THE MG5 EV is the company's all-electric estate which was updated significantly at the end of last year.

It is now slightly more expensive than before, but the changes make the extra cost worthwhile as the car is now better looking and has more tech. The good news is it retains all of the previous cars good points.

The MG5 EV is the only full electric estate on sale and so the Chinese-owned brand is attractive to those who want a load-lugger without going down the SUV route.

Styling changes combine to give the estate a more modern sharp look at the front while the rear has also been improved. New LED light clusters front and rear, a slimmer grille and deeper bumpers give it a sporty look and more presence.

The interior has also had a makeover with the introduction of a fresh dashboard and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system with the brand's iSMART connected services tech.

The MG5 is still cheaper than the opposition with the top-spec £33,495 Trophy Long Range model I sampled including features like a 360-degree parking camera, heated front seats, tinted windows, automatic wipers, climate control and 17-inch alloys on top of the already generous level of kit fitted to the entry-level SE Long Range version which costs £30,995.

For that you get MG Pilot driver assistance tech (adaptive cruise with lane centring, pedestrian detection and collision warning, autonomous emergency braking and auto high-beam assist), that 10.25-inch multimedia set-up with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a seven-inch digital dash, air-conditioning, full keyless go and vehicle-to-load charging so you can power external devices.

The cabin offers lots of space for four adults and it is light and uncluttered, while the materials used have also been improved to hike quality.

The 61.1kWh battery offers a range up to 250 miles and with DC charging at up to 87kW a 10-80 per cent top-up can take just 35 minutes. Plug in to a 7kW wallbox at home and a full charge will take 10 hours,

In the real world of mixed driving you can expect to get more like 200 miles and less if you drive the car hard or have to deal with cold weather conditions.

With 153bhp on tap the front-mounted motor is good for a 7.7-second 0-62mph time and there is enough grunt to have some fun.

The steering is light but accurate and the MG5 feels well planted.The estate does not ride as well as its new MG4 sibling and it can feel a bit twitchy over bumpy surfaces but the suspension does deal well with most conditions.

On the motorway the car cruises nicely and there is little motor or wind noise. Passengers will enjoy the generous space and good visibility and the driver can select from three driving modes, Eco, Comfort and Sport at the touch of a switch.

The MG5 is a practical family choice with a decent 479-litre boot on offer before you drop the rear seats and the large tailgate makes it easy to access.

For peace of mind MG offers a generous seven-year warranty and with added style, technology and safety features the estate makes a good case for itself.