1. Vehicle Overview
The MG ZS, introduced in 2017, is the brand’s best-selling small crossover, available in both petrol and fully electric (ZS EV) versions. It offers affordable family motoring, SUV practicality, and MG’s trademark 7-year warranty, making it a strong value proposition in the crowded subcompact crossover segment.
By 2025, the MG ZS continues in its refreshed second-generation guise (facelifted in 2021) with improved design, infotainment, efficiency, and EV range. It’s offered as:
MG ZS (Petrol) – Affordable small SUV with 1.5L or 1.0L turbo engines
MG ZS EV – All-electric version with strong range and practicality
Together, they appeal to both traditional buyers and those making their first step into electric mobility.
2. Key Specifications
MG ZS Petrol
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engines | 1.5L naturally aspirated (106 hp) • 1.0L turbo (111 hp) |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual / 6-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive (FWD) |
| 0–100 km/h | 10.9–12.5 s |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h |
| Fuel Economy (Combined) | 6.5–7.0 L/100 km (40–44 mpg) |
| CO₂ Emissions | 140–160 g/km |
| Boot Capacity | 448 L (expandable to 1,375 L) |
MG ZS EV
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Powertrain | Single electric motor (front-mounted) |
| Battery Options | 51 kWh Standard Range • 72.6 kWh Long Range |
| Power / Torque | 176 hp / 280 Nm |
| Transmission | Single-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| 0–100 km/h | 8.2 s |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h |
| Range (WLTP) | 320 km (Standard) / 440 km (Long Range) |
| Charging (DC Fast) | Up to 92 kW (10–80% ≈ 40 min) |
| Charging (AC) | 7 kW single-phase / 11 kW three-phase |
| Boot Capacity | 448 L (same as petrol) |
3. Exterior Design
The ZS blends urban practicality with a touch of sophistication. The 2021 facelift gave it a sharper, more modern appearance shared by both petrol and EV variants:
Signature “Starlight” grille (closed-off for EV version)
Slim LED headlights and dynamic indicators
Revised bumpers and chrome accents
17-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels
Roof rails and sculpted body lines
The ZS EV distinguishes itself with a body-colored front panel hiding the charging port and blue trim elements. Compact dimensions make it ideal for city use while maintaining SUV road presence.
4. Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the MG ZS offers one of the most spacious cabins in its class, paired with solid materials and easy-to-use controls.
Highlights include
10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen with smartphone mirroring
7-inch digital driver display (Trophy trims)
Soft-touch dashboard surfaces with stitching details
Heated front seats and leather-style upholstery (on higher trims)
Ample rear legroom and high roofline for comfort
Panoramic “Sky Roof” sunroof available on Trophy trim
It’s a bright, airy, and practical cabin — especially appealing for small families and first-time SUV buyers.
5. Features & Infotainment
Both petrol and EV versions feature MG’s iSMART connectivity suite:
10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
Bluetooth and DAB radio
MG iSMART app (on EV) for remote climate control, charging, and location tracking
Navigation with live traffic data (Trophy trim)
USB-A and USB-C ports for front and rear passengers
360° camera and rear parking sensors
The system is intuitive and well-integrated, with simple menus and crisp graphics.
6. Safety & Ratings
The ZS earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating (for the pre-2021 version) and continues to offer excellent safety equipment across trims.
Standard and available features include
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
Lane Keep Assist & Lane Departure Warning
Adaptive Cruise Control (EV only)
Traffic Jam Assist (EV)
Blind Spot Monitoring (Trophy trims)
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Six airbags and ISOFIX anchors
The MG Pilot safety suite ensures strong active safety for both combustion and electric versions.
7. Driving Performance
The petrol ZS prioritizes comfort and simplicity — easy steering, light controls, and good visibility make it ideal for urban use. The 1.0L turbo engine offers a bit more punch, especially with the 6-speed automatic.
The ZS EV, meanwhile, provides smooth, instant acceleration typical of an electric powertrain. The ride is comfortable, and the cabin remains impressively quiet. Its regenerative braking system is easy to modulate, and three drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) adjust power delivery for efficiency or response.
In both versions, the ZS focuses on ease and comfort rather than sporty handling — exactly what most buyers in this segment prefer.
