The MG RX5 is one of the brand's entries in the Philippine compact sport utility vehicle (SUV) theater of operations.  Even after four years of its presence, it still has a steep hill to climb to be on par with the more established nameplates. This is despite its relatively low admissions price (Php 1,058,888 to PHP1,228,888), two transmission options (a six-speed stick shift and a seven-speed dual-clutch slushbox), and Apple CarPlay-ready infotainment system.

Not helping matters is its direct competition, which includes the likes of the Toyota RAV4, Subaru Forester, Mazda CX-5, Kia Sportage, Hyundai Tucson, and Honda CR-V. But it's already 2022, and the automaker has introduced a PHP 1,298,888 Alpha variant. So, let's see what the MG RX5 has to make it a standout in the field. 

Pros of the MG RX5

• The engine

The turbocharged 169 PS/ 250 Nm 1.5-liter inline four in front of the cabin is peppy. Also, there's a near-instant scoot with just a prodding of the rightmost pedal.

• The available manual transmission

Featured solely on the Php 1,058,888 Core base model, the six-speed manual gearbox is a rarity in this segment. Frankly, it's a better match for the sport-ute than its automatic counterpart.

• The suspension and steering

The road-holding prowess of the MG RX5 doesn't keep people and items from tipping over, and the damping allows for shuteye on long trips. The steering feel is light overall, and the round things within the front fenders almost always comply with steering wheel inputs.   

• The infotainment

With Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth capability installed, an eight-inch touchscreen head unit, six speakers and USB ports standard, audio controls on the steering wheel, and viewing of what's behind the tailgate when the sport-ute is in reverse, what's not to love?

• Spacious cabin

The rear seats fold in a 60/40 manner to swallow more oversized items, have Isofix latches for child seats, and can handle two to three average-sized Filipinos. Add to that the panoramic sunroof in the Alpha trim and you get the impression you're in a bigger crossover.

• Most of the safety stuff

Standard MG RX5 safety items include the aforementioned ISOFIX latches, an anti-lock slow-down system, deceleration distribution, auto door locking, rear bumper sensors, a reverse gear-activated camera, an alarm system, and an engine immobilizer.

The mid-tier Php 1,228,888 Style and top-end Php 1,298,888 Alpha RX5s have advanced deceleration distribution for turn navigation, stability control, a hill-hold function, anti-roll electronic cops, and tire pressure monitoring. There's also a steering wheel return reminder that "nudges" the driver to move the steering wheel back to a position that straightens the front wheels.

Cons of the MG RX5

• The automatic transmission

Quirky is one of the most-used, politically correct adjectives to describe the seven-speed dual-clutch automatic. Several cuss words, too, based on reviews. Long story short, the MG RX5's tranny dawdles when you stomp (or even give a halfhearted prodding) on the throttle, and there's a tendency to remain in gear during upshifts.

• Only two airbags

The MG RX5  has many safety features but only provides two inflatable pillows during collisions in its Core and Style trims. Guess rear occupants aren't a priority on side impacts unless you go for the Alpha variant.

• Just Apple CarPlay

The MG RX5 can easily play your music selections if you are an iPhone user. If your smartphone, however, is Android and Android Auto-oriented, tough luck. You'll have to make do with the Bluetooth and USB ports to play music, and you'll have to rely on your network coverage for satellite navigation.

• The cream interior

The manufacturer's chosen colorway for each RX-5 can result in the door and doorsill plastics getting dirty – especially when entering the SUV while it's raining.

• The MG HS

Strange as it may be, one of the main competitors of the MG RX5 lies within the same stable. The MG HS is also a compact SUV with the same engine, and it even lies in the same price range. What makes the HS stand out is its more modern design language, more upscale interiors, and loaded feature set. The HS relegates the RX5 back a generation when it comes to design and features.

MG's entry into the compact sport-ute segment has a lot of positives. However, its negatives can be serious enough to sway buyers to other brands or even the MG HS. Given that the MG RX5 is due for minor changes, these must be implemented immediately. Otherwise, as mentioned earlier, the MG badging for the RX-5 will still be unfairly labeled as "Middling Ground."