Chinese carmaker MG is officially stepping into premium territory with the upcoming launch of two new all-electric models: the MG IM5 sedan and MG IM6 SUV. MG Motor Australia CEO Peter Ciao said the new IM models highlight the prominence the local market plays in the Chinese brand’s future.
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Both vehicles will sit under MG’s new IM sub-brand and offer a mix of sharp styling, long range, high performance, and some head-turning tech. Here’s what we know so far:
MG’s premium proposition
To be priced from just under $100,000, the IM models mark MG’s transition from value-focused mass-market player to a genuine luxury contender. The IM brand is set to target the heart of the luxury EV market, going toe-to-toe with the likes of the Mercedes EQE, BMW i5, Cadillac Lyriq and Genesis Electrified G80.
The company’s national CEO, Peter Ciao, has gone so far as to predict MG will become a top-five selling brand in Australia by 2027, with these IM models playing a crucial role in that ascent.
Two distinct body styles for different needs
Buyers can choose between two premium electric vehicles, both showcasing MG’s evolving design language and sold through existing dealerships with dual IM and MG Motor badging:
| Model | IM5 | IM6 |
| Body style | Sedan | SUV |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 4,931mm x 1,960mm x 1,474mm | 4,904mm x 1,988mm x 1,669mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,950mm | 2,950mm |
| Boot space | 457 L (1,290 L with seats folded) | 665 L (1,640 L expanded) |
| Seating | 5 | Up to 7 seats (in higher grades) |
Built on a dedicated EV platform
The MG IM5 and IM6 are not just revamped versions of previous MG models. They’re built on a specially designed electric platform with the latest EV capabilities that maximise range, interior space, and performance.
More range, faster charging
The new IM5 sedan will be offered exclusively in well-equipped Platinum trim, with buyers a choice between rear- or all-wheel-drive configurations.
| IM5 Variant | Battery capacity | Range (NEDC) |
| RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 100 kWh | 755 km |
| AWD (All-Wheel Drive) | 100 kWh | 625 km |
For the IM6 SUV, MG provides more flexibility with three distinct configurations:
| IM6 Variant | Drive type | Battery capacity | Range (NEDC) |
| Base Model | Rear-Wheel Drive | 75 kWh | 505 km |
| Platinum RWD | Rear-Wheel Drive | 100 kWh | 670 km |
| Platinum AWD | All-Wheel Drive | 100 kWh (Dual Motor) | 600 km |
Notably, the larger 100kWh battery versions of the IM6 can be optioned with seven seats, adding practical family appeal to the premium package.
The range figures, while impressive, come with the caveat that they are achieved under the optimistic NEDC testing cycle, rather than the more realistic WLTP standard used by most European manufacturers. Real-world range is expected to be approximately 15-20% lower depending on driving conditions.
All variants benefit from MG’s latest battery technology, with the 100kWh models capable of charging from 30-80% in just 15.2 minutes when connected to a capable DC fast charger.
Serious performance credentials
Both models offer solid performance, but the AWD variants really turn up the heat with dual motors and explosive acceleration. Here’s how the numbers shape up:
| Variant | Drive type | Motor Power (kW) | Torque (Nm) | 0–100 km/h Time |
| IM6 Base | RWD | 217 kW | 450 Nm | 6.4 sec |
| IM5 Platinum | RWD | 300 kW | 500 Nm | 4.6 sec |
| IM6 Platinum | RWD | 300 kW | 500 Nm | 5.4 sec |
| IM5 AWD | AWD | 200 kW (Front motor) + 372 Kw (Rear motor) = 572 kW | ~802* Nm | 2.74 sec |
| IM6 AWD | AWD | 200 kW (Front motor) + 372 kW (Rear motor) = 572 kW | ~802* Nm | 3.48 sec |
~Torque is estimated from combined motor outputs. Official AWD figures may vary slightly.
‘Crab mode’ makes the car ‘crab walk’
The IM5 and IM6 introduce a sophisticated four-wheel steering system with ‘Crab Mode’ capability – a feature more commonly associated with premium off-roaders like the GMC Hummer EV. This advanced system synchronises all four wheels to turn in unison at low speeds, enabling true diagonal movement that enhances:
- Tight-space maneuverability
- Parking ease
- Low-speed agility
While traditionally seen in rugged 4×4 vehicles, MG has adapted this technology for urban utility, giving their luxury EV a unique party trick that combines practical functionality with engineering prestige.
Rivals and expected launch timeline
The IM5 and IM6 will compete directly with established luxury EVs when they hit Australian showrooms in mid-2025 with a price tag of around $100,000:
- IM5 Sedan rivals: Mercedes-Benz EQE, BMW i5, Genesis Electrified G80
- IM6 SUV competitors: Mercedes EQE SUV, BMW iX, Cadillac Lyriq
Giles Belcher, Chief Operating Officer of MG Australia, told WhichCar? that pricing for the IM5 and IM6 is yet to be finalised, but confirmed that both the sedan and SUV will launch simultaneously. As the legend goes, these EVs are expected to deliver strong value for money.
While final pricing is expected to be announced closer to launch, MG Motor Australia CEO Peter Ciao told Drive that Australia holds strategic importance for the brand. In fact, it will be the first market outside China to receive the IM models, and the second globally.
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