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The Roewe Ei5 is an electric station wagon that offers a spacious design and affordability. Starting at $21,920, it undercuts competitors like the Nissan Leaf ($31,600) and Hyundai Kona Electric ($35,000). With a driving range of up to 311 miles and a practical cargo capacity of 479 liters (expandable to 1,367 liters), the Ei5 is a budget-friendly option for families and businesses. However, its slower DC charging (50 kW max) and basic interior quality may deter some buyers.
Key Features:
- Price: $21,920–$23,930
- Range: Up to 311 miles (61.1 kWh battery)
- Cargo Space: 479–1,367 liters
- Charging: 80% in 30 minutes (DC fast charging)
- Power: 184 hp motor, 0–62 mph in 8.3 seconds
- Extras: Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) tech for external power (2.2 kW)
The Ei5 balances practicality and cost, but its limited charging speed and basic features may not suit those seeking premium finishes or advanced tech.
Roewe Ei5 vs Competitors: Price, Range, and Specifications Comparison
1. Roewe Ei5
Powertrain and Battery Performance
The Roewe Ei5 is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor that drives the front wheels. In its 2021 update, the motor saw a boost in power from 115 hp to 184 hp (135 kW), with the top speed climbing from 93 mph (150 km/h) to 115 mph (185 km/h). It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in just 8.3 seconds, making it a strong contender in its category .
The car comes with two battery options: a 61.1 kWh Ternary Lithium (NMC) battery offering up to 311 miles of range, and a 52.5 kWh battery providing 261 miles of range. DC fast charging allows the 2021 model to go from 30% to 80% charge in just 30 minutes – an improvement over the 45-minute charge time of earlier versions. A full AC charge takes approximately 9.5 hours. The Ei5 also features a one-speed fixed ratio gearbox and regenerative braking, achieving an energy consumption of about 13.3 kWh per 100 km (roughly 21.4 kWh per 100 miles) .
Interior Space and Practicality
As a station wagon, the Ei5 is designed to offer plenty of utility for both families and businesses. The trunk provides 479 liters (16.9 cubic feet) of cargo space, which expands to 1,367 liters (48.3 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. Thanks to its dedicated electric chassis, the battery pack is positioned to avoid intruding into the cabin, resulting in a flat floor and ample legroom. Rear passengers as tall as 6’4" (1.93 m) can sit comfortably. The interior also boasts over 30 storage compartments for smaller items.
To enhance convenience, the cabin includes a PM2.5 air filtration system, negative ion generators, and a UVC deep ultraviolet sterilization system for the air conditioner. The Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) feature adds further practicality, allowing up to 2.2 kW of external power to run small appliances or tools directly from the car .
Driving Dynamics and Features
The Ei5 balances its powertrain and spacious interior with smooth driving dynamics tailored for everyday use. The chassis combines MacPherson front suspension with a torsion beam rear suspension. Features like Hill Start Assist, AutoHold, and regenerative braking make it well-suited for stop-and-go traffic and hilly roads.
Safety and convenience are also a priority. The car includes an integrated dashcam, a rearview camera, and tire pressure monitoring. The "Banma" intelligent system (Zebra V3.1.0) provides OTA updates, voice control, and real-time navigation. A built-in 4G Wi-Fi hotspot and remote car start let you pre-cool the cabin on hot days. For long-distance trips, the vehicle is equipped with a donut spare tire.
2022 MG5 SW EV (Roewe Ei5) Excite (Long Range) – Start up and full vehicle tour
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Pros and Cons
The Roewe Ei5 delivers a budget-friendly option for buyers seeking an electric wagon, though it comes with its share of trade-offs. Here’s a closer look at the pros and cons to help you decide if it suits your needs:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing between $21,920–$23,930, significantly less expensive than the Nissan Leaf ($31,600) and Hyundai Kona Electric ($35,000) | Limited DC charging speed, capped at 50 kW, while competitors offer up to 100 kW |
| Solid range of up to 311 miles (501 km), easing concerns about long-distance travel | Build quality issues, including uneven panel alignment, lightweight doors, and extensive use of hard plastics in the interior |
| Practical wagon design with cargo space ranging from 16.9 to 48.3 cubic feet, ideal for various storage needs | Basic safety features missing on standard trims, such as lane-keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking |
| Vehicle-to-load (V2L) functionality, supplying 2.2 kW of power for tools or as a backup during outages | Handling struggles under heavy loads, as the rear suspension may sag, affecting clearance and steering |
| Quick DC charging achieves 80% in 30 minutes, though constrained by the 50 kW limit | Outdated infotainment system, with poorly placed ports and no physical buttons for key functions like seat heating |
While these points highlight the trade-offs, they also emphasize the Ei5’s practicality and affordability for those willing to overlook some performance and feature limitations.
