No, it’s not a Tesla, but you could be forgiven for thinking so.

Although it looks very much like a Tesla, it is in fact MG’s new IM range of premium EVs, targeted at — you guessed it — Tesla.

MG says the IM5 (sedan) and IM6 (SUV) represent a leap forward in premium electric motoring with elevated design, technology and more. 

The vehicles have been developed jointly with the Chinese powerhouse the Alibaba Group.

IM stands for Intelligence in Motion and in Australia, the brand will be known as IM Presented by MG Motor. 

The IM5 and IM6 are powered by an 800V Hurricane motor which provides impressive performance.

In the case of the IM5 100 kWh AWD features a ground-breaking 0-100km acceleration time of 3.2 seconds.

The IM5 has a claimed range of 655km and the IM6 555km, both figures under the current WLTP testing procedure.

Both sedan and SUV can be charged from 30-80 per cent in just 15 minutes. 

Also of note the IM models are equipped with ‘bi-directional’ rear-wheel turning, offering up to 12 degrees of rear-wheel articulation.

Rear-steer is nothing new and has made an appearance from time to time over the years.

Nissan introduced the technology with the R31 Skyline back in 1985, followed by the Honda Prelude in 1987 and Mazda MX-6 in 1989.

MG says it dramatically reduces the turning circle and transforms the driving experience, making it comparable to that of a compact hatchback.

The enhanced manoeuvrability allows for effortless parking and precise navigation through tight urban environments.

At higher speeds, the rear wheels turn in harmony with the front, improving stability, cornering performance and overall handling.

IM5 and IM6 are also equipped with AI technology that elevates the driving performance.

Functions such as Rainy Night Mode and One Touch AI Chauffer use the car’s 360-degree cameras to either assist or perform tasks on the driver’s behalf. 

Centrepiece of the cabin is the sweeping 26.3-inch infotainment screen.