The MG5 Vibe comes as standard with auto LED headlights, a large (in the segment) 10.0-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capability with four speakers for the sound system, as well as a push-button start, synthetic leather seats.

Stepping up to the Essence adds a sunroof, a six-speaker sound system, electric seat adjustment for the driver, and steering wheel shift paddles.

The MG5's interior is about on par with rivals at its price point, though the inclusion of synthetic leather and a minimalistic design approach is a welcome semi-premium touch,

Closer inspeaction reveals hard and scratchy plastics, but that's forgiveable at this price point.

Both versions of the MG5 have a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that drives the front wheels, though the Vibe has a naturally aspirated version that makes 84kW and 150Nm. It transfers power via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

The Essence variant is turbocharged and makes 119kW and 250Nm, which drives the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

The MG5 sedan has a five-seat configuration, though the rear seats aren't split-fold. This means longer luggage can't fit in the boot at the same time as any rear passengers.

In both grades, seats are trimmed in synthetic leather instead of cloth. The Essence variant adds electric adjustment for the driver's seat.

MG claims a fuel economy figure of 5.7 litres per 100km for the Vibe, while the turbocharged Essence is at 5.9L/100km.

With its 50-litre fuel tank, the Vibe has a theoretical range of 877km, while the Essence could travel 847km, though these require averaging the claimed figures and a perfectly full tank.

The Vibe can run on 91RON, while the Essence requires at least 85RON.