8. Fuel Efficiency / EV Range
Petrol Models
1.5L: 42 mpg (6.7 L/100 km)
1.0T: 44 mpg (6.4 L/100 km)
Electric Models
| Standard Range (51 kWh) | Up to 320 km WLTP |
| Long Range (72.6 kWh) | Up to 440 km WLTP |
Charging
92 kW DC: 10–80% in 40 minutes
7–11 kW AC: 7–9 hours full charge
The ZS EV’s real-world range typically matches its claims, making it ideal for both commuting and weekend trips.
9. Practicality & Everyday Usability
| Boot space | 448 L (1,375 L seats folded) |
Flat load bay and low loading lip
Spacious rear seats — comfortable for two adults
Multiple storage compartments throughout
Roof rails rated for 75 kg load
Few small SUVs offer this level of practicality, particularly in the electric version, which retains the same cargo space as the petrol model.
10. Warranty & Maintenance
MG’s unbeatable aftersales package continues to be a huge draw:
7-year / 80,000-mile warranty (vehicle and battery)
| Service intervals | 12 months or 15,000 miles |
Affordable MG Service Plans available across Europe and the UK
This warranty outshines most competitors, enhancing long-term ownership confidence.
11. Price & Value for Money
Approximate pricing (UK & Europe, 2025)
| Model | Powertrain | Range (WLTP) | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| MG ZS 1.5 Petrol | 1.5L, 106 hp | £18,000 (€21,000) | |
| MG ZS 1.0T Petrol Auto | 1.0L Turbo, 111 hp | £20,500 (€24,000) | |
| MG ZS EV SE (51 kWh) | Electric | 320 km | £29,500 (€33,000) |
| MG ZS EV Trophy (72.6 kWh) | Electric | 440 km | £32,500 (€36,500) |
Few cars offer this level of equipment, space, and range for the money — especially with a 7-year warranty included.
12. Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Powertrain | Range / Economy | Boot | Price (approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MG ZS EV (72.6 kWh) | Electric | 440 km | 448 L | £32,500 |
| Hyundai Kona Electric (65 kWh) | Electric | 480 km | 332 L | £38,000 |
| Peugeot e-2008 | Electric | 406 km | 434 L | £37,000 |
| Renault Captur 1.6 E-Tech | Hybrid | 4.8 L/100 km | 422 L | £30,000 |
| Kia Stonic 1.0T | Petrol | 6.0 L/100 km | 352 L | £22,000 |
For the price, the MG ZS offers class-leading practicality and affordability, whether petrol or electric.
13. Pros & Cons
Pros
Excellent value for money
Spacious, comfortable cabin
Long 7-year warranty
EV version offers strong range for the price
Easy, relaxed driving manners
Cons
Petrol engines lack refinement and punch
Handling is soft and uninvolving
Some cabin plastics feel basic
No AWD option
14. Overall Rating
4.5 / 5
15. Final Verdict
The 2025 MG ZS remains one of the smartest buys in the small SUV market. Whether you choose petrol or electric, it delivers practicality, comfort, and unbeatable value wrapped in a stylish, user-friendly package.
The ZS EV in particular stands out as one of the best-value electric SUVs on sale, combining strong range, low running costs, and generous equipment with family-friendly versatility.
If you want a reliable, affordable SUV — and the peace of mind of a 7-year warranty — the MG ZS deserves a spot at the top of your shortlist.
16. Affiliate CTA
Thinking of upgrading to an MG ZS or ZS EV? Compare lease, finance, and insurance offers from official MG dealers and discover how affordable smart SUV ownership can be.
Pros & cons
- Smooth and quiet electric driving character
- Potentially low home-charging costs for regular commuters
- Raised driving position and practical cabin layout
- Useful family-friendly versatility
- More engaging than a normal family car
- Strong road presence and driver appeal
- Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
- Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
- Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year
- Public charging costs and winter range need checking before purchase
- Performance versions can be expensive to insure and maintain
Final verdict
The ZS-subcompact crossover (2017,petrol and EV versions) is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.
Buyer checkpoints
| Buyer checkpoint | True Motion Auto view |
|---|---|
| Best for | Drivers wanting quiet electric running and low local emissions, a raised driving position and useful family practicality, strong driver appeal and performance-focused character. |
| Body style | Suv/Crossover |
| Powertrain focus | Electric |
| UK ownership note | Check insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying. |
| Verdict | Worth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use. |
Frequently asked questions
Is the ZS-subcompact crossover (2017,petrol and EV versions) good for UK roads?
Should I buy new or used?
What should I check before ordering?
Is it suitable for families?
SEO details
Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.