Chery C5 vs MG HS
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Chery C5 starts from $29,990 before on-road costs, while the MG HS opens at $33,990. That makes the Chery C5 the more affordable entry point by $4,000.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $32,989 and $37,389 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Chery C5 and MG HS hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating. Adult occupant protection scored 87% for the Chery C5 and 92% for the MG HS.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG HS packs more ADAS features with 5 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 1 in the Chery C5.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 7 in the Chery C5 and 6 in the MG HS.
Feature Showdown
The Chery C5 features a 10.3-inch touchscreen, while the MG HS gets a 10.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG HS counters with panoramic roof and power tailgate that the Chery C5 does not offer. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Chery C5 uses a Petrol producing 108kW and 210Nm of torque, sent through a 6-speed dual clutch to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The MG HS responds with a Petrol making 125kW and 250Nm, paired to a auto driving the front wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.6 seconds.
The MG HS has the clear power advantage at 125kW vs 108kW. In the real-world sprint, the Chery C5 is 0.1s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Chery C5 measures 4,351mm long on a 2,610mm wheelbase, 319mm shorter than the MG HS at 4,670mm (2,765mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG HS generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 340L in the Chery C5 and 507L in the MG HS, giving the MG HS a 167L advantage.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m to 11.2m
Based on 11.2m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Based on 11.0m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $1,967/year for the Chery C5 and $1,853/year for the MG HS. That is a $114 annual difference in favour of the MG HS.
Estimated annual total: $1,967 (Chery C5) vs $1,853 (MG HS). The MG HS saves you roughly $114 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 7 years / 999,999km (Chery C5) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG HS). The MG HS has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Chery C5 if: You want the lower entry price, or prefer Chery's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG HS if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG HS takes 5 of 7 key spec categories. The MG HS will save you roughly $114 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the MG HS has a clear edge. The MG HS adds peace of mind with a longer 10-year warranty. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Chery C5 and MG HS?
The Chery C5 is the cheapest at $29,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG HS by $4,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MG HS uses the least fuel at 6.5L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Chery C5 and MG HS all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The MG HS has the largest boot at 507L.
Which can tow the most?
The MG HS has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,800kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG HS has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The MG HS makes the most power at 125kW. The Chery C5 is quickest to 100km/h in 8.5s.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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