In the future, Chinese cars will be commonplace. The Asian giant has already begun rolling out its first models in Europe. The MG ZS EV is one of them. This compact electric SUV aims to demonstrate that the Chinese automotive industry is capable of producing vehicles just as good as those from established mainstream brands already present on the continent.
Although it may not seem like it, the ZS is the second oldest model from the MG brand , a company now owned by the giant SAIC, one of the largest producers in the Chinese automotive industry. It was launched in the local market in 2017, although exports to Europe didn't begin until 2019, with a very limited number of units. Internal combustion engine versions of the MG ZS were introduced in 2022.
In 2021, the electric version arrived alongside its larger sibling, the MG EHS , undergoing a significant facelift later that year. This early update included aesthetic changes, improved technology, and increased performance and range . This brought the small electric vehicle up to date in the face of increasingly fierce competition.
Technical characteristics of the MG ZS EV
Within the SAIC automotive conglomerate, many models share a platform and development process to reduce costs and simplify production. In the specific case of the MG ZS, its development is linked to the MG GS . The all-electric version derives from this same development, adapting part of its structure to house the entire electric system.
Due to its dimensions, the ZS EV falls into the B-SUV or utility SUV segment, a very popular and in-demand market in our country. Externally, it measures 4,31 meters long, 1,81 meters wide, and 1,64 meters high— a large size within its category. Added to these dimensions is a wheelbase of 2,58 meters, allowing it to comfortably accommodate up to five passengers.
Three of the seats are located in a second row that offers somewhat cramped shoulder and legroom, where passengers taller than 1,85 meters (6'1") will experience some discomfort. As for cargo capacity, the MG ZS EV offers a trunk with a minimum capacity of 448 liters (1,500 gallons ). This volume can be increased to 1.166 liters (6,300 gallons) when the second row of seats is folded down in a 60:40 split.
Mechanical range and gearboxes of the MG ZS EV
As we've already mentioned, MG's approach to the ZS EV is for it to be a 100% electric vehicle with the advantageous DGT ZERO emissions label. The motor is located at the front, on the same axle that powers it. As part of the 2021 update, the ZS includes more options. Two versions are available: Long Range and Standard Range.
The first version features a 50,3 kWh gross capacity battery connected to a single front electric motor. It delivers 177 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque . With a consumption of 17,3 kWh per 100 kilometers, it boasts a range of 320 kilometers . The Long Range model has a 70 kWh gross capacity battery and a motor producing 156 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque . Its official consumption of 17,8 kWh/100 km allows it to offer a homologated range of 440 kilometers.
Charging is always a key consideration for electric vehicles. In this case, MG has decided on a maximum charging power of 90 kW DC and up to 11 kW AC . With these figures, the MG ZS's charging times range from 23,4 hours to reach 100% using a standard household outlet, to 40 minutes to go from 0 to 80% using a 90 kW fast charger.
Equipment of the MG ZS EV
Just like the EHS, the ZS EV's interior is sure to surprise many. Far from the typical image of a Chinese car, the reality is that the cabin meets all European quality standards , which are said to be the most demanding in the world. The perceived quality is good thanks to well-selected materials and fit and finish that, for the most part, offer a pleasant feel and an optimal sense of durability.
As is typical for the brand, the equipment packages are very limited, restricting customer customization options. The range is limited to just two levels: Comfort and Luxury . Beyond these, it's impossible to add or remove equipment, limiting the possibilities to a color palette of only five different shades, at a cost of 753 euros.
In terms of equipment, the MG ZS EV improves its offering with the 2021 facelift, now featuring cutting-edge elements. It comes very well-equipped as standard, although the top-of-the-line trim level includes features such as: digital instrumentation, a rearview camera, an electrically adjustable driver's seat, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, mobile connectivity, and the MG Pilot safety package.
The MG ZS EV in video
The MG ZS according to Euro NCAP
As required, the MG ZS underwent the corresponding Euro NCAP crash tests in 2019. In these tests, the Chinese electric SUV achieved excellent ratings, earning a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating . The results by category were as follows: 9 for adult occupant protection, 8,5 for child occupant protection, 6,4 for pedestrian vulnerability, and 7,0 for driver assistance systems. These ratings remain valid following the update at the end of 2021.
MG ZS EV rivals
The Chinese know exactly what they're doing. Although their experience in the automotive world isn't as extensive as that of other European or Japanese brands, they know that SUVs are in demand in Europe. While the EHS is offered in the main segment, the C-SUV, the MG ZS EV belongs to the second most important market today, the B-SUV . This means its list of rivals is long and impressive, but in this case, we must look at models with fully electric versions. This feature narrows the competition down to just a few models: Peugeot 2008 , Opel Mokka , Hyundai KONA , DS 3 Crossback , KIA e-Soul , Lexus UX , and Mazda MX-30.
Highlight
- Competitive price
- Standard equipment
- ride comfort
To improve
- Closed mechanical range
- Few customization options
- Autonomy
MG ZS EV Price
In the subcompact SUV segment, one of the main selling points is price. Being exclusively electric, the ZS significantly increases costs. The starting price for the MG ZS EV is €33.690 . This figure corresponds to a model with standard range and Comfort trim. The most expensive model in the family is the long-range ZS EV with Luxury trim; in that case, the starting price is €40.490, without any offers or promotions.
