MG is a brand with a long heritage. In fact, in 2024, MG celebrated its centennial; yes, they are 100 years old. Although the company changed hands in 2007 to become part of SAIC Motor (Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation), it has by no means abandoned the spirit of the British marque. We were recently invited to Shanghai to not only get a better understanding of MG's scale but also sample a few of the products headed to local shores.
Related: MG headed back to SA!
One of the first products to land locally is the MG ZS, a compact SUV. While this model will be new to the local market, has been available in select global markets since 2018. With over a million units sold globally, it is safe to say that the MG ZS is tried and tested.
Exterior
Upfront, the hexagonal grille is flanked by projector headlamps and LED daytime running lights, while down the side, customers can expect 17-inch alloy wheels to fill the wheel wells. Considering its age, it doesn't quite have the very modern design language of stablemates such as the HS or even the Cyberster flagship. Still, it presents itself as modern amongst many local competitors.
Interior
The interior is well-crafted and even offers some sporty carbon fibre-inspired trim around the 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The overall upholstery has a high-quality feel, with the Comfort derivative getting a cloth interior and the Luxury trim fitted with leatherette.
The driver still gets analogue instruments; however, a screen positioned centrally between them still provides additional vehicle information required by the driver. The ample space for both front and rear occupants was evident on our first drives, perfect for a small family.
Safety
MG also ensured that the ZS was a safe vehicle for its customers. Driving aids include electronic stability control, ABS brakes with electronic brake assist, a hill launch assist system, and a tyre pressure monitoring system. Customers can also expect items such as six airbags, front and side units for the driver and front passenger, two curtain airbags that extend to the rear of the vehicle, and rear ISOFIX.
Drivetrain
Both the Comfort and Luxury variants of the MG ZS will come with the 1.5-litre petrol engine that sends 84kW and 150Nm of torque to the front wheels via a 4-speed automatic transmission. While the ZS only has a claimed top speed of 195 km/h, MG says that it should return an average fuel consumption figure of around 7.1 L / 100km.
The Drive
As mentioned earlier, the MG ZS has a spacious cabin, and getting into the model is a breeze. After adjusting the seating position, we were off on the test track. While the acceleration isn't whiplash-inducing, it does get off the line quickly. The suspension is very compliant, returning a nice and soft ride. However, it is still dynamic enough in the corners when needed.
The exterior noise levels are good, and there are almost no noticeable vibrations while driving. While we didn't get enough time to see if we could achieve the claimed average fuel consumption figure, the engine and gearbox instil confidence that one would get close. The gearbox is definitely programmed for fuel efficiency, but it is responsive enough for when you might want to accelerate quicker.
Overall the driving experience we got was good, but we look forward to spending some more time behind the wheel on South African roads and at Gauteng's elevation to get an idea of what the engine and gearbox can do.
Service and Warranty
Included in the price of the MG ZS is a 5-year / 200 000 km vehicle warranty, a 7-year / unlimited-kilometre engine warranty and a 5-year / 60 000km service plan.
Price
| MG ZS 1.5 Comfort automatic | from R 289 900 |
| MG ZS 1.5 Luxury automatic | from R 309 900 |
*Pricing indicated in this article was correct at the time of writing, however, can change at any time and without notice.
