A former British Touring Car support racer, Nick is the founder of ChooseMyCar and brings years of industry insight to the world of cars and car buying.
Overall Rating
4/5
Based on expert evaluation and real-world testing
Performance
3.5
Comfort & Interior
4
Running Costs
4.2
Practicality
4.3
Expert Review
Our ratings are based on thorough testing and expert evaluation. We consider all aspects of the vehicle, from performance to value for money, ensuring you get a transparent and reliable assessment.
Overview
Looking for a compact SUV that offers impressive value without breaking the bank? The MG ZS delivers exactly that, combining practical family transport with modern technology at a refreshingly affordable price point. This Chinese owned British brand has made a strong comeback in the UK market, and the ZS crossover represents their commitment to offering quality vehicles that don’t cost the earth. The ZS competes directly with popular models like the Nissan Juke and Hyundai Kona, but undercuts many rivals on price while still delivering the essentials most drivers actually need.
What sets the MG ZS apart is its generous warranty coverage and surprisingly spacious interior for such an affordable crossover. The cabin feels more premium than the price tag suggests, with decent build quality and user friendly technology that makes daily driving a pleasure. Boot space is genuinely useful for families, and the raised driving position gives you that commanding view that makes SUVs so popular. Whether you’re navigating city streets or heading out for weekend adventures, the ZS handles both scenarios with confidence and comfort.
For buyers seeking their first SUV or families wanting to upgrade from a hatchback without stretching their budget too far, the MG ZS makes compelling sense. The combination of practicality, affordability, and that all important seven year warranty creates a package that’s hard to ignore in today’s competitive crossover market.
What's the MG ZS Like to Drive?
The MG ZS focuses on providing adequate rather than exciting performance. The 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 111 horsepower suits the car’s character perfectly. It feels nippy enough around town and provides sufficient power for overtaking on country roads. The 0-60 mph time of 10.9 seconds won’t set pulses racing, but it’s competitive for a budget-focused compact SUV. If you need more grunt, the 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine offers 106 horsepower with a smoother delivery.
Key Features
Essential specifications and features
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Engine
1.0L 3-cylinder turbo / 1.5L 4-cylinder
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Power Output
106 - 111 bhp
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0-60 mph
10.9 - 13.1 seconds
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MPG Combined
42 - 45 mpg
- Boot Space
- 448 litres
- Safety Rating
- ★★★★★ (Euro NCAP)
Inside the MG ZS: Comfort & Features
Step inside the ZS and you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the cabin quality. The dashboard design is clean and modern, dominated by an 8-inch touchscreen that handles most of the car’s functions. The materials used feel solid and well assembled, with soft-touch plastics on key contact points. The seats offer good support and comfort for longer journeys, with plenty of adjustment to help you find an ideal driving position. The higher seating position immediately feels more commanding than a conventional hatchback.
The MG ZS offers compelling value for a compact SUV, blending practicality and modern tech at an accessible price. Its 1.0-litre turbo engine provides adequate pace for everyday use, though 0-60 takes 10.9 seconds-unspectacular but competitive. Comfort and interior quality are standout features, with premium materials and quiet refinement. Running costs are low, making it a strong contender in its segment, though performance enthusiasts may seek more thrills elsewhere.
How Much Does It Cost to Run a MG ZS?
The MG ZS shines brightest when it comes to running costs and value for money. Fuel economy figures of 42 to 45 MPG mean you’ll spend less at the pump compared to thirstier alternatives. Insurance groups are reasonable for the class, typically falling into groups 8 to 12 depending on the engine and trim level chosen. The initial purchase price is the ZS’s biggest advantage, undercutting most established rivals by several thousand pounds.
How Does It Compare?
Compare key features and specifications
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MG ZS
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Nissan Qashqai
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Skoda Kamiq
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|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | £18,000 | £24,000 | £20,000 |
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Performance
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| Engine | 1.0L Turbo 111hp | 1.3L Turbo 140hp | 1.0L Turbo 110hp |
| Power | 111 bhp | 140 bhp | 110 bhp |
| 0-60 mph | 10.9 seconds | 9.9 seconds | 10.6 seconds |
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Running Costs
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| MPG Combined | 45 mpg | 44 mpg | 47 mpg |
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Practicality
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| Boot Space | 448 litres | 504 litres | 400 litres |
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Standard Features
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| Key Features | Great value, Long warranty, Spacious cabin | Premium feel, Advanced tech, Strong resale | Quality interior, Efficient engines, VW reliability |
MG ZS Practicality & Boot Space
The MG ZS excels in practical everyday use, which is exactly what most SUV buyers prioritize. The 448-litre boot easily accommodates a weekly family shop or holiday luggage for four people. The rear seats fold flat when you need to transport larger items, creating a usefully shaped load area. Around town, the compact dimensions make parking straightforward while the higher driving position aids visibility in busy traffic situations.
We’ve had our ZS for two years now and it’s been fantastic value. The space inside is brilliant for the kids and the warranty gives us complete confidence. It’s not the fanciest car on the road but it does everything we need perfectly.
The MG ZS stands out in the competitive small SUV market by offering genuine value for money without major compromises. It combines spacious accommodation, decent equipment levels, and competitive running costs in an affordable package. While it may lack the badge prestige of established premium brands, it delivers the practical benefits that most SUV buyers actually prioritize in their daily lives.