MG has firmly planted its flag in the UK's electric vehicle market with the launch of the new S6, a large, family-focused SUV that aims to compete on more than just price. The brand, revitalised under Chinese ownership by SAIC, is now targeting rivals with a compelling mix of vast interior space, surprising refinement, and generous standard equipment.
A Spacious and Surprising Cabin
Where the S6’s exterior styling is deliberately clean and aerodynamic, its real appeal becomes apparent the moment you step inside. MG has created one of the most spacious cabins available, boasting vast rear-seat legroom that can comfortably accommodate adults well over six feet tall. The sense of airiness is enhanced by a long 2.8-metre wheelbase and a completely flat floor.
Practicality is a key strength. The boot offers a substantial 674 litres of space, measured to the ceiling, and folding the rear seats opens up a cavernous 1,910 litres for larger items. In two-wheel-drive models, there's also a genuinely useful 124-litre 'frunk' under the bonnet, perfect for storing charging cables.
The cabin marks a significant step up in quality for MG. Material choices are much improved, creating a far more premium feel than in older models. Storage is exceptional, with MG claiming over 30 different compartments, including a huge cubby beneath the floating centre console and a deep armrest box.
Performance, Range and On-The-Road Manners
All versions of the MG S6 use a substantial 77kWh battery. In the single-motor Trophy Long Range model, this translates to a claimed maximum range of 329 miles. During real-world testing on UK country lanes and motorways in cold weather, efficiency averaged around 3.1 miles per kWh, suggesting a more realistic winter range closer to 230 miles. The absence of a heat pump as an option does impact cold-weather efficiency.
Performance from the 241bhp rear motor is more than adequate for family duties, delivering smooth, linear acceleration that sees 0-62mph dispatched in a respectable 7.3 seconds. A quicker dual-motor, all-wheel-drive version is available, cutting the 0-62mph time to 5.1 seconds, but it adds little beyond straight-line pace and is harder to recommend for most buyers.
Where the S6 truly impresses is with its refinement. Wind and tyre noise are impressively muted, making cruising on smooth roads a serene experience. The ride, however, lacks a final layer of polish on the UK's more broken road surfaces, where the suspension can feel a little caught out, though it's no worse than many rivals.
Technology, Pricing and The Final Verdict
Technology has been a historical weak point for MG, but the S6 shows clear improvement. A 12.8-inch central touchscreen is bright and responsive, and a welcome row of physical shortcut buttons for climate and volume remains. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, and the Trophy trim adds a head-up display and an impressive 11-speaker audio system.
The MG S6 range starts from £37,995 for the SE Long Range, but the £40,995 Trophy Long Range is the sweet spot, adding features like live traffic updates, a 360-degree camera, and ventilated front seats. All models benefit from a seven-year/80,000-mile vehicle warranty and an eight-year/100,000-mile battery warranty.
The MG S6 successfully blends huge space, quiet refinement, and generous kit with the brand's trademark value. While its charging speed peaks at a modest 144kW and the ride could be more polished, the Trophy Long Range represents a sensible and surprisingly sophisticated choice in the competitive family EV market.
