BYD Atto 2 vs MG 5
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 BYD Atto 2 starts from $31,990 before on-road costs, while the MG 5 opens at $32,990. That makes the BYD Atto 2 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 $35,189 and $36,289 respectively.
The BYD Atto 2 qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The MG 5, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
The BYD Atto 2 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 2 in the BYD Atto 2.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, a reversing camera. Airbag count is 6 in the BYD Atto 2 and 6 in the MG 5. The MG 5 adds a 360-degree camera that the BYD Atto 2 misses.
Feature Showdown
The BYD Atto 2 features a 10.1-inch touchscreen, while the MG 5 gets a 10-inch display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
Drivetrain
The BYD Atto 2 uses a Electric producing 130kW and 290Nm of torque, sent through a auto to a FWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The MG 5 responds with a 1.5L Turbo Petrol making 119kW and 250Nm, paired to a automatic driving the front wheels.
The BYD Atto 2 has the clear power advantage at 130kW vs 119kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The BYD Atto 2 measures 4,310mm long on a 2,620mm wheelbase, 365mm shorter than the MG 5 at 4,675mm (2,680mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the MG 5 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 400L in the BYD Atto 2 and 401L in the MG 5, giving the MG 5 a 1L advantage.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
10.6m diameter
Good
Based on 10.6m 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: 6 years / 150,000km (BYD Atto 2) vs 10 years / 250,000km (MG 5). The MG 5 has longer coverage.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the BYD Atto 2 if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer BYD's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the MG 5 if: You need more boot space, value a longer warranty, or prefer MG's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The BYD Atto 2 takes 3 of 5 key spec categories and comes in at a lower price. 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, BYD Atto 2 and MG 5?
The BYD Atto 2 is the cheapest at $31,990 before on-road costs. That undercuts the MG 5 by $1,000.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The MG 5 uses the least fuel at 6.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
The BYD Atto 2 has the highest ANCAP rating at 5 stars.
Which has the most boot space?
The MG 5 has the largest boot at 401L.
Which can tow the most?
The BYD Atto 2 has the highest braked towing capacity at 1,500kg.
Which has the best warranty?
The MG 5 has the longest warranty at 10 years / 250k km.
Which is the most powerful?
The BYD Atto 2 makes the most power at 130kW.
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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