2023 MG5 Trophy Estate BEV Review

When a car manufacturer releases a facelift, it's often hard to spot the changes without a side-by-side comparison. But that’s not the case with the 2023 MG5 Trophy Estate BEV. The updates to this model are so significant, both inside and out, that it feels like a completely new car. The only familiar aspect is the driving experience. However, in terms of aesthetics and material quality, this MG5 is worlds apart from its predecessor.

MG has clearly understood the market’s needs and delivered an estate car that genuinely impresses.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2023 MG5 now comes in just two trim levels: SE Long Range and Trophy Long Range. The SE Long Range offers a 250-mile range (WLTP) and starts at just under £31,000. The Trophy Long Range, slightly pricier at around £33,200, offers a 235-mile range (WLTP) but includes a lot more features. These include rear privacy glass, a 360-degree camera, heated front seats, and automatic wipers — features that aren’t standard on the SE Long Range. While £33,200 might not seem like a budget-friendly price for an MG, it offers far more than some of its competitors, like the Volkswagen ID.3, at the same price point.

Charging and Practicality

Charging isn’t the fastest with the MG5. However, it has a front-mounted charging socket, which makes it easier to access in tight public charging bays — a feature more cars should have. On a 100 kW charger, it will go from 10% to 80% in about 40 minutes. On a 50 kW charger, the same takes about an hour.

When it comes to practicality, the MG5 stands out. It offers 464 litres of boot space up to the parcel shelf, which is competitive with the ID.3 — especially considering the MG5 is an estate and the ID.3 is a hatchback. There is a bit of a load lip, about three inches, but I actually find this useful for preventing groceries from rolling out. With the rear seats down, the MG5 offers a massive 1,367 litres of space. However, if you plan on towing, note that it only has a capacity of 500 kg.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the new MG5, particularly in the Trophy model, feels much more premium than the previous version. It features leather or leather-effect seats with interesting textures, a big central armrest, and cup holders. The rear seat vents are oddly placed near the floor, but there are both USB-A and USB-C ports, as well as pockets in the back of the seats. Headroom is generous, and even at 6 feet tall, you'd be comfortable. The flat floor and ample legroom make the middle seat a viable option for adults on longer journeys.

The front of the cabin feels significantly upgraded compared to the previous model, which felt like a budget car. The new interior design is almost premium, with better material choices and a solid build quality. The center console is higher than before, and there's a non-slip storage area underneath, though it lacks wireless charging. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard but are only available in a wired format.

One downside is the lack of physical buttons for climate control, which can make adjustments a bit fiddly. It would have been better to have a simple rocker switch rather than relying on touch controls, which are often not very responsive. Despite this, the driver information display is clear and easy to read, even in bright sunlight.

Driving Experience

The 2023 MG5 Trophy Estate BEV has 156 PS of power and accelerates from 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds. It’s a smooth and comfortable ride, ideal for long journeys without causing fatigue. However, the steering feels vague and light, which might appeal to some but not to those who prefer more direct feedback. The car does have safety features such as emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, though the latter could use some software updates for better accuracy.

One of the standout features of the driving experience is the ability to use one-pedal driving in town, thanks to the regen braking system. The gear selector is a simple, functional rotary dial that feels solid and well-made. The steering wheel, however, could use an upgrade in material quality — it feels a bit rubbery, which detracts from the overall experience.

Verdict

Overall, the 2023 MG5 Trophy Estate BEV is a step up from its predecessor. While it still has a few minor gripes, such as the lack of a heat pump and a vague steering feel, the positives far outweigh the negatives. It’s practical, well-priced, and offers a significant improvement in interior quality. For anyone looking for a solid, old-school estate car with modern electric capabilities, the MG5 is a fantastic option.

And isn't it great to see someone still offering a good, practical family estate in 2023? MG has clearly understood the market’s needs and delivered an estate car that genuinely impresses.

To find out the latest lease prices for a MG5 Trophy Estate BEV, Click here.