2024 MG5 Essence Review Roundup – All Australian Reviews in One

The 2024 MG5 Essence offers a budget-friendly option in the small sedan segment with a punchy turbo engine and competitive pricing. While it impresses with its value proposition, it falls short in crucial areas, particularly safety.

This score reflects the aggregated ratings from Chasing Cars (5.5/10) and WhichCar (7.9/10). The Drive review did not provide a numerical rating.

Quick Facts

• Price: $29,990 drive-away
• ANCAP Safety Rating: Zero stars (controversial rating)
• Fuel Efficiency (Claimed): 5.9L/100km
• Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol

Key Specifications

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Competitive pricing
• Punchy turbocharged engine
• Spacious interior, especially rear seat
• Attractive exterior design
• 7-year unlimited-kilometre warranty

Cons:

• Zero-star ANCAP safety rating
• Limited active safety features
• Unrefined dual-clutch transmission
• Some cheap interior materials
• High real-world fuel consumption

Expert Review Summaries

Chasing Cars

Rating: 5.5/10

• Pros:
  • Punchy turbo engine
  • Spacious interior
  • Competitive pricing
• Cons:

• Poor safety rating
• Unrefined transmission
• Limited safety features

Summary: "The MG5 Essence is actually okay to drive, with a good amount of usable torque and decent ride quality in most conditions. The interior is pretty good too, with heaps of space in the back. But this continues to be a car trading heavily on price to the sacrifice of areas of the ownership experience." Read the full review

WhichCar

Rating: 7.9/10

• A full review was not available from the provided link, but the higher rating suggests a more positive assessment than Chasing Cars.

Drive (Owner Review)

Rating: Not provided

While not a professional review, the owner's perspective can offer valuable insights into real-world ownership experience. Read the owner review

CarExplore's Take on the 2024 MG5 Essence

The 2024 MG5 Essence presents a mixed bag in the small sedan segment. Its primary appeal lies in its competitive pricing and punchy turbocharged engine, offering a new car option for buyers on a tight budget.

The exterior design is generally praised, with some reviewers noting similarities to more premium brands. Inside, the MG5 impresses with its spacious cabin, particularly the rear seat area, which could be a strong selling point for families or those who frequently transport passengers.

However, the MG5 Essence faces significant challenges, the most notable being its controversial zero-star ANCAP safety rating. This, combined with the limited active safety features, is a major concern in today's safety-conscious market.

The dual-clutch transmission also receives criticism for its lack of refinement, potentially impacting the overall driving experience.Interior quality is a mixed bag, with some nice touches like the 10.0-inch infotainment screen, but also areas where cost-cutting is evident through the use of hard plastics and some ergonomic issues.

Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize space and features over the latest safety technology, and who are comfortable with a newer brand in the Australian market.

Consider Alternatives If: Safety is a top priority, you prefer more refined driving dynamics, or you're looking for better long-term value retention.

Frequently Asked Questions