The base model, equipped with a 115 hp motor, may feel underpowered compared to rivals. However, the upgraded 184 hp version provides a much-needed performance boost. Earlier models with air-cooled 35 kWh batteries faced challenges in extreme heat, but post-2019 versions with water-cooled 52.5 kWh and 61.1 kWh batteries handle temperature shifts far more effectively.
If you’re prioritizing utility and cost savings over premium finishes or cutting-edge technology, the Roewe Ei5 offers a compelling option. Its practical design and affordability stand out, even if its interior and charging capabilities fall short of some newer competitors.
Conclusion
The Roewe Ei5 stands out as a practical option for families and small businesses looking for an electric station wagon. It offers a budget-friendly alternative to models like the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Kona Electric while delivering impressive cargo flexibility – providing 479 liters of trunk space that expands to 1,367 liters when the rear seats are folded down. Its V2L feature also proves useful, especially in regions where power outages are common.
That said, there are areas for improvement. Some users have pointed out that the infotainment system could be more user-friendly, and the ride can feel less comfortable on uneven roads. Additionally, the vehicle’s lower ground clearance may not be ideal for rougher terrains.
Despite these limitations, the Ei5 offers strong value for those who need a spacious, low-cost electric vehicle. Whether you’re a family seeking a reliable daily driver or a business in need of an affordable urban fleet vehicle, the Ei5 delivers on practicality. With a 4.6/5 user rating, it’s clear that many find it a worthwhile choice – so long as you’re okay with its few trade-offs.
FAQs
What makes the Roewe Ei5 a good choice for families and businesses?
The Roewe Ei5 offers a blend of practicality and efficiency, making it a great fit for both families and businesses. With its roomy interior and generous rear cargo space, this electric station wagon is ready to handle everything from kids’ sports equipment and grocery hauls to business essentials. It’s designed to adapt seamlessly to your daily needs.
With a driving range of up to 261 miles per charge (depending on the battery configuration), it’s well-suited for commutes and longer drives. Even better, it recharges quickly – reaching 80% in about 40 minutes – so you can get back on the road with minimal waiting. Priced at approximately $22,000, it’s an accessible entry into the electric vehicle market. Add in lower maintenance costs and dependable performance, and the Roewe Ei5 becomes a practical, budget-friendly choice for anyone ready to switch to electric.
How long does it take to charge the Roewe Ei5, and what is its driving range?
The Roewe Ei5 delivers a solid driving range of around 311 miles (500 km) on a full charge. When using a DC fast charger, it can regain power in roughly 40 minutes, adding approximately 12–13 miles of range per minute. For those charging at home with an AC outlet, a full recharge takes about 9.5 hours, making it convenient for overnight charging or longer stops. This flexibility suits a variety of driving and charging needs.
What makes the Roewe Ei5 a practical choice for everyday use?
The Roewe Ei5 is built with everyday practicality in mind. Its spacious 5-door station wagon design comfortably seats the entire family while providing a cargo capacity of 16.9 cu ft – perfect for groceries, luggage, or work gear. Powered by an electric drivetrain, the Ei5 offers a choice between a 52.5 kWh or 61.1 kWh battery, delivering a range of up to 261 miles per charge. Need to recharge quickly? With DC fast-charging, you can get to 80% in just 40 minutes, while a full charge at home takes about 9.5 hours using a standard charger.
Safety and convenience are at the forefront with advanced driver-assist features like traffic-light recognition, lane-change assist, and tire-pressure monitoring. The Ei5 also comes equipped with thoughtful extras, such as a heat pump for efficient cabin heating and a V2L (vehicle-to-load) function, which lets you power small appliances directly from the car. Whether you’re planning a family outing or running a small business, the Roewe Ei5 delivers versatility and functionality to fit your needs.
