’re also questioning why on earth they need that level of power.
More positive, however, is the maximum claimed range, with MG saying the IM5 can travel up to 442 miles on a charge, making it one of the longest-range electric cars on sale.
What else do I need to know?
The technology on these new EVs represents a significant step up compared to what we’ve seen on MG’s so far, Cyberster aside. Fully autonomous park assist is a first, as is rear-wheel steering, a feature usually reserved for luxury cars. On the IM5, it means a turning circle of just 9.98m – a metre less than that of a Volkswagen Golf.
Inside, a panoramic 26.3-inch display is spread out across the interior, with a panoramic glass roof fitted as standard, as is a 20-speaker sound system. A separate lower touchscreen is also present, and can be used to control features such as ventilation. MG also promises ‘exemplary cabin refinement’ from their double-layered laminated windows throughout.
What do the MG IM5 and IM6 cost?
Prices for the MG IM5 kick off from £39,450 for the 75kWh model, £44,995 for the Long Range 100kWh model and £48,495 for the Performance version.
As for the IM6 SUV, as it’s only offered with the 100kWh battery, prices start from £47,995 for the rear-driven model and £50,995 for the Performance. MG is also offering a Launch Edition, which gets features including air suspension, for £52,995.
Orders are expected to open imminently, with first deliveries expected later in the year.