How Does MG’s New IM 5 and IM 6 Stack Up Against Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y?
MG is making a bold move in the UK electric vehicle market, taking direct aim at Tesla’s dominance with the launch of its new IM 5 saloon and IM 6 SUV. These aren’t just incremental upgrades—they’re all-new models under the IM (Intelligence in Motion) brand, which MG’s parent company SAIC developed in partnership with Alibaba and Zhangjiang Hi-Tech. The IM brand has already made waves in China since its 2022 debut, and now, it’s gearing up to challenge the likes of the Model 3 and Model Y on British roads.
What’s the Real-World Range and Charging Speed Like?
Range anxiety is still a top concern for many EV buyers, and MG seems to have listened. The IM 5 boasts an official range of up to 442 miles on a single charge, thanks to a hefty 100kWh lithium-ion battery. That’s not just competitive—it’s pushing the boundaries of what’s currently available in this price bracket. For context, the latest Tesla Model 3 Long Range offers up to 390 miles (WLTP), so MG’s claim is certainly eye-catching.
But it’s not just about how far you can go; it’s also about how fast you can get moving again. The IM 5’s 800V charging architecture allows a 10-80% top-up in just 17 minutes, provided you can find a charger that keeps up. While the UK’s public charging infrastructure is still catching up—most rapid chargers currently max out below the 396kW the IM platform supports—the car is clearly future-proofed for the next wave of ultra-rapid charging stations.
Is There a Catch With Battery Options and Pricing?
MG is playing it smart with its pricing strategy. The IM 5 will start at £39,450 for the version with a 75kWh battery, offering around 330 miles of range. This price point is significant because it sneaks in just under the £40,000 threshold for the UK’s Expensive Car Supplement, potentially saving buyers hundreds of pounds in annual tax. The larger 100kWh battery bumps the price to £44,995, while the high-performance variant tops out at £48,495.
The IM 6, which shares the same platform and tech as the IM 5 but comes in an SUV body style, starts at £47,995 for the Long Range version and £50,995 for the Performance model. Unlike the IM 5, there’s no smaller battery option for the IM 6, so buyers looking for a lower entry price will need to stick with the saloon.
How Do Performance and Tech Features Compare to the Competition?
MG isn’t just chasing range and price—they’re also going after performance enthusiasts. The headline-grabbing figure here is the 767bhp output from the new ‘Hurricane’ twin-motor powertrain, delivering a 0-62mph sprint in just 3.2 seconds for the IM 5 and 3.5 seconds for the IM 6. That’s supercar territory and puts both models in direct competition with Tesla’s Performance variants.
Inside, the tech focus is clear. Both cars feature a massive 26.3-inch wraparound infotainment display paired with a 10.5-inch central touchscreen. Physical buttons are out, replaced by a sleek, digital-first interface. Features like a panoramic roof, ‘rainy night’ driving mode, automatic park assist, and rear steering (which trims the IM 5’s turning circle to under 10 meters) round out a package that feels genuinely premium.
What’s the Backstory Behind IM and Why Should You Care?
IM isn’t just another badge slapped on an MG. The brand was born from a collaboration between some of China’s biggest tech and automotive players, aiming to blend cutting-edge research with real-world usability. Since its 2020 founding, IM has rapidly expanded its lineup and made a splash at major auto shows, including Geneva and Goodwood.
The move to bring IM to the UK signals MG’s confidence in its ability to go toe-to-toe with established EV giants. It’s also a sign of how quickly the EV landscape is evolving—new players with deep pockets and serious tech are no longer content to play second fiddle.
Are There Any Unique Features That Set the IM 5 and IM 6 Apart?
Beyond the headline specs, MG has sprinkled in some thoughtful touches. The ‘rainy night’ driving mode is a nod to British weather, optimizing visibility and traction in less-than-ideal conditions. Rear steering isn’t common in this segment, but it makes city driving and tight parking noticeably easier. And while the full UK spec list is still under wraps, early indications suggest a strong focus on comfort and convenience.
What About Future-Proofing and Upcoming Tech?
MG has hinted at even more advanced tech on the horizon, such as the IM 6 Lightyear Edition with a 900V semi-solid-state battery and 400kW peak charging speeds. While there’s no official word yet on whether this version will make it to the UK, it’s a clear sign that MG is investing heavily in next-generation battery technology. As charging networks improve, these capabilities could become a genuine game-changer for everyday EV drivers.
The Big Takeaway? MG’s IM 5 and IM 6 aren’t about perfection—they’re about smarter adjustments. By focusing on range, charging speed, and clever features that actually matter to drivers, MG is making the EV market more competitive and accessible. Start with one change this week—maybe it’s test-driving something new or just keeping an eye on the latest tech—and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.