The new MG ZS is an affordable hybrid SUV with plenty of space for the whole family. It’s packed with tech, the refreshed interior looks premium, and there’s a unique feature that other brands will want to steal.
If it’s so great, why are MG cars so cheap to buy? I tested the 2025 MG ZS hybrid+ for a week to find out if it is new and improved, or just keeping up appearances. We’ll cover major changes, design, what it’s like to drive, and why this bargain SUV should be on your shortlist.
Pros
- Affordable
- Premium design
- Efficient
Cons
- Cheap buttons
- Weird transmission
- Small cupholders
2025 MG ZS First Impressions
2025 Highlights
- New Hybrid+ engine
- Standard Keyless entry
- iSmart Phone connectivity
- Rear parking camera on SE trim
- Sporty rear spoiler
This MG ZS facelift has worked wonders – it looks great. The designers have managed to capture the essence of luxury cars in an affordable package. Seriously, look through those photos again and tell me the rear doesn’t look like a BMW X3! The newly fitted rear spoiler, privacy glass, and 18-inch alloy wheels on this Trophy trim add bling.
How Does the MG ZS Drive?
Powered by the same 1.5-litre petrol hybrid engine in the MG3 hybrid I reviewed earlier, the MG ZS is punchy. It has more power than the Hyundai Kona, and faster than the Ford Kuga Plug-in Hybrid. You can also switch between eco, normal, and sport drive modes, depending on your mood. Suspension can be harsh at times, and there’s wind noise at higher speeds, but nothing my music couldn’t drown out. Like the MG HS, there is no all-wheel drive option, but most people don’t need that. For the daily driver who want a comfortable car for commuting, or a fuel-efficient SUV for family road trips at the weekend, the MG ZS has you covered.
However, the electric power is also its downfall. Don’t get me wrong, the reverse-hybrid system is very clever. Rather than using the motor to assist the engine, the engine is a generator for the motor. This means you get the benefits of an electric car without the range anxiety and lengthy charging times. My main issue is with the transmission.
Most electric and hybrid vehicles use a continuously variable transmission, or a single-speed transmission. Basically, there are no gears, so it’s a smooth drive. For some reason, the ZS has a 3-speed transmission. Even if you don’t fully understand what’s happening as you put the foot down to join a motorway, you’ll feel yourself getting thrown around, followed by a screaming engine. The car seemed just as confused as I was. Perhaps it’s a cost thing, but the automatic transmission was my biggest gripe on the MG HS, too. I’ve yet to drive the ZS EV, so I’ll hold out hope that it’s better.
Performance Specifications
| Engine | 1.5-litre petrol hybrid |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Total Power | 196 PS |
| Torque | 465 Nm |
| Motor | 136 PS |
| Battery | 1.83 kWh |
| Fuel Economy (CMB) | 55.4 MPG |
| 0-62 MPH | 8.7 Seconds |
A Flashy Interior
Clearly, there was a focus on making the ZS interior as luxurious as possible without breaking the bank. Soft leather-like material with contrast stitching coats the parts you often touch, and gloss black casings and buttons line the centre console. The seats, cloth on SE and leather-feel on Trophy, are well-cushioned, and it’s easy to get comfortable with electric adjustments. Rear seats offer ample leg and headroom for adults, and there are two ISOFIX points for safely installing child seats.
Sadly, it’s noticeably cheap in areas. When I first tried to change drive modes, the button got stuck. It took me a while to figure out another bit of the trim moved and jammed it.
Modern Tech takeover
I bet you’re wondering what feature the title of this review is talking about. Well, this is such a simple idea, yet I don’t think any other manufacturer does it. Kudos to you, MG. There’s a USB charging port in the rearview mirror for connecting car dashcams—no more wires hanging down the middle of your windscreen. Genius!
As well as the coolest location for a charging port, the ZS has loads of other smart technology. A 7-inch digital instrument cluster behind the wheel and a larger touchscreen, now 12.3-inch, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto modernizes the cabin. It’s responsive on its own, but I always use Android Auto anyway. MG Pilot is standard on both trims, bringing advanced driver aids for improved safety.
New MG Pilot Features
- Adaptive cruise control
- Active emergency braking
- Lane keep assist
- Lane departure warning
- Blind spot detection
- Rear cross-traffic alert
- Forward collision warning
- Traffic jam assist
- Speed limit recognition
- Intelligent speed limit assist
MG ZS Boot Space And Storage
Despite shrinking from the previous model, the new MG ZS hybrid offers 443 litres of boot space, expanding to 1,457L with rear seats folded. This is still larger than the Honda ZR-Vs 370/1,301 litres. A deep floor creates a big load lip, but there are more than a few tether points. There is decent storage throughout the cabin, with large door pockets and a phone cradle. The two cupholders in front of the centre armrest are small, and it’s a tight squeeze for two drinks at the same time.
Should You Buy A MG ZS Hybrid?
If you need a spacious SUV on a budget, then the new MG HS Hybrid is an excellent choice. Sure, there are better made competitors available, but not at this price. While the SE comes with a generous amount of tech as standard, like a reversing camera and keyless entry, I recommend spending a few extra pounds on the MG ZS Trophy, if you can afford to. You’ll gain 18-inch alloy wheels, leather-style upholstery, privacy glass, a 360-degree view camera, a heated steering wheel, and heated seats.
You could save money on a mid-range Dacia Duster, but the interior isn’t as nice. If you’re really concerned about quality or reliability, you could splurge £38,400 on a less powerful Honda ZR-V… For the most part, the ZS is good. Plus, there’s a re-assuring 7-year/80k man warranty if any issues crop up.
New MG ZS Hybrid Price
| MG ZS Hybrid+ SE | £21,730 |
| MG ZS Hybrid+ Trophy | £24,230 |
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