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Used MG ES5 Buying Guide in UAE

Cartea
Cartea
Published: 2025-09-02
Updated: 2025-11-01
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Is MG ES5 A Good Choice as A Used Car?

The MG ES5 is a compact sedan that has gained attention in the UAE market for its affordability, modern design, and decent feature set. Whether you’re looking to buy a used MG ES5 in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Sharjah, this article will guide you through the different generations of the MG ES5 to help you decide if it’s a good option for your needs. We'll also highlight which generation is the best value for money and what you should watch out for when inspecting a used MG ES5.

Specification Comparison

To help you compare the different generations of the MG ES5, here is a clear side-by-side table highlighting the specifications UAE buyers care most about:

Generation Name/Years Engine Options Fuel Economy (km/l or L/100km) Transmission Drivetrain Notable Features
1st Gen (2016-2018) 1.5L NA, 1.5L Turbo 15 km/l (1.5 NA), 13 km/l (Turbo) CVT FWD Basic infotainment, decent cabin space
2nd Gen (2019-2021) 1.5L Turbo 14 km/l CVT FWD Apple CarPlay, better materials, safety tech
3rd Gen (2022-Present) 1.5L Turbo 15 km/l CVT FWD Wireless charging, larger touchscreen, ADAS

Generation-Based Breakdown

1st Generation (2016–2018)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Affordable in the used car market
  • Decent fuel economy for its class
  • Spacious cabin for a compact sedan

Cons:

  • Lacks advanced safety features
  • Basic infotainment system
  • Outdated design compared to newer generations

Key Features and Updates Introduced

  • Basic infotainment system with Bluetooth and USB
  • Manual air conditioning
  • Decent cargo space

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

  • 1.5L Naturally Aspirated: ~15 km/l
  • 1.5L Turbocharged: ~13 km/l

Known Problems and Common Issues

  • Reports of CVT reliability issues over time
  • Some complaints about interior plastic quality
  • No major recalls reported for this generation

Recommended Year to Purchase

🔗 View MG ES5 2018 2018 MG ES5

Overview

The 1st generation MG ES5 is a good budget option for buyers looking for a simple, reliable compact sedan. While it lacks modern features, it offers reasonable fuel efficiency and cabin space. However, it may feel outdated in terms of design and technology, especially in the UAE's competitive used car market.


2nd Generation (2019–2021)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Improved interior materials
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support
  • Enhanced safety features

Cons:

  • Slightly lower fuel efficiency compared to 1st gen
  • Resale value depreciation

Key Features and Updates Introduced

  • 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Rear parking sensors and a reverse camera

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

  • 1.5L Turbocharged: ~14 km/l

Known Problems and Common Issues

  • Turbo lag noted by some drivers
  • Some issues reported with touchscreen responsiveness
  • A recall in 2020 for potential airbag sensor issues

Recommended Year to Purchase

🔗 View MG ES5 2020 2020 MG ES5

Overview

The 2nd generation MG ES5 strikes a balance between affordability and features. It’s a great option for buyers in the UAE looking for a modern compact sedan with connectivity features like Apple CarPlay. However, turbo lag and a slightly lower fuel economy might be a drawback for some.


3rd Generation (2022–Present)

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Modern exterior design
  • Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
  • Wireless charging

Cons:

  • Higher price in the used car market
  • Limited availability as it’s still a relatively new model

Key Features and Updates Introduced

  • Wireless charging pad
  • Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control
  • Larger infotainment system

Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency

  • 1.5L Turbocharged: ~15 km/l

Known Problems and Common Issues

  • No major issues reported yet due to its recent release

Recommended Year to Purchase

🔗 View MG ES5 2022 2022 MG ES5

Overview

The 3rd generation MG ES5 stands out for its advanced features and modern design, making it a strong contender for tech-savvy buyers in the UAE. However, as a newer model, it comes with a higher price tag. It's an excellent choice for those who want the latest features.


Conclusion

Which Generation is Best Value for Money?

For UAE buyers, the 2nd generation (2019-2021 MG ES5) offers the best balance between price, features, and reliability. It includes modern tech like Apple CarPlay, decent safety features, and a competitive price point in the used car market.

Alternatives

If you’re considering alternatives to the MG ES5, here are some options:

  • Toyota Corolla: Renowned for its reliability and resale value in the UAE.
  • Hyundai Elantra: Offers a stylish design and impressive fuel efficiency.
  • Nissan Sentra: Reliable with a spacious interior, ideal for families.

These competitors are worth considering if you prioritize reliability or a larger dealer network.

Tips Before Purchasing

  1. Inspect the CVT Transmission: Ensure smooth operation and check for maintenance history.
  2. Check for Recalls: Verify if any recalls have been completed, especially for the 2nd-gen airbag sensor issue.
  3. Test Drive: Pay attention to turbo lag and infotainment system responsiveness.
  4. Service History: Always ask for a complete service record to ensure proper maintenance.
  5. Buy from Reputable Dealers: Consider buying from authorized dealers or certified pre-owned programs for added peace of mind.

By following these tips and using the information provided, you can confidently decide whether a used MG ES5 is the right choice for you in the UAE.

Also Read:

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