The electric vehicle (EV) market is heating up, with Chinese automaker MG making a bold move into the premium segment under its new IM (Intelligence in Motion) sub-brand. Launched in Australia as “IM Presented by MG Motor,” the 2026 MG IM5 sedan and IM6 SUV aim to challenge established players like Tesla, offering large-car space, cutting-edge technology, and blistering performance at prices that undercut competitors. Starting at $60,990 drive-away, these vehicles promise to deliver luxury and innovation for less than the cost of a Tesla Model 3 or Model Y. This article dives into the pricing, specifications, features, and market positioning of the IM5 and IM6, exploring how they stack up against Tesla and other rivals in the Australian EV landscape.
Pricing: Tesla-Beating Value
The MG IM5 sedan and IM6 SUV are priced to disrupt the premium EV market, offering large-car dimensions and advanced features at a fraction of the cost of traditional luxury brands like BMW or Mercedes-Benz. According to recent announcements, the drive-away pricing for both models is as follows:
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IM5 Premium (RWD, 75kWh): $60,990
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IM6 Premium (RWD, 75kWh): $60,990
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IM5 Platinum (RWD, 100kWh): $70,990
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IM6 Platinum (RWD, 100kWh): $70,990
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IM5 Platinum AWD (100kWh): $80,990
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IM6 Platinum AWD (100kWh): $80,990
These prices position the IM5 and IM6 as direct competitors to the Tesla Model 3 ($66,900 for the Performance trim) and Model Y ($58,900 before on-road costs). The entry-level IM5 and IM6 are approximately $6,000 cheaper than the Tesla Model 3 Performance, despite offering larger dimensions closer to a BMW 5 Series or X5. The top-spec AWD models, priced at $80,990, deliver supercar-like acceleration and advanced tech, making them compelling alternatives to pricier EVs like the BMW i4 or Mercedes-Benz EQE, which often exceed $100,000.
This pricing strategy reflects MG’s ambition to capture market share by offering premium features at accessible price points. Unlike the MG Cyberster, which tops out at $120,000, the IM5 and IM6 stay under the $100,000 mark, ensuring broad appeal in Australia’s competitive EV market.
Design and Dimensions
The IM5 sedan and IM6 SUV are designed to stand out in the crowded EV market. Both vehicles measure approximately five meters in length, making them larger than the Tesla Model 3 (4.7m) and Model Y (4.8m), and closer in size to luxury vehicles like the BMW 5 Series (4.9m) and X5 (4.9m).
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IM5 Sedan: Measuring 4,931mm long, 1,960mm wide, and 1,474mm tall with a 2,950mm wheelbase, the IM5 offers a spacious interior and a sleek, aerodynamic profile. Its boot capacity is 457 liters, expanding to 1,290 liters with the rear seats folded.
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IM6 SUV: Slightly shorter at 4,904mm but wider (1,988mm) and taller (1,669mm), the IM6 shares the same 2,950mm wheelbase. Its larger boot offers 665 liters, expanding to 1,640 liters, making it ideal for families or those needing extra cargo space.
Both models feature six exterior color options—Ares Black, Athena White, Rembrandt Grey, Raphael Beige, Nevis Blue, and one unspecified shade—and two interior trims, Dover Beige and Highland Grey. The premium design, combined with high-quality materials, positions the IM5 and IM6 as viable alternatives to European luxury brands, while their collaboration with tech giant Alibaba ensures cutting-edge digital interfaces.
Performance and Powertrains
The IM5 and IM6 offer a range of powertrains to suit different driving preferences, from efficient rear-wheel-drive (RWD) models to high-performance all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants.
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IM5 Premium (RWD): Equipped with a 75kWh battery and a 217kW/450Nm rear motor, it delivers a 0-100km/h time of around 6.4 seconds and a top speed of 200km/h.
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IM6 Premium (RWD): Shares the same 75kWh battery and 217kW/450Nm motor, with a claimed range of 505km (NEDC) and a similar 0-100km/h time.
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IM5 Platinum (RWD): Features a 100kWh battery and a 300kW/500Nm motor, achieving a 755km range (NEDC) and a 0-100km/h time of approximately 4.6 seconds.
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IM6 Platinum (RWD): Also uses a 100kWh battery with 300kW/500Nm, offering a 670km range (NEDC).
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IM5 Platinum AWD: Dual motors (200kW front, 372kW rear) deliver 572kW/802Nm, enabling a blistering 2.74-second 0-100km/h sprint and a 240km/h top speed. The range is 625km (NEDC).
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IM6 Platinum AWD: Matches the IM5’s dual**/802Nm output but achieves a 3.48-second 0-100km/h time and a 600km range (NEDC).
The 900-volt electrical architecture in the 100kWh models allows ultra-fast charging, with a 30-80% charge in just 15.2 minutes for the larger battery and 20 minutes for the 75kWh version. These performance figures rival high-end EVs like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, while the pricing remains significantly lower.
