The all-new MG ZS hybrid has landed with fresh styling and an enticing price tag. Here’s a whistlestop tour of its key upgrades.
As a regular on the UK’s top 10 best-sellers list, MG’s original ZS was popular for its alluring blend of practicality, strong standard equipment, and, of course, that irresistibly low price. However, we think this new second-generation MG ZS Hybrid could take the model to even greater heights. Here’s five reasons why.
1. The new Hybrid+ is powerful and efficient
From launch the new ZS will be available with just one powertrain: a 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid – but that’s no bad thing. Borrowed from its smaller MG3 sibling, the setup offers a respectable 193 bhp and a sub-9 second 0-60 mph dash. The 55.4 mpg combined fuel economy is more likely to sway most crossover buyers, though, with a low 115g/km emissions figure serving as a welcome bonus.
2. There’s a sophisticated new look
Where the old model’s insipid styling was something you could overlook rather than admire, the new MG ZS has far greater kerb appeal. The front end looks to have undergone the biggest makeover, with a sharper grille, thinner lights and new air intakes offering a sportier feel. We also think the exterior proportions are much improved, with less dowdy-looking alloys adding the final touch.
Image credit: MG
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3. The new MG ZS is more practical than many rivals
Pop the rear hatch and you’ll find a useful 443-litre boot — rising to 1,457 litres with the rear seats stowed away. That means you’ll be able to cram more of life’s trappings into the MG ZS than Nissan’s Juke, Vauxhall’s Mokka, Hyundai’s Bayon, and Honda’s HRV. However, the new boot is marginally smaller than before, meaning it’s still beaten by Ford’s Puma and Dacia’s Duster for outright capacity.
4. The ZS Trophy is generously equipped
Whether you opt for the base model SE or the range-topping Trophy, MG gives you plenty of standard kit. Even entry-level ZSs get the firm’s proprietary MG Pilot safety suite — including adaptive cruise, emergency braking with pedestrian and bicycle detection, lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, blind spot detection, lane departure warning, and much more. LED headlights, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a rear-view camera, and keyless entry, are also gratis.
Looking for all the bells and whistles? For a £2,500 supplement, Trophy spec adds genuinely upmarket features like a 360-degree camera and a heated steering wheel.
Image credit: MG
5. The MG ZS Hybrid is cheaper than Ford’s Puma MHEV
Bargain prices have always been one of MG’s major calling cards, and the new MG ZS Hybrid is no different: the range starts from just £22,000. Aside from Dacia’s extraordinarily cheap Duster, you’ll struggle to find a hybridised crossover at a similar price point. However, if that still sounds a bit steep, MG has announced that an even cheaper, pure petrol model will be joining the ranks later. A full EV is also set to follow, though that will likely command a figure in the region of £30,000.
Looking to make the upgrade? You won’t need to wait long; order books are now open with the first cars set to arrive in October 2024.
Do you think the all-new MG ZS Hybrid can rise to the top of the UK sales charts? Let us know if you’re tempted by this Chinese-made crossover.
Hero image credit: MG
