MG S5 To Get Power Boost

The MG S5 is set to get a power boost following recent ADR regulatory approvals. The newly approved 151kW motor variant represents a 21% power increase over the standard 125kW version found in the base Essence model. Both motors drive the rear wheels only, marking a shift from the front-wheel drive layout of the outgoing ZS EV.

The standard 125kW motor produces 250Nm of torque and enables 0-100km/h acceleration in around 8 seconds. The upgraded 151kW variant is expected to deliver improved performance, with acceleration times likely dropping into the mid-7 second range, though official figures have not been released.

This higher-output motor option aligns the S5 more closely with competitors like the BYD Atto 3, which offers up to 150kW in its Extended Range variant. The rear-wheel drive configuration also promises better weight distribution and more engaging handling characteristics compared to the front-drive ZS EV.

MG's decision to offer multiple motor outputs follows a strategy successfully employed with the MG 4 hatch, which is available in standard and XPower variants. The 151kW S5 could fill a performance-oriented niche without requiring the development of a full XPower variant.

ADR Approval Details

Originally reported by EV enthusiast Will Knott, the Australian Government approval documents show MG has received design certification for multiple S5 variants. The original approval covered the 125kW motor with three battery options across COM and LUX trim levels.

The new 151kW motor listing expands the approved variant lineup, bringing the total number of potential S5 configurations to at least eight when accounting for battery and trim combinations. It's expected MG will rebrand these COM and LUX designations to match the Excite and Essence naming used across its Australian range.

The S5 is based on the same Modular Scalable Platform that underpins the MG 4 electric hatch and Cyberster roadster. This dedicated EV architecture allows for the flexible motor configurations now approved for Australian sale.

Camouflaged S5 prototypes have been spotted testing on Australian roads in recent months, suggesting local validation testing is well underway. The ADR approval process typically takes several months, indicating MG has been preparing the S5 for the Australian market for some time.

Battery and Range Options

The S5 is currently available with two battery pack options. Both which use the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry at 49kWh and 62kWh capacities. A third 64kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery is also approved but not currently for sale.

One of the S5's key innovations is its ultra-thin battery pack, developed jointly by CATL and SAIC. At just 110mm thick, it's claimed to be the world's thinnest EV battery pack. This space-efficient design translates to improved cabin space, particularly rear legroom.

In China, MG claims driving ranges of 425km for 49kWh versions and up to 525km for 62kWh versions on the CLTC test cycle. These figures are likely optimistic compared to real-world Australian conditions. UK market cars with the 49kWh battery achieve 340km under the more stringent WLTP testing protocol.

The 151kW motor variant is expected to pair with the larger battery options, though MG has not confirmed which specific combinations will reach Australian showrooms. The 64kWh NMC battery is the most likely candidate for the higher-output motor.

DC fast charging is rated at up to 120kW with the 49kWh battery and 150kW with the 62kWh pack. MG claims 30-80% charging times of under 20 minutes for both configurations. AC charging is limited to 6.6kW across the range.

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Interior and Technology

The S5 brings significant technology upgrades over the outgoing ZS EV. A 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen replaces the smaller 10.25-inch unit found in current MG models sold in Australia. The system features a faster processor for improved responsiveness.

The interior features a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster that can be customized to display driver-preferred information. Leather upholstery comes standard, with both heated and ventilated front seats available depending on trim level.

Pricing and Availability

Pricing is not known for the variant with the upgraded motor, but there is a good chance there will be no price increase. The existing MG S5 range starts from $40,490 to $47,990 drive-away.