MG 5 Financing: How much do you need to buy one?

Despite capitalizing heavily on its British heritage, MG Philippines has an undeniable Chinese ownership that becomes evident when it comes to pricing in its lineup. The MG 5 subcompact sedan is among those that carry a surprising amount of kit while undercutting even the most affordable offerings from its more mainstream rivals.

Athletic European styling meets Oriental sensibilities, in a package that the carmaker boasts is the longest and widest in its class, with dimensions that span 4,601mm long, 1,818mm wide, and 1,489mm high, all resting on a 2,680mm wheelbase. But its impressive proportions are only the tip of the iceberg, so find out just how much it will take for you to enjoy what the MG 5 has to offer.      

MG 5 Core 1.5 MT

Even as the base trim level, the MG 5 Core already packs a healthy number of features on its 1,185 kg. curb weight. Automatic halogen projector headlamps with leveling, accompanied by LED daytime running lights and power-adjustable side mirrors. Sturdy 15-inch steel wheels should be enough to get through all but the worst potholes in the metropolis.

Projector headlamps are standard across the range

There’s fabric seats for five occupants, electric air-conditioning, and an 8-inch color infotainment touchscreen. The powertrain comprises a 1.5-liter 16-valve gasoline engine that churns out 112 hp and 150 Nm of torque to the front wheels through a 5-speed manual transmission. A reverse camera complements dual airbags and anti-lock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution.       

The MG 5 Core comes in at Php 658,888, which can be broken down into 36 monthly payments of Php 18,428 on a downpayment of 20 percent or Php 131,778. Raising the cash to 30 percent or Php 197,666 and extending the contract to 48 months reduces the recurring bill to Php 12,977, while going all the way to 60 months requires you to pay just Php 11,118 on a regular basis.   

MG 5 Style 1.5 CVT

The midrange offering adds auto-folding side mirrors and frameless windshield wipers to the exterior, apart from a set of 16-inch monotone alloy wheels. Leather seats are standard in the cabin, featuring 6-way manual adjustment for the driver and 4-way adjustment for the front passenger. Passengers can avail of natural light on journeys with the electric sunroof, while drivers benefit from a color LCD trip computer and push-button engine start. The power plant transfers power to the drive wheels through a continuously variable transmission, while cruise control and additional side airbags enhance onboard safety.   

The MG5 boasts up to 512 liters of space in the trunk  

Priced at Php 848,888, the MG5 Style can be had a 30 percent downpayment or Php 254,666, which translates into 48 monthly payments of Php 16,719. A longer 60-month contract entails an amortization amount of Php 14,324, while increasing the downpayment to 40 percent or Php 339,555 results in a monthly payable of Php 12,278.  

MG 5 Alpha 1.5 CVT 

The flagship MG 5 Alpha offers the most complete range of standard features for the Philippine-spec release, starting with LED headlamps, heated exterior mirrors, and two-tone 16-inch alloys. Inside, owners can find the ideal driving position easily with 6-way power adjustment on the driver’s seat. The 10-inch head unit is patched to 6 speakers, while five USB ports allow everyone on board to charge personal devices.

Even the base variant comes equipped with a touchscreen head unit

In terms of safety, the top-spec MG 5 comes with a complete array of front, side, and curtain airbags. These are complemented by electronic stability control, brake assist, rear parking sensors, and a 360-degree surround camera system.       

The MG 5 Alpha is priced at Php 938,888. On a downpayment of 20 percent or Php 187,778, it carries 36 monthly payments of Php 26,259 each. Doubling the cash payment to 40 percent or Php 375,555 returns a monthly amortization of Php 19,694, further going down to Php 15,850 with a longer 48-month contract.  

A 360-degree surround camera system enhances safety

As always, these are all estimates, exclusive of other costs such as maintenance, fuel, insurance, and registration at the end of the first three years of ownership. Your nearest MG dealer will be able to give you a more accurate computation based on your current budget.

Find more tips that add up to a great car ownership experience at Philkotse.com.