MG Electric Car 2020 Review Performance Features and Value

The MG Electric Car 2020 delivers impressive value with a 320-mile range and rapid charging, making it a standout in its class. Packed with smart tech, responsive handling, and a competitive price, it’s a smart pick for eco-conscious drivers seeking performance without premium costs.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 260 miles on a single charge for long commutes.
• Fast charging: 80% charge in 40 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Smooth acceleration: Instant torque delivers quick, responsive city driving.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive cost with generous standard features for value seekers.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space for its compact class.
• User-friendly tech: Intuitive infotainment system with smartphone integration included.

Introduction: The Electric Revolution Arrives with the MG Electric Car 2020

The electric vehicle (EV) market has undergone a seismic shift in the past decade, and by 2020, it was clear that affordable, practical, and stylish electric cars were no longer a distant dream. Among the new contenders stepping confidently into the spotlight was MG Motor, a British heritage brand revitalized under Chinese ownership. The MG electric car 2020 lineup—led by the MG ZS EV—marked a turning point for the company, offering a compelling blend of modern design, impressive performance, and exceptional value. As governments worldwide pushed for greener transportation and consumers sought cost-effective alternatives to traditional combustion engines, MG’s entry into the EV space was both timely and strategic.

What set the MG electric car 2020 apart from other budget-friendly EVs wasn’t just its price tag, but its holistic approach to electric mobility. Unlike many competitors that prioritized one aspect—such as range or tech—at the expense of others, the 2020 MG ZS EV balanced all key elements: a competitive 163-mile range (WLTP), fast charging capability, a spacious interior, and advanced safety features. For first-time EV buyers, eco-conscious families, and urban commuters alike, the MG electric car 2020 represented a rare trifecta: affordability, practicality, and innovation. In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive deep into the performance, features, and real-world value of the 2020 MG ZS EV, exploring how it stacks up against rivals and why it remains a standout choice even years after its launch.

Performance and Driving Experience: Power, Range, and Efficiency

The MG electric car 2020 delivers a driving experience that defies expectations for its price point. At the heart of the MG ZS EV is a 148-horsepower (110 kW) electric motor paired with a 44.5 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. This setup provides instant torque, enabling the car to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 8.2 seconds, a figure that rivals many entry-level gasoline-powered SUVs. The electric motor’s responsiveness makes city driving a breeze, with smooth acceleration and minimal noise—a hallmark of EVs.

Real-World Range and Charging Capabilities

One of the most critical factors for EV buyers is range, and the MG electric car 2020 delivers a WLTP-certified 163 miles on a full charge. In real-world conditions—factoring in urban driving, moderate use of climate control, and mixed speeds—drivers typically achieve between 130–150 miles, which is more than sufficient for daily commutes and weekend trips. For example, a driver in London with a 30-mile round-trip commute could go a full workweek without needing to recharge.

Charging is equally practical. The MG ZS EV supports:

• AC Charging (7 kW home wallbox): 6–7 hours for a full charge
• DC Fast Charging (50 kW public stations): 40 minutes to reach 80% charge
• Standard 230V household outlet: 18–20 hours (not recommended for daily use)

Tip: Use a 7 kW home wallbox charger for overnight charging. It’s cost-effective and extends battery life compared to frequent fast charging. Apps like Zap-Map or PlugShare can help locate nearby fast chargers on longer journeys.

Regenerative Braking and Driving Modes

The MG electric car 2020 includes three levels of regenerative braking (Low, Medium, High), allowing drivers to customize energy recovery. In “High” mode, the car can nearly come to a complete stop without using the physical brakes—ideal for city traffic. This feature not only enhances efficiency but also reduces wear on brake pads.

Additionally, the ZS EV offers three driving modes:

• Eco: Maximizes range by limiting acceleration and climate control output
• Normal: Balanced performance for everyday driving
• Sport: Increases throttle response for quicker acceleration (ideal for highway merging)

For instance, using “Eco” mode on a 20-mile urban commute could add up to 10–15 extra miles of range, while “Sport” mode is best reserved for open roads where speed and responsiveness matter.

Handling and Ride Comfort

The MG ZS EV’s chassis is tuned for comfort rather than sportiness, making it a great choice for families and long-distance drivers. The suspension absorbs potholes and uneven roads well, and the elevated SUV stance provides good visibility. While the steering is light (ideal for city driving), it lacks the feedback of premium EVs like the Tesla Model 3. However, for its price, the handling is predictable and stable, even at highway speeds.

Practical Example: A family driving from Manchester to Birmingham (approx. 90 miles) with luggage and two children reported a comfortable, quiet journey. The regenerative braking helped maintain battery levels, and the cabin remained well-insulated from road noise.

Design and Interior: Modern Aesthetics and Practical Space

The MG electric car 2020 blends modern design cues with practical functionality. Unlike some EVs that sacrifice space for sleekness, the ZS EV retains the SUV profile of its gasoline counterpart, resulting in a roomy, versatile cabin. The exterior features a bold front grille (with a unique EV-specific design), LED daytime running lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels—all contributing to a premium look that belies its affordable price.

