MG confirms IM brand for NZ

MG Motor has confirmed it will introduce its new IM6 electric SUV to New Zealand from November 2025, with the model set to sit above the MG4 and ZS EV as the brand’s first entry into the premium end of the market.

New sub-brand for MG

The IM6 will be the debut vehicle from “IM Presented by MG Motor,” a sub-brand created as part of a joint venture between MG parent company SAIC, ZJ Hi Tech and Alibaba. IM — short for “Intelligence in Motion” — has been positioned overseas as a more technology-led, premium offering compared to MG’s mainstream line-up.

New Zealand will be among the first international markets outside China to receive the model, after MG’s local dealer network lobbied for its inclusion. MG Motor Australia and New Zealand chief executive Peter Ciao said feedback from dealers was a decisive factor.

“There has been an outstanding response to the new model from the New Zealand dealer group who viewed it, so we have decided to launch the IM6 in New Zealand as well,” Ciao said.

Performance and range

Three specifications will be available, starting with the rear-wheel-drive Premium at $66,900 plus on-road costs. It features a 75kWh LFP battery, 217kW of power and a claimed 450km WLTP range.

The mid-tier Platinum uses a larger 100kWh battery and develops 300kW, with up to 555km WLTP range. At the top of the line-up, the dual-motor Performance version offers 572kW and 802Nm, good for a 0–100km/h time of 3.4 seconds.

All versions feature 800V charging architecture, with the Platinum and Performance capable of adding 300km of range in just over 15 minutes.

Technology focus

The IM6 is built on what MG calls its Digital Chassis platform, integrating steering, braking, suspension and power delivery. Four-wheel steering is standard across the range, including a rear-wheel turning system with up to 12 degrees of articulation. This cuts the turning circle to 5.09m, making the SUV more manoeuvrable in city driving.

Higher trims also add air suspension and adaptive damping, while assisted driving technology developed with Chinese firm Momenta underpins its “IM AD” system. MG says the system has been adapted to New Zealand conditions, including performance on poorly marked roads and in complex parking scenarios.

Cabin and features

Inside, the SUV offers a panoramic sunroof, a large 26.3-inch infotainment display, luxury seating and a 20-speaker audio system. A 2,950mm wheelbase delivers more rear legroom than most mid-size SUVs, while accessories can be clipped in place using integrated magnets throughout the cabin.

The IM6 also connects to MG’s iSMART app, which allows owners to monitor charging, track the vehicle and plan routes remotely.

Market positioning

The introduction of IM marks a significant shift for MG in New Zealand, moving it beyond its reputation as a budget EV brand and into direct competition with the likes of Tesla, Polestar, and BYD’s higher-end models.

IM Global CEO Liu Tao said the company sees New Zealand as an important test market. “It is exciting to be launching IM Presented by MG Motor in New Zealand. We know local drivers will appreciate our carefully crafted balance of exceptional performance, premium finishes and technology,” he said.

The IM6’s arrival adds yet another option in a market that has rapidly expanded with new Chinese electric vehicles in recent years, reflecting how quickly the competitive landscape is changing for local buyers.