MG ZS Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos
First production year: 2017
Engines: Electric, Gasoline
Body style: SUV (Sports Utility Vehicle)
Based on the same shape and size as its gasoline-powered cousin, the ZS, the EV version shows a new approach to the market, following the EV trend.
The 2021 ZS EV came when a world pandemic and a chip-shortage issue affected all the carmakers. Yet, the Chinese carmaker who owned the once-famous British brand found a way to attract new buyers. While the previous version of the ZS EV featured a smaller battery pack, the 2021 model featured a larger one as an option. Also, it came with new clothing.
Unlike its predecessor, the 2021 model featured a body-colored front fascia, which lost its mesh-grille design from the gasoline-powered version. The carmaker's designers didn't struggle too much with that, and it mostly looked like a panel with drilled holes in it rather than a true grille meant for cooling. It hid just the charging port, which was placed behind the chromed MG badge. Its LED headlights featured an angular shape with sharp corners and a rounded lower area. Somehow, they resembled the lamps installed on other vehicles. From its sides, the 17" light-alloy wheels showed a five-spoke design.
Inside, the MG ZS EV featured an interior similar to those found on the gasoline-powered version. Yet, the center console looked simpler since it didn't have the gear stick on it. There, the carmaker placed the rotary button for the driving programs (PRND) and a few switches for driving modes, energy recuperation, and battery status. Since it was one of the cheapest cars in its class, the carmaker couldn't afford to install expensive materials.
The medium-sized SUV from MG was launched in 2017 in the UK. A year before it was shown in Shanghai Auto Motor Show. It is positioned lower than GS and has an electric version, which will be sold in the UK and some other countries in Asia, with right-hand drive.
The look is inspired by the Roewe RX3 and shares the same technical platform. Some design cues were carried over from the Chinese sibling but still tries to carry on the British design legacy. They didn't do it too well since the name ZS was used for a compact-class sedan with bold engines. Dimensions are in the sub-compact range with a length of 4.3m (169.8 in) and a width of 1.8 m (71.2 in). Since they kept the original ZS range class of vehicles, they installed new small engines and even an electric version. Thus, ZS became the first Chinese SUV with an electric engine that is sold in Europe.
The ZS SUV also has small gasoline engines ranging from 1.0-liter to 1.5 liters. It is available with 5-speed manual transmission, 4-speed automatic transmission, and 6-speed automatic transmission.
The MG EZS is the electric version of the ZS range. It is powered by a 110 kW motor and transfers its torque to the front wheels.
Inside the cabin, the car has some good things to offer. There is not plenty of room, but it is enough for four adults. The infotainment system supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The trunk can accommodate 448 liters (15.8 cu-ft) of luggage.