New MG ZS Revealed: Sub-£22k Hybrid Crossover

Introduction

MG Motor is set to launch the second generation of its popular ZS crossover, featuring a fresh design, advanced technology, and an affordable sub-£22,000 hybrid option. The new ZS, following the footsteps of the recently launched HS flagship and 3 supermini, boasts a revamped interior and exterior, along with improved cabin materials and equipment. The electrified petrol powertrain replaces the previous model’s pure internal combustion engine (ICE) setup, providing a more efficient and eco-friendly driving experience.

Hybrid Powertrain

The new ZS hybrid shares its powertrain with the MG 3, combining a 101bhp 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with a 134bhp electric motor integrated into the gearbox. This combination delivers a combined power output of 194bhp, allowing the ZS to accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just 8.7 seconds. The electric motor is powered by a 1.83kWh battery located beneath the rear seat, which can be charged using a small motor-generator. The hybrid system offers impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 55.4mpg on the combined cycle and emitting only 115g/km of CO2, compared to the previous pure petrol model’s figures of 42.7mpg and 149g/km.

Pricing and Competitors

The new MG ZS hybrid starts at £21,995 for the entry-level SE trim, significantly undercutting hybrid versions of its competitors such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur, and Hyundai Kona. This makes the ZS one of the most affordable electrified SUVs available in the market.

Features and Equipment

The ZS hybrid comes with a range of standard features, including LED lighting, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, a rear parking camera, automatic headlights, and keyless entry. For an additional £25000, customers can opt for the Trophy trim, which adds rear privacy glass, larger 18-inch alloys, faux leather seats (heated in the front), an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, and a 360-degree camera.

Future Plans

MG has experienced great success with the outgoing ZS, becoming one of the best-selling cars in the UK since its launch in 2017. The company has sold over 102,000 units, surpassing key rivals such as the Dacia Duster, Skoda Kamiq, and Seat Arona. In addition to the hybrid ZS, MG is also planning to introduce an electric version, the ZS EV, which will share the same design and interior but will be based on the MSP architecture used in the MG 4 hatchback and Cyberster sports car. Furthermore, MG has announced the upcoming release of an extended version of the MG 4 to replace the aging 5 estate, as well as a small electric city car known as the MG 2.

Q&A: Guy Pigounakis, Commercial Director, MG Motor UK

Will MG continue with a mix of powertrains in the UK?

“Where we have lots of platforms and lots of powertrain combinations globally that we can pick and mix from, we feel like we will take full advantage of that as long as we can until the market settles and we’ve got clear direction as to which way we need to go.”

Is MG in a healthy position to handle the UK’s 2035 ban on new ICE cars?

“We could be 100% electric by 2030, no problem at all. We just brought in a new hybrid in the MG 3. We’re bringing in more petrol cars. We’re bringing in the ZEVs.”

Has the ZEV mandate affected MG’s UK pricing?

“Not at all. With the ZEV mandate, we have to try to get our head around exactly what we’re supposed to be paying, how we’re supposed to be paying it, and what the process is. We’ve told the dealers to carry on selling as if nothing has happened, and we will sort out any problem there might be at whatever point down the line.”