MG ZS driving impressions: A real alternative to the Dacia Duster – or not?
The MG ZS offers excellent value for money, whether you choose the 116 hp petrol engine or the 197 hp hybrid.
The MG ZS (from 17,992 euros), with a length of 4.43 meters, impresses with a striking design. The large Aston Martin-style radiator grille, LED headlights (from the comfort trim level) and the elegant rims of the Luxury variant give the SUV a sporty look.
The Emerald Green Metallic, the base colour at no extra charge, provides a noble look that unfolds especially in the sunlight. Compared to the Dacia Duster, the ZS offers more performance and equipment – and at an equally attractive price.
The interior of the MG ZS is functional and neatly finished, with a mix of hard plastic and imitation leather. The trunk offers enough space for luggage with 443 liters (up to 1,457 liters with the rear seat folded down). The equipment varies depending on the model, but the Luxury variant comes with an electrically adjustable driver's seat, heated seats and a 360° camera system.
The petrol version of the MG ZS relies on a 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine that produces 116 hp. Somewhat surprisingly, the manual transmission offers only 5 gears and not 6 as we are used to today. This is also noticeable in the fuel consumption, which is officially already 6.5 l/100 km – not exactly low.
The hybrid version combines a 1.5-liter gasoline engine with an electric motor and achieves a combined output of 197 hp. The electric motor ensures good fuel consumption, especially in city traffic. MG officially specifies 5.1 l/100 km. The hybrid accelerates faster than the gasoline engine and drives more smoothly thanks to the three-speed hybrid transmission, even if long shifting pauses can impair driving comfort.
Both variants, whether gasoline or hybrid, offer a comfortable chassis. The handling is pleasant and stable. The ZS with the hybrid engine drives particularly quietly and comfortably, while the petrol version gets a little louder at higher engine speeds. Both models are unobtrusive and offer a good driving experience.
The MG ZS offers a lot of car for the money. The gasoline version with 116 hp is ideal for those looking for a reliable and affordable SUV. If you want more power and quieter driving, you can go for the hybrid version with 197 hp. With this you can save fuel, especially in the city. All in all, the MG ZS remains an attractive proposition, especially in terms of equipment and the 7-year warranty.