New MG ZS Hybrid Goes Upmarket.
New MG ZS Hybrid Goes Upmarket.
The second generation of MG’s big-selling ZS compact SUV has arrived, and with it come increases in length, width and wheelbase for even greater practicality than its predecessor, with a slight reduction in height to aid its aerodynamic properties and to enhance fuel efficiency. With an overall length now in excess of 4.4-metres, the new ZS sits between the B- and C-SUV segments. While the previous generation ZS was available with a petrol engine, or as an EV, the new model is hybrid-exclusive, and it shares both its platform and petrol-electric hybrid powertrain with the smaller MG3 Hybrid. The new ZS adopts MG’s new corporate identity, with a dynamic new front bumper and integrated grille taking centre stage. From a styling point of view, this brings the new ZS in line with its smaller sibling, the MG3 Hybrid, and its bigger sibling, the HS Hybrid.
Increased Legroom & Cargo Space.
However, the new ZS is much more than just a jacked-up MG3, with a completely different cabin design that features hexagon-themed air vents and central touchscreen. A row of physical button underneath the touchscreen provide quick access to the likes of audio volume, heating & ventilation controls, and hazard-warning lights. One of the most distinctive design elements in the cabin has to be the wide electronic gear-lever that is located on the centre console between the front seats, and is reminiscent of a yacht thrust-lever. Located close by is the engine start/stop button and the button for the electronic parking brake, along with the drive mode selector button. The quality of the materials used throughout the cabin of the new ZS definitely steps up a level from its predecessor, and the overall smartness and presentation of the interior is impressive. There is a sense of spaciousness within the cabin of the new ZS Hybrid that belies its relatively-compact footprint, with excellent levels of legroom and headroom available for front and rear seat occupants. The ZS Hybrid’s extended length also benefits boot space, with cargo capacity increasing from 358-litres in the previous model to a practical 443-litres in the new ZS – a figure that is now one of the best in the segment. There is a two-level floor as standard, with the top level providing a flat floor when the 60:40 split-folding rear seats are lowered.
Three Trim Levels.
The new MG ZS Hybrid is offered with a choice of three trims – Essence, Excite and Exclusive, with advanced features like a 10.25” infotainment screen, automatic air-con, and MG Pilot safety technologies as standard. Key standard equipment in Essence trim includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Intelligent Cruise Assist, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Forward Collision Warning, electric parking brake with auto-hold, 7” driver information display, and a 4-speaker audio system with USB and Bluetooth connectivity. Excite trim increases the number of speakers to 6, and adds 17” alloy wheels, LED projector headlights, keyless entry and a 12.3” touchscreen. Additional equipment in Exclusive trim includes leather-style upholstery, 6-way electrically-adjustable driver’s seat, rear privacy glass, heated front seats, heated steering wheel and a 360-degree camera system, while also supplied with 18” alloy wheels as standard.
Test Car Details
My test car was a new ZS Hybrid in range-topping Exclusive trim, and was finished in striking Brilliant Blue metallic paintwork. The ZS Hybrid’s innovative self-charging hybrid powertrain consists of a 101bhp 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that can drive the front wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission, in union with a 134bhp electric motor. Theoretically, the petrol engine works purely to power the 60bhp starter-generator that supplies current to the high-voltage electrical system. The petrol-electric powertrain delivers combined power and torque outputs of 192bhp and 465Nm respectively, and this provides the ZS Hybrid with punchy acceleration either when moving off from a standstill or from lower speeds. The ZS Hybrid can sprint from 0-100km/h in just 8.7-seconds, and it can consume as little as 5.1 litres of petrol for every 100kms driven on a WLTP combined driving cycle. In urban settings, the ZS Hybrid can drive in electric mode for more time than most hybrid rivals, and brake regeneration in this scenario will send energy back to the battery during deceleration. Three levels of regeneration are available, ranging from coasting to more aggressive deceleration, and they can be changed via the central touchscreen, or via the steering wheel by setting it up as one of the ‘Star’ button shortcuts. The 1.83kWh hybrid drive battery is located under the rear seats, and when it starts to run low, the petrol engine kicks into action in order to recharge the battery and to power the front wheels when accelerating sharply, or when climbing steep hills. The car’s tight turning circle and graceful steering makes negotiating car park spaces a simple task, and the brakes have a solid, confident feel to them. Even on wet road surfaces, the ZS Hybrid’s tyres provide a good level of grip, and this unites perfectly with the car’s improved handling characteristics.
Verdict, Price & Warranty.
The new MG ZS Hybrid is, without doubt, a much more attractive, more practical and more desirable compact SUV than before. Big improvements have been made in terms of its exterior styling, cabin space, boot space, handling, build quality and technology and, with prices starting at just €28,995 (ex-delivery), it represents outstanding value for money too. All MG passenger cars are supplied with a 7-year/150,000km warranty for complete peace-of-mind.
Visit www.mg.ie for further information.
