MG Motor Australia is preparing to revolutionize the premium electric vehicle market. The company has confirmed the arrival of its premium IM6 electric SUV, which will launch in Australian showrooms mid-year 2025. This groundbreaking vehicle represents a significant step forward for the brand’s electrification strategy.
The excitement doesn’t stop there, however. A facelifted version has already been revealed in China, complete with an innovative range-extender powertrain option. This development signals MG’s commitment to addressing range anxiety concerns among Australian consumers.
Fresh Design Language Sets New Standards
Bold Exterior Transformation
The facelifted IM6 debuts a new face for SAIC Motor’s premium EV brand, featuring distinctive sweeping headlights. The updated design showcases significant changes from its predecessor. The rounded body remains largely unchanged aft of the A-pillar, including its rather Aston Martin DBX-like rear treatment, with the big changes found up front.
The most striking update involves the lighting system. There’s now a vertical headlight assembly, though the daytime running light still continues horizontally towards where the grille would be on a combustion-powered vehicle. This creates a modern, tech-forward appearance that distinguishes it from conventional SUVs.
Impressive Proportions
Size matters in the premium SUV segment, and the IM6 delivers substantially. The LS6/IM6 is significantly larger than a Tesla Model Y, measuring 4904mm long, 1988mm wide and 1669mm tall on a 2950mm wheelbase. For comparison, the Model Y is 4792mm long on a 2890mm wheelbase. The facelifted model has grown 33mm in length, providing even more interior space.
Groundbreaking Range Extender Technology
Understanding EREV Systems
The most significant development is the introduction of Extended Range Electric Vehicle (EREV) technology. The 114kW turbocharged engine doesn’t send any power to the wheels, instead sending it to either a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) or nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery. The battery in turn powers the single 230kW rear-mounted electric motor.
This innovative approach provides the benefits of electric driving while eliminating range anxiety. The LS6 extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) has a kerb weight of 2350kg, and gives IM Motors a rival for a growing contingent of EREVs already available in the Chinese market. However, it remains unclear whether this powertrain will come to Australia initially.
Multiple Powertrain Options
Australian customers will have choices when the IM6 arrives. The pre-facelift IM6 will be offered in Australia in base guise with a 75kWh battery pack powered by a 217kW/450Nm electric motor, achieving 505km of NEDC electric range.
The flagship variants offer impressive performance capabilities. The flagship Platinum trim will be offered with either a 300kW/500Nm electric motor and 100kWh battery, or a dual-motor all-wheel drive configuration with this larger battery but total outputs of 572kW and 802Nm. Range figures are 755km and 600km, respectively, on the NEDC cycle.
Advanced Technology Features
AI-Powered Innovation
The IM6 showcases cutting-edge artificial intelligence integration. It uses artificial intelligence technology for One Touch parking features, such as the Side Parking which automatically corrects parallel parking manoeuvres and Reversing which retraces the exact route taken over the previous path.
Safety technology receives special attention with the Rainy Night Mode feature. The AI functionality extends to the Rainy Night Mode, which uses the array of exterior cameras and sensors to detect potential blind spots in the A-pillar, side and rear blind zones. This displays real-time images of pedestrians or vehicles on the 26.3-inch screen that stretches from in front of the driver across to the centre stack.
Impressive Display Technology
The interior showcases premium technology integration. There’s also a separate 10.5-inch touchscreen on the centre stack, and an available 15.5-inch passenger screen. This multi-screen setup provides comprehensive information and entertainment options for all occupants.
Four-Wheel Steering Innovation
Advanced handling capabilities distinguish the IM6 from competitors. The LS6 offers four-wheel steering, which supports a Crab Mode that allows the vehicle to move diagonally and therefore glide out of tight spaces and awkward angles. This feature proves particularly valuable in urban environments and tight parking situations.
Premium Brand Positioning
IM Motors Introduction
IM is a joint venture between MG’s parent company, SAIC and technology company Alibaba Group. It stands for Intelligence in Motion, and its vehicles aim for a premium end of the market. Locally, it will be known as IM presented by MG Motor.
The brand positioning targets affluent consumers seeking premium electric vehicles. MG Motor Australia’s CEO Peter Ciao says the new brand will offer cutting-edge innovation and elegant design, and an “uncompromising blend” of performance, refinement, and range.
