Jaecoo J5 vs MG ZS
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.
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Price Breakdown
The Jaecoo J5 starts from $35,990 before on-road costs, while the MG ZS opens at $22,990. That makes the MG ZS the more affordable entry point by $13,000.
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. Estimated driveaway prices sit around $36,990 for the Jaecoo J5 and $22,990 for the MG ZS.
The Jaecoo J5 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The MG ZS, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Charging Times
How long each takes to charge, from a household power point to ultra-rapid DC, estimated from battery size and max charge rates.
How long to charge
58.9kWh usablePublic DC
50kW charger · 0–80%
Ultra-rapid DC
up to 130kW · 0–80%
Estimates from usable battery size and the car's max charge rates (7.4kW AC, 130kW DC). Real times vary with temperature, starting charge, charger output and the charging curve.
Feature Showdown
The Jaecoo J5 features a 13.2-inch touchscreen paired with a 8.9-inch digital dash, while the MG ZS gets a 10.3-inch display and 7-inch instruments. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Jaecoo J5 stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, heated front seats, ventilated seats and ambient lighting that you will not find on the MG ZS. The MG ZS counters with Apple CarPlay. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the Jaecoo J5 gets synthetic leather (pet-friendly) upholstery while the MG ZS offers cloth. Climate control is 2-zone in the Jaecoo J5 and 1-zone in the MG ZS.
Drivetrain
The Jaecoo J5 uses a Electric producing 155kW and 288Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds.
The MG ZS responds with a Petrol making 81kW and 140Nm, paired to a cvt driving the front wheels.
The Jaecoo J5 has the clear power advantage at 155kW vs 81kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Jaecoo J5 measures 4,380mm long on a 2,620mm wheelbase, 50mm shorter than the MG ZS at 4,430mm (2,610mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Jaecoo J5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 384L in the Jaecoo J5 and 443L in the MG ZS, giving the MG ZS a 59L advantage.
For towing, the Jaecoo J5 leads with a 1,250kg braked capacity vs 500kg. That 750kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m to 11.0m
Based on 10.8m 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
Compare U-turns side by side
Turning Circle · U-turn compare
kerb-to-kerb, 2 cars0 of 2 clear a 7.0 m street in one sweep
Green cars complete the U-turn; amber need a 3-point turn. Drag the slider to test tighter streets.
Standard widths: AU local streets ~5.5–7 m; main roads ~9–12 m.
True Cost to Own
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 8 years / 999,999km (Jaecoo J5) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG ZS). The MG ZS has longer coverage. Capped-price servicing: 8yr (Jaecoo J5)—.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Jaecoo J5 if: You prioritise performance, need stronger towing, or prefer Jaecoo's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG ZS if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG ZS takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. If boot space matters, the MG ZS has a clear edge. The MG ZS 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, Jaecoo J5 and MG ZS?
The MG ZS is the cheapest at $22,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Jaecoo J5 by $13,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MG ZS uses the least fuel at 6.7L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — MG ZS all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The MG ZS has the largest boot at 443L.
Which can tow the most?
The Jaecoo J5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,250kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG ZS has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Jaecoo J5 makes the most power at 155kW.
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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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