The MG brand originated in Oxford, England where Morris Garages used to customise Morris cars. In Europe MG cars are probably most attractive for female drivers, but some time back I saw a quote from one of the new Chinese owners saying they wanted MG to stand for ‘Modern Gentleman’ in China.

The Frank Keane Motor Group, who brought BMW and Mitsubishi to Ireland, was recently appointed distributer for MG in Ireland. They were quick to confirm that they have a fully electric versions of the MG5 EV Sportwagon, an exciting addition to their recently launched MG ZS EV and the MG HS PHEV.

The all new MG5 EV is a unique offering in the electric vehicle market, offering the flexibility and practicality of a generously spacious estate car with great driving dynamics.

The car is powered by a 115kW electric motor, equivalent to 156PS, giving acceleration of 0-100km/h in under eight seconds, with a 52.5kWh Lithium-ion battery pack that can be charged from zero to 80% in just 50 minutes using a rapid charger.

MG5 EV has a WLTP approved combined range of 345km in normal day-to-day use. This rises to 445km if the car is used solely for urban driving. Prices start from €27,645 with two trim levels available, Excite and Exclusive, both equipped to round off the package for this size of electric car and eye catching price.

MG5 EV’s lively motor sends power to the front wheels, which gives the car sound handling characteristics with an assured feel thanks to its low centre of gravity. The battery pack, meanwhile, is cleverly mounted beneath the floor of the car, maximising interior space for both passengers and luggage.

With the rear seats up and load cover in place there are 464 litres of boot space, or with the load cover retracted that extends to 578 litres with the rear seats still in place. Drop the 60:40 folding seat back and the load capacity increases to 1,456 litres.

Gerard Rice, Managing Director of MG Motor Ireland, said: “Building on the recent successful launches of the ZS EV and HS PHEV, the MG5 EV completes the package to essentially offer electric for all drivers in Ireland.

“The MG5 EV will appeal to both families and business users alike, with plenty of flexibility for loading the passengers and cargo combined with an impressive electric driving range. MG was the fastest growing mainstream car brand in the UK in 2020 and is growing rapidly across Europe.”

Like all MG models, the new MG5 EV comes with a seven-year or 150,000km fully transferable warranty as standard. MG Motor Ireland have partnered with Irish energy provider Energia to help customers start their electric journey and go 100% green with a free home charge point and 20% discount on green electricity. You will need to order before March 31 to avail of low 2.9% APR PCP finance with zero deposit.

Tracing its history back to 1924, MG is a motoring icon, famous for building sporty, exciting and value-for-money cars which are always fun to drive. From the original MG 14/28 Super Sports car, designed by the legendary Cecil Kimber, to the all-electric MGs of today, MG has always been innovative, radical and fun to drive.