The return of MG to the South African market has been highly anticipated, and the MG ZS compact crossover is proving to be a strong contender in the local SUV segment. The Citizen Motoring had the opportunity to visit China last year to preview the lineup of vehicles MG planned to introduce in South Africa at the beginning of this year. While the itinerary included test drives of the MG HS large SUV, the MG ZS crossover, and the MG Cyberster electric sports car, unforeseen airline delays limited the experience to brief runs in the HS and ZS at MG’s testing facilities.
When the invitation arrived to attend the local media event for the newly launched MG ZS and MG HS in Cape Town, it was a perfect opportunity to finally get a comprehensive feel for what MG has to offer. While the Cyberster was absent from this event, a dedicated test for it remains on the horizon.
MG ZS Leads MG’s SUV Expansion
Despite MG’s deep-rooted British heritage and its recent centenary milestone, its Chinese parent company, SAIC—China’s largest automaker—is strategically focusing on the booming SUV and crossover segments. Vehicles like the MG ZS are positioned to appeal to the mass market, while the Cyberster serves as a niche halo model.
The MG ZS is already a global success, sold in over 100 countries with more than a million units on the road. Locally, it enters the market with a highly competitive price, starting at R289,900 for the Comfort trim and R309,900 for the Luxury trim. This aggressive pricing pits it directly against rivals such as the Chery Tiggo 4 Pro, Hyundai Venue, and Kia Sonet.
Key Features
| Feature | MG ZS Comfort | MG ZS Luxury |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L NA | 1.5L NA |
| Power Output | 84kW | 84kW |
| Torque | 150Nm | 150Nm |
| Transmission | 4-speed auto | 4-speed auto |
| Infotainment | Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto | Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto |
| Safety | 6 airbags, ABS, traction control, hill-start hold control | 6 airbags, ABS, traction control, hill-start hold control |
| Sound System | Standard audio | 6-speaker 3D sound system |
| Warranty | 7-year/200,000 km | 7-year/200,000 km |
| Service Plan | 5-year/60,000 km | 5-year/60,000 km |
Design and Interior
While styling is always subjective, the MG ZS carries a classic design that some may find slightly outdated compared to its latest international iteration, which adopts styling cues from the MG HS. That said, it remains a well-constructed and attractive option within its segment.
Inside, the MG ZS offers a refined and spacious cabin reminiscent of the previous-generation Toyota Urban Cruiser—a positive comparison given its reputation for practicality and reliability. The crossover is well-equipped, featuring Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, cruise control, and a six-speaker 3D sound system in the Luxury model.
Reliable Drivetrain
Under the hood, the MG ZS is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine, delivering 84kW of power and 150Nm of torque to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. This setup is familiar to South African consumers, as it mirrors powertrains commonly used in Toyota and Suzuki vehicles. Although MG confirms the engine is not shared with these brands, it provides a reliable and fuel-efficient performance, averaging around 7 litres per 100km—an appealing factor for budget-conscious buyers.
Safety and Value Proposition
The MG ZS prioritizes safety with features such as six airbags, ABS, hazard lights, hydraulic brake assist, traction control, vehicle dynamic control, brake disc washing, and hill-start hold control.
One of the few potential drawbacks is that this version of the MG ZS is based on a previous-generation model, while an updated version is already available in some global markets. However, this also ensures the current model remains an affordable and value-packed offering.
Backing its value proposition, MG provides a generous seven-year/200,000 km vehicle warranty and a five-year/60,000 km service plan, further enhancing its appeal to South African consumers.
Conclusion
The MG ZS is making waves in the South African market by delivering a well-rounded, budget-friendly crossover with competitive features. While it may not boast the latest design updates available overseas, it remains a strong contender thanks to its attractive pricing, solid reliability, and extensive warranty. MG’s return to South Africa is off to a promising start, and with models like the ZS leading the charge, the brand is poised for success in the competitive SUV segment.
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