MG unveils high-tech IM5 sedan and IM6 SUV

MG, a brand recently known for budget-friendly electric vehicles, is making a big pivot into the premium market. At the Goodwood Festival of Speed, the company unveiled two new models under a new high-tech banner, the MG IM5 saloon and MG IM6 SUV, challenging established giants in the electric car space.

The IM Motors (Intelligence In Motion) brand, owned by MG's parent company, SAIC Motor, was initially meant to be a standalone offering but will now serve as the top tier of the MG lineup. The star of this new offensive is the MG IM5, a sleek executive sedan with the Tesla Model 3 squarely in its sights. The IM5 cuts a sharp, aerodynamic figure with a low front end and smooth body lines, clearly designed for maximum efficiency.

MG is not shy about its competitive intentions, particularly with pricing. The entry-level IM5 Standard, equipped with a 75 kWh battery, will start at $54,180 in the UK. This pricing undercuts the base Tesla Model 3. For more range, the IM5 Long Range model features a larger 100 kWh battery and is priced at $61,792. The top-tier, all-wheel-drive IM5 Long Range Performance variant will be available for $67,285, packing the most power.

The cars are built on an advanced 800-volt electrical architecture, a feature typically found in much more expensive electric cars. This allows for exceptionally fast charging, with MG claiming a 10 to 80 percent charge can be achieved in just 17 minutes.

The flagship IM5 Performance, powered by a dual-motor "Hurricane" setup, is capable of going from 0 to 62 mph in just 3.2 seconds. The Long Range model, with its 100 kWh battery, targets a maximum range of up to 407 miles, aiming to soothe any range anxiety.

The "Intelligence in Motion" tagline is backed by a cabin loaded with technology and premium features. The dashboard is dominated by a massive, ultra-high-definition 26.3-inch display, supplemented by a 10.5-inch touchscreen on the center console for primary controls.

To enhance comfort and create a serene driving environment, all models come standard with a panoramic roof and double-layer laminated windows. The audio experience is handled by a bespoke 20-speaker system that even includes four speakers mounted in the ceiling for immersive sound.

Driver aids include a "Rainy Night Mode" and a clever One Touch Park Assist that uses the car's 360-degree cameras to handle difficult parking maneuvers autonomously. Adding to its city-driving credentials, the IM5 has rear-wheel steering, which dramatically tightens its turning circle to just 32.74 ft.

Joining the sedan is the larger MG IM6, an SUV that shares the same technology, design language, and premium aspirations. It offers a more spacious alternative for families or those who prefer a higher driving position.

The IM6 will launch in the UK with a 100 kWh battery, starting at $65,912 for the Long Range version. A higher-spec Performance model will be offered for $70,031, and an exclusive Launch Edition will top the range at $72,778.

MG couldn't make it any more clear that it no longer wants to be seen as just a value brand. Those two EVs alone are enough for the company to be seen as a serious contender in the world of high-performance, technology-rich electric cars. Rather than spending years on development, MG took a shortcut and pinched an entire brand from its SAIC parent conglomerate, saving itself a lot of hassle in the process and jumping over its competitors.

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