The MG S5 EV has been updated with a more powerful electric motor and greater driving range in its flagship Essence 62 variant, while a streamlined lineup aims to strengthen the small electric SUV’s fight against the BYD Atto 3, Geely EX5 and Hyundai Kona Electric.
The model year 2026 (MY26) MG S5 EV range has been reduced from four variants to two, with the entry-level Excite 49 and Excite 62 grades dropped from the lineup.
The two better-equipped Essence variants are now the sole offerings, which MG Motor Australia said account for around 80 per cent of MG S5 EV sales.
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The Essence 49 is now the entry point and remains priced at $42,990 drive-away.
It continues to use a 125kW/250Nm rear-mounted electric motor and has a claimed WLTP driving range of 335km from its 49kWh lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery, from which it takes its name.
The biggest changes have been made to the Essence 62, which also takes its name from its 62kWh LFP battery and remains priced at $47,990 drive-away, sitting below the new, mid-size MG S6 EV Essence at $49,990 drive-away.
It now features a more powerful 150kW/350Nm electric motor, increases of 25kW and 100Nm respectively, cutting its claimed 0-100km/h acceleration time from 8.6 seconds to 7.0 seconds.
The changes also increase its claimed WLTP driving range by 25km to 450km on a single charge.
“Driving range continues to be a key consideration for Australian customers, and every improvement helps build confidence that an EV can meet the demands of everyday life, whether that’s the daily commute or longer trips away,” MG Motor Australia marketing manager Dimitri Andreatidis said in a statement.
“That customer feedback and buying behaviour has helped shape these latest updates. The updated Essence 62 delivers more power and greater driving range while remaining at the same price, and we’ve simplified the line-up to better reflect what Australian customers are choosing.”
Standard equipment on both the Essence 49 and Essence 62 includes 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.8-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 360-degree camera.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and a power tailgate with a kick sensor are also standard.
The MG S5 EV was launched in Australia in April 2025 as the replacement for the ZS EV. It was the brand’s second best-selling electric vehicle behind the MG 4 hatchback during the first half of 2026.
Pricing
Model | Drive-away price |
|---|---|
2026 MG S5 EV Essence 49 | $42,990 |
2026 MG S5 EV Essence 62 | $47,990 |
MG is offering a $1000 discount on both S5 EV variants between now and July 31, 2026, bringing their prices down to $41,990 and $46,990 drive-away, respectively.