This year, MG has not been content with the introduction of a new plug-in hybrid SUV HS, a hybrid small car MG3 and the electric sports car Cyberster and has now also introduced a new compact crossover ZS.
The Chinese-owned British brand, which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024, has confirmed that the newcomer will initially only be available with a petrol hybrid powertrain, with prices starting at £21,995.
The new ZS Hybrid+ gets an all-new look with styling similar to the larger HS SUV, while the interior is redesigned and gets a larger 443-litre boot.
The entry-level SE model opens the range and features LED headlights and taillights, a 12.3-inch infotainment display and keyless entry.
For an additional £2,500, the £24,495 Trophy model also gets 18-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, heated front seats and steering wheel, a six-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat and a 360-degree surround view camera.
A range of safety equipment called MG Pilot is standard on all vehicles, as is a seven-year/80,000-mile warranty.
The ZS Hybrid+ is powered by a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor that produces a total output of 193bhp and 250Nm of torque. This enables the ZS to accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.5 seconds, but MG is keeping quiet about the car’s top speed.
MG claims the new ZS Hybrid+ can achieve combined fuel economy of 55.4mpg and CO2 emissions are 115g/km. The car’s impressive on-paper figures are thanks to the onboard 1.83kWh high-voltage battery, which is charged by a 45kW generator.
David Allison, Product and Planning Director at MG Motor UK, said: “The all-new MG ZS Hybrid+ offers an exceptional driving experience and incredible value for money in the B-SUV segment, with features and technologies that make everyday life easier.”
“The updated model has a more sophisticated design with a sharper front end and the new interior offers a comfortable and connected cabin. We are confident that we can deliver the same appeal and accessibility that made its predecessor so successful.”
The product range is set to be expanded to include a cheaper version with a pure petrol engine in early 2025, Allison told Auto Express. However, there will not be an electric model to replace the top-selling ZS EV. Instead, an electric crossover based on the MG4 is set to appear in the next few years, which will effectively take the place of the ZS EV.
Order books for the new MG ZS Hybrid+ are now open, with the car expected to arrive in MG’s UK network of 160 dealers from October.
