MG ZS

The Chinese automotive industry has grown a lot in recent years. With great commercial expansion, Europe is experiencing the arrival of new brands and models. Although MG It is one of the most classic firms in England, its incorporation into the SAIC Motor Group has allowed it to experience a new youth. He MG ZS Hybrid+ It is the most economical model in the SUV segment of the family to arrive in Spain, enjoying elements and a particular design.

We have tested this car:

Test MG ZS 1.5 VTi 106 CV Luxury (with video)MG ZS

Given the new, and increasingly demanding, European emissions regulations, MG Motor set out to exclusively launch electrified vehicles. Models like the MG EHS with PHEV system or the MG Marvel R which is pure electric helps its better image. Now, with the official launch of the The new ZS Hybrid+, coming in autumn 2024, is presented as a purely hybrid C-SUV with a power output of close to 200 hp. In this way, it breaks with its immediate predecessor, although it still maintains the presence of the electric version, the MG ZSEV.

Technical characteristics of the MG ZS Hybrid+

MG ZS Hybrid+

The SAIC Group has a long list of models with which to share technologies in order to reduce production costs and sell cheaper cars. The new MG ZS Hybrid+ has been developed on a new platform inherited from the 3 Hybrid+. It is a multipurpose base capable of hosting different mechanical versions, although it is especially designed for new energy vehicles (hybrid and electric).

In terms of its measurements, the ZS Hybrid+ can be perfectly located within the increasingly crowded family of European C-SUVs, the fastest growing segment in the market. Its external dimensions reach 4,43 meters long, 1,82 meters wide and 1,63 meters high.. Very balanced measurements to which we have to add a wheelbase of 2,61 meters.

This battle allows you to offer a cabin for a maximum of five passengers, three of them installed in a rear row of correct space. Regarding load capacity, The trunk of the new MG ZS Hybrid+ announces a minimum volume of 358 liters. To expand it, simply fold down the second row of seats, although for now the brand does not indicate the maximum figure. If before it was the most generous in the B segment, now it is average for the C-SUV.

Mechanical range and gearboxes of the MG ZS Hybrid+

The previous generation of the ZS had its range divided into two. On the one hand there is the ZS (just) that had a pair of gasoline engines (1.5 naturally aspirated VTI-Tech with 106 HP of power and 1.0 T-GDI three-cylinder turbo with 111 HP of power). On the other hand there is the ZS EV which by itself formed an independent offering since it offers a 100% electric powertrain divided into two power levels: 156 HP and 177 HP.

However, the new generation of ZS Hybrid+ (at least at the start of its launch), it is only available with a conventional hybrid motorization, inherited from his brother the MG3It is composed of a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol engine combined with a front electric motor. Together they generate a maximum output of 194 horsepower and 425 Nm of torque..

The electrical part of the hybrid system is formed by a NCM lithium ion battery with 1,83 kWh capacity and 350 volts. It is recharged through a 45 kW high-efficiency generator that collects energy during deceleration phases and when EV mode is forced. Regarding its management, MG trusts in the three-speed transmission and automatic operation that we have already known in the small 3 Hybrid+ and that seems to offer good performance.

Equipment of the MG ZS

The renewal of the MG ZS Hybrid+ has been a breath of fresh air in its cabin. Now It is a very pleasant space with a medium quality that generates a correct feeling of quality. This breaks with the popular culture of the poor presentation of Asian models. Added to this is the improvement in connectivity technology and active driving aids with innovations such as the MG Pilot system.

The MG equipment range is structured into three levels: Standard, Comfort and Luxury.. The differences between them correspond mainly to the technological section because the MG Pilot security system is standard. On an aesthetic level there are also differences, although they are nuanced, since they are limited to the use of different designs of alloy wheels as well as color combinations for the body. However, its standard equipment is extensive.

Thus, the access version has Full LED front and rear lighting, 12,3-inch central touch screen with navigation and connected services, 7-inch digital cockpit, rain and light sensor, automatic headlights, rear parking sensor, rear view camera and keyless entry. The top-of-the-range Luxury version adds 18-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery, electric seats and a 360º camera.

Test MG ZS on video

The MG ZS according to EuroNCAP

The first, and until now current, iteration of the MG ZS achieved the maximum score in EuroNCAP. Its 5 stars made it one of the safest B-SUVs with high grades. For example, it obtained a 9 in protection for adult passengers, an 8,5 for child passengers or a 7 in active driving aids. For now, the new delivery has not been tested by the autonomous body, although it is expected that it will revalidate its 5 stars in global calculation.

MG ZS rivals

When evaluating the ZS's direct rivals, it must be taken into account that by size it is in the C-SUV segment and that by price it will be with the B-SUVs. Therefore, the most popular rivals against whom you will have to compete for sales and commercial image will be more the latter than the former. Hence we cite, among others, the Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008, Opel Mokka, Seat Arona, Kia Stonic, Hyundai Kona, Ford Puma o Volkswagen T-Cross, among others.

Highlight

European taste design
equipment possibilities
Powerful hybrid powertrain

To improve

Poor mechanical range
Little customization
He still has to improve his image to be a leader

MG ZS price

The ZS has always stood out among drivers for its reasonable price. It is a car without great pretensions that in its latest generation improves obvious aspects such as equipment, design and efficiency. The price, therefore, increases. The basic price of the new MG ZS is 22.990 euros, without offers or promotionsThe most expensive version, the ZS Hybrid+ Luxury, is offered from a minimum value of 26.990 euros, without associated offers or promotions.