@ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media
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BYD Atto 2 vs MG MGS5 EV – Which car suits you better?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: BYD Atto 2 or MG MGS5 EV?

Atto 2 @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

City slick or country cruiser?

When you size up the two, the BYD Atto 2 reads like the confident urbanist: compact, nimble and keen to turn city life into a playground. The MG MGS5 EV projects a more grown-up presence, aimed at buyers who want a bit more space and composure without screaming executive. Both know their streets and will do the commute with aplomb, but they send different messages at the kerb — one playful, one assured.

Atto 2 @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

How they feel on the road

Behind the wheel the contrasts become character traits rather than spec sheets: the Atto 2 feels light-footed and eager to dart through traffic, while the MGS5 EV is calmer and more composed when the road opens up. Suspension tuning shows the trade-off between city comfort and motorway serenity, with one leaning into agility and the other into stability. Steering feedback and throttle response suit their personas — one cheeky and animated, the other measured and confident.

Life inside: comfort and controls

The cabins are a study in approachability versus refinement: the BYD Atto 2 favours a modern, minimalist vibe that’s easy on the eyes and intuitive to use, while the MG MGS5 EV opts for a more conventional layout with reassuring material choices. Ergonomics are friendly in both, though your preference will depend on whether you like a playful, youthful interior or a slightly more restrained, grown-up environment. Tech is generous across the board, but the way it’s presented — big and bold versus neat and functional — changes the daily experience.

Everyday practicality and family life

Both cars are clearly designed to be lived with, but they take different routes to that goal: one maximises clever packaging to make city living easier, while the other offers a touch more room for people and luggage, appealing to small families and those who pack a little more. Rear seat usability and ease of fitting child seats are solid on both, and their trunks are shaped to swallow everyday items without fuss. If you regularly haul weekend gear or a pram, one will feel marginally more accommodating to your routine.

Ownership: what life after the showroom feels like

Perceived running costs and peace of mind play heavily into long-term satisfaction, and experience shows that both brands have learned to make ownership straightforward and friendly. Warranty and dealer reach are part of the equation, as is how easy it is to plug in and get moving in daily life. For many buyers the deciding factor will be which car feels better suited to their typical week — short hops around town or longer stints on the motorway — rather than headline numbers.

Looks and personality: style that sells

Design is subjective, but neither car hides its intentions: the Atto 2 goes for expressive, attention-grabbing styling that will appeal to trend-conscious drivers, while the MGS5 EV leans into a more assured, mature design language that says reliability and understated taste. Both will turn heads for different reasons, and your choice will say as much about your personal style as it does about practicality. If image matters, pick the one that feels like an extension of your wardrobe.

Which buyer will sleep best with which key?

Commuters who value agility and urban ease will likely enjoy the livelier, more compact character of one car, while buyers who prioritise space, comfort and relaxed cruising will be drawn to the other. Families and weekend adventurers should weigh rear-seat comfort and luggage flexibility, whereas style-conscious drivers should follow the design that makes them smile every morning. Ultimately, it comes down to how you live day to day rather than raw figures alone.

Keep reading — the DriveDuel verdict is coming

We’ve laid out the personalities, the daily realities and the buyer match-ups so you can picture each car in your life, and the final comparison is just around the corner. Stick with us to see which model earns the DriveDuel Champion title after our full evaluation and long-term test. Your ideal match might surprise you, so don’t skip the final chapter.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

BYD Atto 2 has a somewhat advantage in terms of price – it starts at 27400 £, while the MG MGS5 EV costs 32600 £. That’s a price difference of around 5142 £.

In terms of energy consumption, the advantage goes to the MG MGS5 EV: with 15.50 kWh per 100 km, it’s barely noticeable more efficient than the BYD Atto 2 with 16 kWh. That’s a difference of about 0.50 kWh.

As for range, the MG MGS5 EV performs noticeable better – achieving up to 480 km, about 168 km more than the BYD Atto 2.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the MG MGS5 EV has a evident edge – offering 231 HP compared to 177 HP. That’s roughly 54 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the MG MGS5 EV is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 6.30 s, while the BYD Atto 2 takes 7.90 s. That’s about 1.60 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the MG MGS5 EV performs a bit better – reaching 190 km/h, while the BYD Atto 2 tops out at 160 km/h. The difference is around 30 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: MG MGS5 EV pulls to a small extent stronger with 350 Nm compared to 290 Nm. That’s about 60 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, BYD Atto 2 is hardly perceptible lighter – 1570 kg compared to 1710 kg. The difference is around 140 kg.

In terms of boot space, the MG MGS5 EV offers slightly more room – 453 L compared to 400 L. That’s a difference of about 53 L.

In maximum load capacity, the MG MGS5 EV performs minimal better – up to 1441 L, which is about 101 L more than the BYD Atto 2.

When it comes to payload, BYD Atto 2 slight takes the win – 410 kg compared to 395 kg. That’s a difference of about 15 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the MG MGS5 EV shows itself to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £32,600
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MG MGS5 EV

  • Engine Type : Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 170 - 231 HP
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 15.5 - 16.6 kWh
  • Electric Range : 340 - 480 km

BYD Atto 2

5 (1)
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The Atto 2 is making waves in the electric vehicle market with its sleek design and impressive range. This innovative model combines cutting-edge technology with captivating aesthetics, making it a standout choice for eco-conscious drivers. With its spacious interior and advanced features, the Atto 2 offers both comfort and convenience for everyday use.

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MG MGS5 EV

5 (1)
rate

The MG5 EV stands out as one of the few fully electric estate cars available in today's market. Known for its practicality, it offers ample space and a smooth driving experience, perfect for families looking to transition to an electric vehicle without compromising on roominess or comfort. Its sleek design and competitive pricing make it an attractive choice for eco-conscious drivers who value both style and sustainability.

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BYD Atto 2
MG MGS5 EV
Atto 2 @ BYD Auto / BYD Global Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
27400 - 30000 £
Price
32600 - 38600 £
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
16 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 - 16.6 kWh
Electric Range
312 km
Electric Range
340 - 480 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
47.1 - 62.1 kWh
co2
0 g/km
co2
0 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1570 kg
Curb weight
1710 - 1800 kg
Trunk capacity
400 L
Trunk capacity
453 L
Length
4310 mm
Length
4476 mm
Width
1830 mm
Width
1849 mm
Height
1675 mm
Height
1621 - 1633 mm
Max trunk capacity
1340 L
Max trunk capacity
1441 L
Payload
410 kg
Payload
370 - 395 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Electric
Engine Type
Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive
Power HP
177 HP
Power HP
170 - 231 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.90 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6.3 - 8 s
Max Speed
160 km/h
Max Speed
170 - 190 km/h
Torque
290 Nm
Torque
250 - 350 Nm
Number of Cylinders
-
Number of Cylinders
-
Power kW
130 kW
Power kW
125 - 170 kW
Engine capacity
-
Engine capacity
-

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
CO2 Efficiency Class
A
Brand
BYD
Brand
MG
What drivetrain options does the BYD Atto 2 have?

Available configurations include Front-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.