MG S5 Electric SUV Gets 5-Star Euro NCAP Rating, Set to Replace ZS EV in India
MG Motor is preparing to roll out the all-new S5 EV in India, a next-generation electric SUV that will take over from the ageing ZS EV. While the Indian debut is still some months away, the car is already making headlines in Europe, where it has secured a full five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP. This development positions the S5 EV as not just a technological upgrade over the ZS EV but also a major leap forward in safety - a factor that is gaining increasing weight among urban EV buyers.
A Step Up From the ZS EV
The MG ZS EV has had a respectable run in India’s electric SUV space, but its age is beginning to show. In contrast, the S5 EV has been built on a more advanced platform and features updated styling, better interiors, and significantly more equipment.
The new SUV adopts the design language seen on MG’s global electric range, including the MG4 and MG Cyberster, with a sleeker front, cleaner lines, and improved aerodynamic efficiency.
In terms of size, the S5 EV is expected to be slightly longer and wider than the ZS, allowing for better cabin space and boot capacity. The design update not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to better real-world efficiency, a critical factor in EV usability.
Impressive Safety Credentials
One of the headline features of the MG S5 EV is its five-star Euro NCAP safety rating, which makes it one of the safest electric SUVs in its category. The test results revealed strong adult and child occupant protection scores, as well as a robust set of active safety systems, including autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, and traffic sign recognition.
For buyers, this rating means greater peace of mind, especially for those upgrading from budget hatchbacks or compact crossovers. As the Indian market matures, safety is no longer viewed as a luxury - it's becoming a non-negotiable feature.
Performance, Range, and Practicality
Though India-specific specifications are yet to be confirmed, the global version of the S5 EV comes with multiple powertrain options, including a 61.8 kWh battery offering a WLTP range of up to 450 kilometres. There’s also talk of a performance variant with dual motors and all-wheel drive, which could appeal to buyers looking for a more spirited driving experience.
Charging times are expected to improve as well. With 150 kW DC fast charging support, the battery can go from 10 to 80 percent in just under 30 minutes which makes it ideal for highway travel. More importantly, MG is expected to offer Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality, allowing users to power external devices or even charge other EVs.
What This Means for Buyers
The S5 EV arrives at a time when the Indian electric car market is expanding, yet remains concentrated around a few key players. Tata continues to dominate with its Nexon EV and Punch EV, while Mahindra is preparing for an electric SUV onslaught. MG’s move to replace the ZS EV with a better-equipped, more refined, and safer model helps future-proof its EV portfolio.
The ZS EV’s current pricing sits between ₹18.98 lakh and ₹24.98 lakh (ex-showroom). While the S5 EV will undoubtedly carry a slight premium, MG is expected to maintain aggressive pricing to compete with upcoming models from Hyundai, Maruti Suzuki, and Mahindra. Local assembly will play a key role here, as will strategic localisation of components.
Raising the Bar in Entry-Premium EV Segment
With safety now emerging as a major purchase consideration, the S5 EV’s Euro NCAP credentials could make it a benchmark in the segment. It offers a more modern experience than the ZS EV, both in terms of technology and cabin feel, while retaining the practical benefits of a compact electric SUV.
Its arrival will also help MG Motor refresh its EV image in India. Although the Comet has brought in volume, the S5 EV could help re-establish MG’s foothold among premium urban EV buyers looking for a combination of safety, performance, and smart design.
The launch timeline is yet to be officially announced, but it’s likely to happen before the end of FY2026. If MG can get the pricing and localisation strategy right, the S5 EV could become one of the strongest challengers in the ₹25 lakh EV bracket as one that blends international build quality with market-specific value.