► All-new ZS grows in size
► Hybrid powertrain shared with 3 hatchback
► Still temptingly priced
Easily the most tempting thing about the old ZS is that it was cheap, but I wouldn’t have called it good. That all changes with the MG ZS Hybrid+, a car that shows MG’s on something of a roll at the moment. Once again it’s aimed at B-segment SUVs whilst being a bit bigger than the class norm at 4430mm. That’s just 52mm shorter than a Skoda Karoq from the class above.
The range is a simple one, with one hybrid powertrain and two well-equipped trims, much like the MG3 supermini with which it shares rather a lot. A pure petrol model with an even lower starting price is on the way, with the old MG ZS EV soldiering on for a few more months. That’ll be replaced by an MG4-based SUV early in 2025.
We’ll tell you how it stacks up in this review and if you want to know how we get to our verdicts, visit our how we test page.
At a glance
Pros: Cheap, spacious, frugal, well-equipped
Cons: Unpredictable hybrid system, no steering wheel reach adjustment, stiff ride
What’s new?
Lots, and all the better for it. The new car has styling that brings it into line with the HS and 3 whilst looking far better proportioned than the old one. Alloys up to 18-inches in diameter help get rid of the underwheeled look of its predecessor, and it’s greatly improved inside, too.
There’s a big 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and a layout reminiscent of the 3 hatchback, funnily enough. The odd boat throttle-style gearlever is a bit overwrought though, especially with more and more brands switching to smaller and more space efficient alternatives.
What’s it like to drive
Brisk, usually. MG quotes a 0-62mph time of 8.7 seconds, but there are times it feels stronger than that, and other times a fair bit weaker. I suspect much of it depends on the state of charge of the battery, with the three-speed ‘box not helping.
If you’ve been driving gently, you’ll find the electric motor quickly deploys its 134bhp before the petrol engine spins up and starts contributing, giving good acceleration. However, a stretch of twisty road taken enthusiastically led to the acceleration feeling far more sluggish, I assume because the battery was effectively flat.
I suppose that is the nature of hybrids, but it’s a bit of a shame as the ZS doesn’t handle badly. Firm suspension and tighter, better resolved damping than I was expecting gives reasonable agility and not much lean. Grip levels are fine, although there’s not the sense of fun a high-powered manual Ford Puma can bring.
The stiff springs do bring a ride that can jostle at low speeds, becoming acceptably comfortable at speed. The aforementioned Puma is even harsher with ST-Line suspension, with the Captur and Kamiq offering comfier alternatives. Refinement could also be better: the air con is noisy and there’s a fair bit of road noise as well. Low 50s mpg seems possible if you drive gently, with even a hard run failing to dip below 40mpg.
What’s the interior like?
Better than you’d expect given the bargain price. The top of the dash is covered with soft-touch plastic with faux stitching, there’s a pleasing matt finish to the shortcut buttons under the touchscreen and a few metal-effect trims to liven things up.
A Kamiq or high-spec Captur is plusher still, yet this feels better than the Puma’s uninspiring interior. The touchscreen is the most responsive we’ve experienced in an MG and there’s a more user-friendly interface. Configurable steering wheel shortcuts even allow you to adjust the temperature without delving into the touchscreen. Sadly, that wheel only adjusts for rake, not reach. Wait until early next year and that should change, though.
Interior space is generous for the class with plenty of space for front seat passengers. There’s sufficient space for a six foot adult to sit relatively comfortably behind themselves, with good headroom and just enough legroom. Boot space is a useful 443-litres. Not the biggest in the class, but certainly above average.
What are the specs?
Under the bonnet you’ll find a 101bhp 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine that’s boosted by a 134bhp electric motor – unusually powerful for a non-plug-in hybrid. Together they can produce 194bhp and a surprising 343Ib ft of torque. All this drives through a three, yes, I said three, speed automatic gearbox powering the front wheels. Weight is a 1410kg, in case you’re interested.
Before you buy – trims and rivals
There are just two trims to pick from, SE and Trophy. SE comes with more kit than most entry-level rivals including a full suite of safety assist systems, a rear camera, sat nav, climate control and keyless entry.
Trophy adds niceties such as 18 instead of 17-inch wheels, heated front seats and steering wheel, leather-effect seats in place of cloth, rear privacy glass and an electrically adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support. Although SE makes sense, Trophy is still cheap enough given the little luxuries you gain.
Hybrid rivals include the Renault Captur and Toyota Yaris Cross, plus there are plenty of ICE options, too. That includes the sharp-driving Ford Puma and thoroughly sensible Skoda Kamiq.
MG ZS Hybrid+: verdict
The ZS is yet another impressive MG that punches above its price, rather than feeling like its built to it. That’s not to say it’s perfect or that there’s no evidence of its affordability. Our test car’s rear seat backs are rather baggy for a brand new car, and the driver’s display looks more like a menu in a cheap racing game.
The powertrain is also a bit odd and unpolished at times, not to mention inconsistent in the amount of power it delivers if you drive it hard. That said, when’s the last time you saw an MG ZS being pedalled hard on a sinewy stretch of Tarmac? More importantly, it’s spacious, well priced and offers impressive fuel economy. Make no mistake, this is a proper contender.