MG ZS EV vs Hyundai IONIQ 5
Two electric SUVs go head to head. Which EV is the better buy for Australian drivers in 2026?
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 ZS EV starts from $43,990 before on-road costs, while the Hyundai IONIQ 5 opens at $71,990. That makes the MG ZS EV the more affordable entry point by $28,000.
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 $48,389 and $79,189 respectively.
Both models qualify for Fringe Benefit Tax (FBT) exemption, which is a significant advantage for salary-sacrificed novated leases. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save $5,000-$15,000+ per year compared to an equivalent ICE vehicle.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The MG ZS EV stands out with Apple CarPlay that you will not find on the Hyundai IONIQ 5. The Hyundai IONIQ 5 counters with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, head-up display, wireless charging, panoramic roof, heated front seats, ventilated seats, power tailgate and BOSE audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The MG ZS EV uses a Electric Motor producing 115kW and 280Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.2 seconds.
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 responds with a Electric making 168kW and 350Nm, paired to a automatic driving the rear wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 8.5 seconds.
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has the clear power advantage at 168kW vs 115kW. In the real-world sprint, the MG ZS EV is 0.3s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Battery: 72.6kWh (MG ZS EV) vs 77.4kWh (Hyundai IONIQ 5), giving WLTP ranges of 440km and 433km. DC fast charging peaks at 92kW (MG ZS EV) vs 220kW (Hyundai IONIQ 5).
Space & Comfort
The MG ZS EV measures 4,323mm long on a 2,585mm wheelbase, 312mm shorter than the Hyundai IONIQ 5 at 4,635mm (3,000mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Hyundai IONIQ 5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 359L in the MG ZS EV and 527L in the Hyundai IONIQ 5, giving the Hyundai IONIQ 5 a 168L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.0m diameter
Good
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
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 10 years / 999,999km (MG ZS EV) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Hyundai IONIQ 5). The MG ZS EV has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the MG ZS EV if: You want the lower entry price, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Hyundai IONIQ 5 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, or prefer Hyundai's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 takes 5 of 9 key spec categories. If boot space matters, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 has a clear edge. The MG ZS EV 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, MG ZS EV and Hyundai IONIQ 5?
The MG ZS EV is the cheapest at $43,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Hyundai IONIQ 5 by $28,000.
Which has the longest driving range?
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has the most range at 507km (WLTP).
Which charges fastest?
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 accepts the highest DC charging at up to 220kW.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Hyundai IONIQ 5 all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has the largest boot at 527L.
Which can tow the most?
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,600kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG ZS EV has the longest warranty at 10 years / 1000k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 makes the most power at 168kW. The MG ZS EV is quickest to 100km/h in 8.2s.
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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