Before buying a Tesla Model Y, take a look at MG’s new 27,000 euro “luxury SUV” with a range of 782 km.
15/09/2026 10:00
Updated to
15/09/2026 10:00
The Chinese electric SUV market shows no signs of slowing down, and SAIC is making another move with its premium brand IM Motors. The company has opened pre-orders for the new generation of the LS6, a model that was already one of its bestsellers and now arrives with updates focused primarily on mechanics and dynamic performance. Its stated goal is to compete with the Tesla Model Y, which has long been the best-selling electric SUV in the country.
The figure that best captures the interest this car has generated is this: over 8,000 reservations within the first 45 minutes after the presale event. This is no small achievement in a saturated market where it also competes with the Zeekr 7X. The original LS6 was launched in 2023, and an extended-range version followed in 2025, so this refresh comes at a critical time to maintain the brand’s sales momentum. IM has already acknowledged its arrival in Europe.
A chassis inspired by aviation
The major innovation of the new LS6 lies not in the screen or software, but beneath the chassis. IM Motors has equipped it with a fully wire-controlled frame, where steering, braking, and traction control are managed electronically rather than through traditional mechanical connections. The brand compares this technology directly to aircraft’s fly-by-wire systems, a term they use to convey the idea of precision and immediate response.
This is complemented by a four-wheel steering system capable of turning up to 18 degrees in either direction. The practical result is a low-speed turning radius of just 4.79 meters—a remarkably tight figure for an SUV of this size (4.94 meters long, 1.99 meters wide, and 1.67 meters high), which greatly facilitates maneuvering in urban areas or when parking.
Three versions and a battery built for everyday use
The pre-order starts with three trims: Max, Pro Max, and Ultra, priced at 209,900 yuan (around 27,000 euros), 229,900 yuan (near 29,500 euros), and 264,900 yuan (approximately 34,000 euros). It’s important to note that these are pre-order prices and do not include an additional incentive: those who pay a refundable deposit of 2,000 yuan (256 euros) can receive a purchase credit of 5,000 yuan (642 euros) if they confirm their order at the official launch.
The Max and Pro Max versions feature a rear-wheel drive setup, with batteries of 76 kWh and 93 kWh respectively. This results in CLTC range of 650 kilometers and 782 kilometers, and 0 to 100 km/h acceleration times of 6.4 and 5.4 seconds. These figures are sufficient for demanding family use without venturing into extreme performance territory.
For those seeking higher performance, the Ultra variant offers a different approach with all-wheel drive powered by two motors and a 103 kWh battery. Its CLTC range is 750 kilometers, slightly lower than that of the Pro Max despite the larger battery, which is logical given the extra power consumption from the two motors. In exchange, its 0 to 100 km/h acceleration time drops to 3.48 seconds, a figure typical of a sports car rather than a family SUV.
A cabin designed for comfort
While the focus of this update is on the mechanical aspects, the interior has not been neglected either. For a limited time, IM Motors is offering a B&O sound system, a 4D massage driver’s seat, a 15.6-inch entertainment screen for the passenger, and a refrigerator with heating and cooling functions accessible from both sides as free upgrades. These features reinforce IM Motors’ strategy of attracting family buyers by combining precise handling with onboard comfort. The LS6 could be one of the first IM Motors models to reach Europe once MG finally opens orders.