MG 5 vs Toyota HiLux
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars 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 MG 5 starts from $32,990 before on-road costs, while the Toyota HiLux opens at $33,990. That makes the MG 5 the more affordable entry point by $1,000.
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 $36,289 and $37,389 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs favour the MG 5 by roughly $1,285 in fuel alone.
Safety Rundown
The Toyota HiLux holds a 5-star ANCAP rating vs 3 stars for the MG 5.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The MG 5 packs more ADAS features with 4 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 3 in the Toyota HiLux.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the MG 5 and 8 in the Toyota HiLux. The MG 5 adds a 360-degree camera that the Toyota HiLux misses.
Feature Showdown
The MG 5 features a 10-inch touchscreen, while the Toyota HiLux gets a 12.3-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG 5 stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Toyota HiLux. The Toyota HiLux counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Interior trim differs: the MG 5 gets synthetic leather upholstery while the Toyota HiLux offers fabric.
Drivetrain
The MG 5 uses a 1.5L Turbo Petrol producing 119kW and 250Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout.
The Toyota HiLux responds with a 2.8L 4-cyl Turbo-Diesel making 150kW and 420Nm, paired to a manual driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 10.2 seconds.
The Toyota HiLux has the clear power advantage at 150kW vs 119kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The MG 5 measures 4,675mm long on a 2,680mm wheelbase, 705mm shorter than the Toyota HiLux at 5,380mm (3,085mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Toyota HiLux generally means more rear legroom.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.8m diameter
Good
Based on 10.8m 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 $1,824/year for the MG 5 and $2,081/year for the Toyota HiLux. That is a $257 annual difference in favour of the MG 5.
Estimated annual total: $1,824 (MG 5) vs $2,081 (Toyota HiLux). The MG 5 saves you roughly $257 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km (MG 5) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Toyota HiLux). The MG 5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG 5 if: You want the lower entry price, want lower running costs, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Toyota HiLux if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Toyota's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The MG 5 takes 4 of 6 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. The MG 5 will save you roughly $257 a year in fuel. The MG 5 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.
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.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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