The new MG RX5 compact SUV is now officially on sale across the Middle East, heralding the latest exciting chapter in the rejuvenation of the famous British brand. Customers can choose MG Motor’s new “hero SUV” from a collection of four well-equipped models, and two available powertrains, with prices starting at around $14,200 depending on the market.
The new MG RX5 will appeal to a range of customers across the region, especially younger buyers looking for value for money in a stylish, technologically-advanced package that allows them to stand out from the crowd. Equipped with a 1.5T petrol engine and seven-speed automatic gearbox, the MG RX5 is available as entry level STD or mid-range COM models. The more powerful 2.0T engine is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox and is offered in either the COM or top-of-the-range LUX models, with the latter featuring all-wheel drive.
Tom Lee, managing director of SAIC Motor Middle East, the parent company of MG Motor, said that embodying the positive, new direction that MG is taking, the new MG RX5 is the latest model to join their exciting range of stylish, hi-tech vehicles. “As MG builds momentum across the Middle East, boosted by the appointment of new dealers in markets such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, we are confident that this new compact SUV will prove extremely popular among the region’s car buyers,” he added.
The MG RX5 showcases an attractive, futuristic design that is instantly recognisable, notably at the front where the stylish square LED headlamps, imposing wing-shaped grille, and innovative foglamps endow it with real on-the-road presence. Sporty five-spoke, two-tone 18-inch rims on the COM and LUX models combine with a sharp waistline that rises from front to rear to enhance the dynamic look. At the rear, a chrome plate stretches out to the dual tail lights, visually extending the vehicle width—reminiscent of the style of certain premium German models.
Inside the cabin, careful attention has been paid to delivering an extremely high quality finish, with the use of high grade material, chrome edging, and soft-touch material covering 80% of the surfaces. A supersize, opening panoramic sunroof floods the interior with light, accentuating the best-in-class space that it offers. Helped by the 2,700-millimetre wheelbase, and total length of 4,545 millimetres, rear leg space (982 millimetres) and head space (987 millimetres) are significantly better than in rival cars.
MG’s new compact SUV delivers practicality and convenience. The flexible rear space incorporates adjustable, fold-flat seats with split/fold function, while there are multiple storage spaces throughout the cabin for bottles, mobiles, and cups, in addition to a large boot area. Useful technology offered as standard on most models includes remote, one-touch opening of the rear hatch, keyless entry, a start button and an auto hold function.
A clever remote smart application will allow the driver to operate vehicle functions such as remote start and stop air conditioning, vehicle tracking, and aftersales appointments. It even reminds owners of the services needed for the car. And for a hi-tech generation, there is a 10.4-inch high-definition infotainment touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Navigation on the COM and LUX versions and an eight-inch colour navigation system for STD models.
Power is derived from a choice of two turbocharged engines. Both 2.0T and 1.5T units, which are mated to six- and seven-speed transmissions respectively, provide impressive performance and efficiency. Delivering maximum power of 221 horsepower and torque of 350 Nm, the 2.0T engine can accelerate the MG RX5 from 0-100kilometres per hour in 8.2 seconds, while the efficient 1.5T engine returns top figures of 169 horsepower and 250 Nm. A smart all-wheel drive system with new generation electromagnetic torque management guarantees impressive off-road performance for LUX models.
Great performance is not compromised when it comes to safety, with the MG RX5 offering a wide range of passive and active safety measures. The efficient braking system reduces stopping distances by two metres in comparison to key rivals, while standard ESP with traction control, a curving braking control system, and MSR (motor control slide retainer) all contribute to a safer journey. Passive safety features include a strengthened body structure that uses thermal formed steel, multiple airbags, automatic unlocking in the event of a collision, and a collapsible steering column. All of this has helped the MG RX5 earn a five-star rating in the C-NCAP crash tests.
The entry level 1.5T STD exemplifies the comprehensive equipment levels of the MG line-up. Owners benefit from automatic air conditioning, front and rear electric windows, cruise control, multi-adjustable front seats, and a remote trunk opening function as standard functions. When it comes to safety, ABS, EBD, auto hold, a tyre pressure monitoring system, and hill descent control are just some of the standard features to equip the high0value 1.5T STD model.
The MG RX5 COM specification comes with either a 1.5T or 2.0T engine. All COM models add front foglamps, a rear parking camera and audible warning system, leather steering wheel, and luggage curtain to the list of features offered on the STD model. In addition, an eight-inch colour touch screen and Apple CarPlay are also standard.
Drivers of the top-of-the-range 2.0T LUX model are positively spoiled, with electric folding wing mirrors, LED headlamps, electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, additional airbags, an auto-dimming rear view mirror, and a huge panoramic sunroof with anti-trap mechanism all standard, as is MG’s smart all-wheel drive system.
