Inside is where MG has really waved the improvement wand. Gone are the ugly and flimsy-feeling plastics from the 4, to be replaced with soft-touch faux leather and suede. There are metal-effect accents, almost no gloss black plastic, and it all feels well screwed together. Even the plastic smell that plagues some MGs is all but gone.
The seats themselves are upholstered in a mix of fabric and faux leather, and despite the absence of adjustable lumbar support, are quite comfortable – more so than the MG4’s, which always feel like they’re sagging a bit, even when new.
The MG 4 was always a cut above BYDs for usability because it had a simpler multimedia system, as well as a couple of physical buttons. The S5 improves on that with a set of dials and rocker switches for the temperature, volume, and fan control. Ideal.
Controls for the heated seats and steering wheel are permanently on the touchscreen, which responds much more quickly and smoothly than before. The menus have been cleaned up, with a clearer structure and bigger buttons.
Sure, the fake carbon fibre is a bit naff, and there isn’t the same design flair or originality as in the Renault Scenic, but this MG is in the same conversation as European and Korean options, and doesn’t require ‘for the price’ caveats.
General practicality is competitive. Rear passenger space is plentiful, and the floor is flat, if a bit high. At 453 litres, the boot is just as big as the Scenic’s, but adds a handy variable-height floor.