Market Expectations
In Australia those prices could translate into a range that starts from around $70,000 and stretches to $95,000. We expect the IM6 SUV to be positioned from $75,000 to $90,000. This positioning places it directly against premium electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y Performance and upcoming BMW iX3.
Australian Market Impact
Competitive Landscape
The IM6 arrives at a crucial time for Australia’s electric vehicle market. MG has confirmed local pricing for its new S5 EV small electric SUV, positioning the replacement for the ZS EV as the cheapest battery-electric SUV now available in the country. The IM6 represents the brand’s premium offering alongside more affordable options.
The vehicle faces established competition but offers compelling advantages. It’s set to be positioned as both a rival for the latest Audi Q6 e-tron and next year’s BMW iX3, plus the cheaper Tesla Model Y Performance.
Launch Timeline
Australian consumers won’t wait much longer for this technology. The IM6 is due to arrive in MG Australia showrooms mid-year, as one of two models that will be released under the IM Presented by MGMotor banner in Australia in June. The other model is the IM5 sedan, providing consumers with multiple premium electric options.
Technology Specifications Deep Dive
Battery and Performance Variants
The updated LS6 offers comprehensive powertrain flexibility. Beyond the new EREV variant, the LS6 will be offered with a choice of three electric powertrains: a single-motor rear-wheel drive configuration with 245kW and an LFP battery; another with 300kW and an NMC battery; and a dual-motor all-wheel drive powertrain with 500kW and an NMC battery.
Interestingly, power figures have been adjusted from original specifications. The latter has seen its power cut, having previously produced 572kW. Kerb weight is between 2255kg and 2385kg.
Charging Capabilities
While specific Australian charging specifications await confirmation, the vehicle’s advanced electrical architecture suggests impressive charging speeds. The premium positioning and advanced battery technology indicate fast-charging capabilities that should compete with current market leaders.
Industry Context and Future Outlook
Global EREV Trend
The IM6’s range-extender option reflects growing global interest in EREV technology. Instead of relying on expensive battery packs and inadequate charging infrastructure, they use a gas engine to charge the moderately-sized battery to handle heavy loads and long distances. This approach addresses practical concerns about electric vehicle adoption.
MG’s Broader Strategy
MG Motor Australia’s COO Giles Belcher says the new release comes as MG makes other changes, including the replacement of the ZS EV model with the new MGS5 EV, and the impending launch of its first all-electric roadster, the Cyberster. This demonstrates the brand’s comprehensive electrification strategy.
The company continues expanding its electric portfolio. In 2023, MG launched its MG4 hatchback, which has helped the brand rake in nearly 10,000 sales as of the end of February 2025.
Consumer Implications
Value Proposition
The IM6 offers compelling value in the premium electric SUV segment. Its larger dimensions compared to the Tesla Model Y, combined with advanced technology features and multiple powertrain options, create strong appeal for Australian consumers seeking premium electric vehicles.
The potential range-extender option addresses one of the primary concerns about electric vehicle ownership. This technology could prove particularly valuable for Australian consumers who frequently travel long distances between cities.
Market Position
The new mid-to-large SUV (it’s 4.9m long) will also come with some of the headline tech that features with the IM5 sedan, although base and mid-spec models only come with 400-volt hardware. The powerful 900-volt electrical architecture is reserved for the flagship versions with the biggest 100kWh battery and dual-motors.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the MG IM6 be available in Australia? The IM6 is scheduled to arrive in Australian showrooms mid-year 2025, specifically in June.
Will the range extender version come to Australia? This remains unclear, as MG Australia has not confirmed whether the EREV powertrain will be offered locally initially.
How does the IM6 compare to Tesla Model Y in size? The IM6 is significantly larger, measuring 4904mm long versus the Model Y’s 4792mm length, with a longer wheelbase providing more interior space.
What is the expected price range for the IM6? Industry experts estimate the IM6 will be priced between $75,000 to $90,000 in Australia.
What technology features will be available? The IM6 includes AI-powered parking assistance, a 26.3-inch display screen, four-wheel steering with Crab Mode, and advanced safety systems.
How many powertrain options will be available? Australian customers will initially have access to multiple electric powertrains, including single-motor rear-wheel drive and dual-motor all-wheel drive configurations with different battery sizes.
The MG IM6 represents a significant evolution in electric SUV technology for the Australian market. With its fresh styling, advanced features, and potential range-extender option, it promises to challenge established premium electric vehicles while offering compelling value and innovative technology to Australian consumers.