The MG IM5 Performance is one of the clearest signs yet of how far MG has moved beyond its budget-focused roots.
With Porsche Taycan-inspired styling, 751PS, all-wheel drive and a premium-feeling interior, the IM5 Performance offers the sort of specification normally associated with much more expensive electric cars. Yet, with a price of £48,995, it sits much closer to the Tesla Model 3 than the Porsche Taycan.
For drivers looking for a fast, well-equipped and distinctive electric car, the MG IM5 Performance is an increasingly difficult option to ignore.
Striking styling with premium appeal
The first thing that stands out about the MG IM5 is its shape.
Its low nose, sweeping roofline, wide stance and smooth bodywork give it a strong resemblance to the Porsche Taycan, particularly when viewed from the side. It has genuine road presence and looks considerably more expensive than its price might suggest.
The Performance model adds 20-inch alloy wheels, flush door handles, frameless doors and slim LED lighting, helping it feel more like a premium executive EV than a traditional family car.
At 4,931mm long and 1,960mm wide, it is a large vehicle, but the streamlined design disguises much of its size.
Despite its saloon-like profile, the rear opens as a hatchback, making it easier to load than a conventional four-door saloon.
A significant step forward for MG
When MG first returned to the UK market, its cars were largely known for affordability and value. They often represented a sensible purchase, but some interiors and finishes felt noticeably built to a price.
The IM5 is a very different proposition.
The cabin feels well finished, spacious and considerably more premium than older MG models. Soft-touch materials, comfortable seats and a clean dashboard design help the car feel competitive with established executive EVs.
The front seats are electrically adjustable, heated and ventilated, while the outer rear seats are also heated. A heated steering wheel, panoramic glass roof and two-zone climate control are included as standard.
The driving position is comfortable and the cabin feels wide and airy, making the IM5 well suited to longer journeys as well as everyday driving.
Plenty of technology without unnecessary complexity
The dashboard is dominated by a large 26.3-inch panoramic display, supported by a separate 10.5-inch lower touchscreen.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are included, alongside a wireless phone charger and a 20-speaker sound system.
Although many of the car’s functions are controlled through the screens, the system is responsive and generally straightforward to use. There is a lot of technology available, but it does not feel as overwhelming as some touchscreen-heavy interiors.
That said, physical buttons for functions such as climate control and demisting would still make the car easier to operate while driving.
Clever parking and driver-assistance technology
One of the MG IM5’s standout features is its four-wheel steering.
At lower speeds, the rear wheels turn in the opposite direction to the front wheels, reducing the turning circle to just 9.98 metres. This makes a significant difference when manoeuvring a car of this size in tight car parks or narrow streets.
The IM5 also includes a Crab Mode, which allows the car to move diagonally during certain manoeuvres.
A 360-degree camera system provides a clear view around the vehicle, including a transparent chassis-style display that helps drivers see obstacles close to the wheels.
The One Touch parking assistance system can help with parking, reversing and pulling out of spaces, while Rainy Night Mode uses the exterior cameras to improve visibility in poor weather and low-light conditions.
Impressive performance
The MG IM5 Performance uses two electric motors and all-wheel drive, producing 553kW, equivalent to 751PS, and 802Nm of torque.
It accelerates from 0-62mph in just 3.2 seconds and has a top speed of 166mph.
That makes it one of the quickest new cars available for less than £50,000.
The acceleration is immediate and extremely strong, making overtaking effortless. Despite its performance, the car remains easy to drive at lower speeds, with smooth accelerator response and a refined feel around town.
The all-wheel-drive system provides plenty of grip, while the steering feels accurate and predictable.
At 2,298kg, the IM5 Performance is a heavy car, but it controls its weight well through corners. It feels composed and stable, with less body movement than might be expected from a vehicle of this size.
Ride comfort is also good, making it suitable for longer journeys as well as faster driving.
Range and charging
The IM5 Performance uses a 100kWh battery, of which 96.5kWh is usable.
MG quotes an official WLTP range of up to 357 miles, although real-world range is likely to be closer to 300 miles depending on temperature, speed, road conditions and driving style.
Official efficiency is rated at 3.1 miles per kWh.
Drivers who prioritise maximum range may prefer the rear-wheel-drive IM5 Long Range. It offers up to 441 miles of official range and still accelerates from 0-62mph in 4.9 seconds.
The Performance model’s strongest advantage is its charging speed.
Its 800-volt electrical system supports DC rapid charging at up to 396kW. MG says the battery can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in approximately 17 minutes when connected to a sufficiently powerful charger under suitable conditions.
An 11kW AC onboard charger is also included for home, workplace and destination charging.
Practicality
The MG IM5 has five seats and a 457-litre boot, increasing to 1,290 litres when the rear seats are folded.
There is also an 18-litre storage compartment beneath the bonnet.
The large hatchback opening makes the boot easier to access than a conventional saloon, while the 60:40 split-folding rear seats add flexibility.
Rear legroom is generous, thanks in part to the 2,950mm wheelbase, although taller passengers may find the raised rear floor limits under-thigh support.
The IM5 Performance can also tow up to 1,500kg with a braked trailer.
Who is the MG IM5 Performance best for?
The MG IM5 Performance is best suited to drivers who want premium styling, serious performance and a high level of standard equipment without paying Porsche Taycan prices.
It is also a strong option for company car drivers and business users looking for a distinctive electric executive car with rapid charging and a generous official range.
It may be less suitable for drivers who prioritise maximum efficiency, physical dashboard controls or a lighter, more traditional sports-car driving experience.
MG IM5 Performance verdict
The MG IM5 Performance demonstrates just how far MG has come.
It combines dramatic styling, a premium-feeling cabin, strong handling and exceptional performance with pricing that places it firmly against the Tesla Model 3.
It is not the most efficient electric car and some drivers may prefer more physical controls, but the overall package is difficult to overlook.
For less than £50,000, the IM5 Performance offers the presence, technology and performance of a much more expensive EV.
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