2026 MG S5 EV Range Revamped: More Power, More Range, Streamlined Line-up

News Journalist

Jul 18, 2026

Comments

73 Views

MG Motor Australia has officially updated its 2026 MG S5 EV line-up, delivering a significant performance and range boost to its flagship model while simultaneously discontinuing its entry-level variants for private buyers.

In a move shaped by clear consumer preferences, the electric small SUV's range has been trimmed down strictly to the high-specification Essence 49 and Essence 62 grades.

Flagship Upgrades: The Essence 62 Gets a Major Boost

The headline for the 2026 update is the substantial powertrain upgrade applied to the top-tier Essence 62. Inheriting the advanced rear electric motor from its MG 4 EV hatchback sibling, the Essence 62 now produces 150kW of power and 350Nm of torque (a significant jump from the outgoing 125kW/250Nm setup).

This power bump slashes the 0-100km/h sprint time down to a swift 7.0 seconds—an improvement of 1.6 seconds over the previous 62kWh model, effectively erasing the weight penalty of the larger lithium iron phosphate battery.

Despite the added performance, advanced motor efficiency means the WLTP driving range has actually increased. The Essence 62 is now rated at 450 kilometres per charge, a 25km improvement over its predecessor.

Trim Restructure and Pricing

The axing of the budget-focused 'Excite' grades means the entry price into the MG S5 EV range has effectively risen by $2,500. However, MG Australia noted that this decision was heavily data-driven; since the model's launch in early 2025, a massive 58% of buyers opted for the flagship Essence 62. (Note: The discontinued Excite models will remain available exclusively to large-business fleet buyers if demand permits).

Crucially, RRP pricing for the remaining Essence models remains completely frozen:

MG S5 EV Essence 49: $42,990 before on-road costs (Currently offered at $41,990 drive-away).
MG S5 EV Essence 62: $47,990 before on-road costs (Currently offered at $46,990 drive-away).

(Drive-away promotional pricing is valid nationwide until July 31, 2026, unless extended).

What Do You Get in the Essence Grade?

Stepping into the Essence grade guarantees a highly equipped cabin and a premium exterior finish. The Essence 49 (which retains the 125kW motor and 335km range) and the Essence 62 both feature:

Design & Comfort:

18-inch alloy wheels
A panoramic sunroof and a hands-free power tailgate with kick sensor
Synthetic leather-look upholstery (available in Black or an optional 'Grey Ivory' for an extra $500)
Heated front seats and a heated leather-wrapped steering wheel
A six-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support
Rear privacy glass, a fold-down rear-centre armrest, and heated power-folding side mirrors

Tech & Infotainment:

12.8-inch central infotainment touchscreen with satellite navigation
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster
Wireless smartphone charging alongside wireless and wired Apple CarPlay / Android Auto
A 360-degree high-definition camera
Voice control integration, a six-speaker sound system, and access to the MG iSmart app (first year free)

Safety (MG Pilot):

The standard safety suite remains comprehensive, featuring seven airbags, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind-Spot Monitoring, Lane Centring Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (with braking function), Speed Sign Recognition, and a Driver Monitoring System.

The updated 2026 MG S5 EV is currently on sale across Australian dealerships, available in six exterior colours. Dover White is standard, while premium shades like Black Pearl, Piccadilly Blue, Camden Grey, Champagne Gold, Sterling Silver, and Diamond Red attract a $700 premium.