The number “5” is especially significant for the MG brand as it alludes to one of the brand’s most popular and well-loved models: the MG 5 Sedan. To showcase its popular nameplate, MG Philippines hosted a drive dubbed “The Extraordinary 5 Drive with MG” where participants got behind the wheel and drove to Bataan to spend some quality time with the MG 5 while sampling some of the best that Central Luzon has to offer in terms of cuisine, local heritage, and beautiful sites.
“MG Philippines conceptualized this bespoke event for the motoring media to give them a firsthand experience of the numerous product wins of the MG 5 Sedan. From enjoying its comfortably spacious cabin on long drives to testing the car’s balanced and steady stance during spirited drives on winding hills and highways, the MG 5 is a true standout performer,” said Atty. Alberto B. Arcilla, president and CEO of MG Philippines.
Taking our cue from the MG 5’s “Big in Features, Big in Comfort” tagline, here are the 5 things we love about the MG 5.
1. SPACE
The subcompact segment is a popular category in the country because of its practicality. Not too big, and not too small, it has enough usable space for 5 people to travel comfortably. Legroom for the backseat passengers is always a bone of contention for “smaller” cars, and luckily, this wasn’t a problem with the MG 5. The MG 5 is the longest (4,601mm) and widest (1,788mm) option in its class and also features the longest wheelbase (2,680mm) resulting in a spacious and comfortable cabin, and 512 liters of luggage space in the boot.
2. CONVENIENCE FEATURES
Among the numerous features that the MG 5 has, our favorites have to be its large 10-inch head unit that displays, among others, a 360-degree of the vehicle. The infotainment system also has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, which simplified switching devices with every driver change.
The other nice-to-have feature is the sunroof that instantly makes long trips more bearable. It goes without saying that it also makes for better in-car photos.
3. DRIVABILITY
Whether negotiating the urban jungle or stretching its legs on the highway, the MG 5 certainly met our expectations. The drive – and ride – felt solid. Acceleration and braking were responsive. The sedan was just as easy to maneuver in traffic and in the twisties of Bataan. Standard across the variants, the MG 5 is powered by a capable 1.5 DOHC 16 Valve DVVT engine, paired with a CVT with manual mode or 5-speed manual transmission that is said to be quite the fuel miser under normal conditions (read: not under media drive conditions, harhar). Higher variants come with Push Button Start/Stop and Cruise Control that make the driver’s life a little bit easier.
4. SAFETY FEATURES
Safety is always top of mind of car buyers, and the selection on the MG 5 does not disappoint. Depending on the variant you choose, it comes with an array of safety features that will make you feel secure in your ride, as you should be. The MG 5 Alpha we drove came with ABS with EBD, Cornering Brake Control, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control (CBC), Auto Hold Brakes, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Driver, passenger, side, and curtain Airbags, 3-point seatbelt for the rear middle seat, as well as Child Locks and ISOFIX latches for younger passengers.
5. ATTRACTIVE PRICING
Regardless of which variant your budget permits, the MG 5 offers a comprehensive package that should suit your needs. The sub-one million price tag for the top-tier variant is a pretty good place to be for a good-looking set of wheels that you will certainly feel proud to own.
The MG 5 is available in Moon White, Meteorite Black, Carbon Gray, Extreme Speed Red, Morning Gold, and Laser Blue. Variants and pricing are as follows:
- MG 5 MT CORE – Php 658,888.00
- MG 5 CVT CORE – Php 718,888.00
- MG 5 CVT CORE PLUS – Php 738,888.00
- MG 5 CVT CORE STYLE – Php 848,888.00
- MG 5 CVT CORE ALPHA – Php 938,888.00
Click here for the spec sheet.
Haven’t experienced an MG yet? Visit www.mgmotor.com.ph/ to schedule a test drive. The MG 5, together with the rest of the vehicles in MG’s stable, is available for purchase via their online platform BuyAnMG.com.