MG 5 I (AP12) photos

The first generation MG5, internally designated as AP12, debuted in 2012 following the preview by the MG Concept 5. Developed by SAIC on the front-wheel-drive platform shared with the Roewe 350 compact sedan, the car aimed at younger buyers with its aggressive front fascia and sharp character lines. The entry-level powertrain was a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre VTi-Tech four-cylinder unit generating 109 hp, mated to either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. A more potent 1.5-litre turbocharged Hyper-Boost engine producing 129 hp followed, paired with a 6-speed automatic sourced from Aisin. Inside, it featured the proprietary i-Voka telematics system with early smartphone integration and internet connectivity. The car was sold predominantly in China, with assembly and localized sales in select Southeast Asian markets such as Thailand.