MG Australia has confirmed to Australian media during the launch of the MG4 electric car that it has chosen to offer its new MG5 sedan without several safety features to keep costs down.
MG Australia’s product manager, Kevin Kou, told local media that MG wants to provide affordability to Australians first and foremost.
“It’s a well constructed car [the MG5]. However, you know, there are limitations on the amount of ADAS [fitted] because it all costs money. We need to provide affordability for Australians, and this is a deciding business factor that we’ve made,” he said.
The MG5 will be offered in Australia at $24,990 driveaway for the entry Vibe variant
The new MG5 enters with the Vibe at $24,990 and tops out with the Essence at $28,990, driveaway.
The new range currently comes fitted with the following safety features:
- Six airbags
- Autonomous emergency braking
- Rear parking sensors
It misses key features such as:
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keep assist
- Rear cross traffic alert
- Adaptive cruise control
- Driver monitoring system
The MG5 misses out on some key safety features found on the MG4
The MG5 is yet to be tested by Australia’s ANCAP safety body.
It’s worth noting that competitor Kia Cerato is offered in a S with Safety Pack grade, at $27,290 list – around $29,390 driveaway – that fits AEB, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping and lane following assist systems, and lead vehicle departure alert.
The new model’s electric MG4 stablemate has successfully gained a five-star ANCAP safety rating, which applies to all rear-wheel-drive variants.
Meanwhile, the MG4 has scored a five-star ANCAP safety rating
The MG4 scored 83 percent for adult occupant safety, 86 percent for child occupant protection, 75 percent for vulnerable road user protection and 81 percent for safety assist.
MG5 2023: prices in Australia
All prices listed are driveway.
- Vibe: $24,990
- Essence: $28,990