Range and Efficiency
The IM5 and IM6 prioritize efficiency with impressive NEDC range claims, though these are more lenient than WLTP standards used by most EV manufacturers. The IM5 Platinum RWD boasts a 755km range, while the IM6 Platinum RWD offers 670km. The AWD variants see slightly reduced ranges of 625km (IM5) and 600km (IM6), and the entry-level IM6 Premium achieves 505km. Real-world ranges are likely 10-20% lower due to driving conditions, but these figures remain competitive, especially against the Tesla Model 3 (around 500-600km WLTP) and Model Y (500-550km WLTP).
The vehicles’ 900-volt architecture enhances charging efficiency, making them practical for long-distance travel. The IM5 and IM6 also feature advanced thermal management systems to maintain battery performance in Australia’s varied climates.
Technology and Features
The IM5 and IM6 are packed with innovative technology, reflecting their collaboration with Alibaba. Key features include:
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Dual-Screen Interface: A 26.3-inch driver’s touchscreen and a 10.5-inch central infotainment screen provide seamless control over navigation, media, and vehicle settings.
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Four-Wheel Steering: A 12-degree four-wheel steering system with Crab Mode allows diagonal movement for easier parking and maneuvering.
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Intelligent Driving Aids: Features like One Touch Reverse, which retraces the last 100 meters, and advanced parking assistance enhance urban usability.
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Premium Audio: A 20-speaker sound system delivers immersive audio quality.
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Magnetic Accessories: Dashboard panels allow secure attachment of tablets and phones, enhancing in-car connectivity.
These features position the IM5 and IM6 as tech-forward vehicles, rivaling the Tesla Model 3’s minimalist interface and the BMW i4’s premium cabin experience.
Market Positioning and Competition
The IM5 and IM6 are strategically positioned to compete with mid-size and large EVs in Australia. The IM5 sedan targets the Tesla Model 3, BYD Seal, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Polestar 2, and BMW i4, offering similar performance and range at a lower price point. The IM6 SUV competes with the Tesla Model Y, BYD Sealion 7, XPeng G6, Kia EV5, and premium models like the Audi Q4 e-tron and BMW iX.
Unlike traditional luxury brands, the IM5 and IM6 leverage MG’s value-driven heritage and Alibaba’s tech expertise to offer high-end features at accessible prices. Their larger dimensions and competitive pricing make them appealing to buyers seeking spacious, luxurious EVs without the premium price tag. However, MG faces challenges in establishing IM as a credible luxury brand, given its budget-car reputation. The “IM Presented by MG Motor” branding aims to bridge this gap by associating the vehicles with MG’s growing market presence in Australia, where it aims to sell 60,000 vehicles in 2025 and rank among the top three brands by 2030.
Warranty and Ownership
The IM5 and IM6 come with a seven-year all-inclusive warranty, provided the vehicles are serviced within the IM dealer network, similar to Mitsubishi and Nissan’s extended warranties. This enhances ownership confidence, though the condition of dealership servicing may limit flexibility for some buyers.
The vehicles are sold through select MG dealerships alongside mainstream models like the MG 3 and MG 4, ensuring widespread availability. Orders are open on MG’s website, with deliveries expected in mid-2025.
Challenges and Considerations
While the IM5 and IM6 offer compelling value, potential challenges include:
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Brand Perception: MG’s budget-car image may hinder IM’s acceptance as a premium brand, despite the vehicles’ advanced features.
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Real-World Range: NEDC range claims may not translate to real-world conditions, potentially disappointing buyers expecting Tesla-like efficiency.
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Resale Value: Recent data shows used EV prices, including Tesla and MG models, dropping significantly (e.g., Tesla Model 3 values fell 30% from 2023 to 2024). The IM5 and IM6’s long-term value retention is uncertain.
Buyers should test-drive the vehicles and compare real-world range and performance against competitors like the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Sealion 7, which start at lower price points but offer smaller dimensions.
In Summary
The 2026 MG IM5 sedan and IM6 SUV represent a bold step for MG into the premium EV market, offering large-car space, supercar-like performance, and advanced technology at prices starting at $60,990 drive-away. With ranges up to 755km, ultra-fast charging, and innovative features like four-wheel steering and AI-assisted driving, these vehicles challenge Tesla’s Model 3 and Model Y, as well as premium rivals like the BMW i4 and Mercedes-Benz EQE, at a significantly lower cost. While brand perception and real-world range remain hurdles, the IM5 and IM6’s value proposition, backed by a seven-year warranty and MG’s growing Australian presence, makes them a compelling choice for buyers seeking luxury EVs on a budget. As deliveries begin in mid-2025, these vehicles could redefine the premium EV segment in Australia.