Find out what this new compact crossover has to offer the UK market.
The revival of the once dormant MG brand continues in 2019 with the introduction of their new MG ZS compact SUV. The Chinese backed manufacturer is now offering a model into the most competitive vehicle segment of them all, but the MG has something on its side that few other compact-crossovers do, and that is an exceptionally low list price.
The MG ZS is on sale now and prices start from a staggeringly low £12,495. Yes, you read that correctly. That entry price gets you a 1.5-litre petrol engine with a manual gearbox. The engine itself isn’t particularly pokey but its relatively economical for a small unit pushing a big car. On the combined cycle you can expect up to 47 mpg in return.
If you want a ZS with an automatic gearbox you’ll have to cough up a few grand more. These models start from £16,045 and come exclusively with a 1.0-litre turbocharged diesel. Interestingly, the diesel returns 45 mpg on the combined cycle. If you’re weighing up between the petrol model or diesel model, the petrol model offers better value for money upfront and probably better value throughout ownership. Both engines will be £210 to tax per year.
Whichever model you go for, buyers will be happy to know that the MG ZS comes with an outstanding warranty which lasts a whopping 7 years or 80,000 miles. That’s one of the best manufacturer warranties on the market and should help give peace of mind to sceptical buyers.
Inside the MG ZS is a pretty pleasing setup. Naturally, there’s a nice, large touch screen to operate most entertainment functions and this operates responsively and is well behaved. The interior cabin of the ZS might be the cars strongest point. There is plenty of soft-touch materials across the dashboard and around the driver’s seat and the equipment levels are generous. Every single model comes with cruise control, Bluetooth, USB connectivity and mp3 connectivity. Apple CarPlay is standard from the mid-level trim upwards but, interestingly, leather upholstery is only standard on the top-spec ‘Exclusive’ models.
Elsewhere in the cabin lies another really strong point for the ZS, and that is the rear seats. A few compact crossovers are adequate for a family of 5, but not many can carry around a rear row of 3 adults with comfort but the ZS genuinely achieves this. Behind that rear row of seats sits a class leading 448-litre boot, and if you fold the seats down then the MG ZS basically becomes a Transit van (not quite) with a 1,375-litre load space. Again, class leading.
So, while the MG might not be the most powerful or premium compact crossover, it promises exceptional value for money and genuinely admirable levels of practicality. Certainly enough to help boost sales significantly for 2019. Well done, MG.
Offers available from 179 per month at 5.9% APR.
Source: Motoring uk