Exterior Design Highlights

The MG ZS EV’s design is both aerodynamic and visually appealing. Key features include:

• Active Grille Shutters: Automatically open and close to optimize aerodynamics and cooling
• LED Headlights and Taillights: Improve visibility and reduce energy consumption
• Charging Port Location: Conveniently placed on the front fender, with a blue LED indicator
• Roof Rails: Optional, for carrying bikes or roof boxes

The car is available in five colors, including Arctic White, Dynamic Red, and Sterling Silver, with the EV-specific Tri-Tone Blue being a standout choice for eco-conscious buyers.

Interior Layout and Materials

Inside, the MG electric car 2020 prioritizes comfort and usability. The dashboard features a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system (standard on all trims), which is responsive and intuitive. Materials are a mix of soft-touch plastics and durable fabrics, with higher trims offering synthetic leather upholstery. While not as luxurious as a Tesla, the cabin feels well-built and modern.

Key interior features include:

• Dual-Zone Climate Control: Standard on all models
• Heated Front Seats: Available on the top-tier “Exclusive” trim
• 60:40 Split Rear Seats: Expand cargo space from 448 liters to 1,162 liters
• Panoramic Sunroof: Optional, adds brightness and a sense of space

Tip: The center console includes a wireless phone charger (on higher trims) and USB-C ports—perfect for keeping devices charged during long drives.

Space and Practicality

The MG ZS EV excels in space. Rear legroom (970 mm) is generous for the segment, and headroom is ample even for taller passengers. The boot space (448 liters) is competitive with rivals like the Nissan Leaf e+ (435 liters) and Kia e-Niro (451 liters). With the rear seats folded, the cargo area becomes a flat, usable space ideal for moving large items.

Practical Example: A weekend camping trip with two adults and a dog required only folding the rear seats—no need to remove the dog crate. The panoramic sunroof also provided a great view of the stars at night.

Technology and Infotainment: Connectivity and Smart Features

The MG electric car 2020 is packed with tech features that enhance convenience, safety, and entertainment. The centerpiece is the 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which runs MG’s iSMART 2.0 platform. This system is intuitive, with large icons and quick response times, making it easy to use while driving.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The iSMART 2.0 system includes:

• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto: Standard on all trims
• Bluetooth Connectivity: For hands-free calls and audio streaming
• Voice Recognition: Supports commands for navigation, climate, and media
• Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates: Ensures software stays current without dealer visits

The system also features a 360-degree camera (available on higher trims), which is invaluable for parking in tight spaces. For example, maneuvering into a narrow London parking spot becomes effortless with the bird’s-eye view.

Driver Assistance and Safety Tech

Safety is a priority in the MG electric car 2020. Standard features include:

• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a safe distance from vehicles ahead
• Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA): Alerts and corrects unintentional lane drifting
• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles
• Traffic Sign Recognition: Reads speed limits and displays them on the dashboard
• Blind Spot Monitoring: Alerts when changing lanes

The ZS EV earned a 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating in 2019, with high scores in adult and child occupant protection. This makes it a top choice for families.

Tip: Use ACC on highways to reduce driver fatigue. Combine it with LKA for semi-autonomous driving (though always keep hands on the wheel).

Smartphone App Integration

The MG iSMART app allows owners to:

• Pre-condition the cabin (heat or cool) before driving
• Check battery status and charging progress remotely
• Locate the car via GPS
• Set charging schedules to take advantage of off-peak electricity rates

For instance, setting a pre-conditioning time for 7:00 AM ensures a warm cabin in winter without draining the battery overnight.

Value for Money: Pricing, Ownership Costs, and Incentives

The MG electric car 2020 is a masterclass in value. With a starting price of £25,495 (before grants) in the UK, it undercuts rivals like the Nissan Leaf e+ (£29,995) and Kia e-Niro (£34,995) while offering comparable or superior features. After the UK’s Plug-in Car Grant (PiCG) of £3,000, the effective price drops to £22,495—making it one of the most affordable EVs with fast charging and a 160+ mile range.

Purchase Options and Financing

MG offers flexible financing options:

• Personal Contract Purchase (PCP): From £199/month with a £3,000 deposit
• Hire Purchase (HP): Own the car outright after 48–60 months
• Lease Deals: Business and personal leasing with maintenance packages

For example, a 48-month PCP with a £3,000 deposit and 10,000 annual miles results in a monthly payment of £249, with a final balloon payment of £10,500 (based on 50% residual value).

Running Costs and Savings

EVs are significantly cheaper to run than ICE vehicles. The MG ZS EV’s energy consumption is 16.5 kWh/100 miles, translating to:

• Annual Electricity Cost: ~£264 (at £0.16/kWh for 10,000 miles)
• Annual Fuel Cost (Equivalent Petrol Car): ~£1,200
• Annual Savings: ~£936

Other savings include:

• Exemption from UK Vehicle Excise Duty (VED): Saves £150/year
• Congestion Charge Exemption (London): Saves £11.50/day
• Free Parking in Some Cities: E.g., Milton Keynes, Bristol

Tip: Use a smart charger to schedule charging during off-peak hours (e.g., 12 AM–6 AM), reducing electricity costs by up to 30%.

Warranty and Reliability

MG backs the ZS EV with a 7-year/80,000-mile warranty—one of the longest in the industry. This covers the battery, motor, and all electrical components. In contrast, most rivals offer 3–5 years. MG’s warranty also includes roadside assistance and a free service for the first year.

Reliability data from 2020–2023 shows a 92% owner satisfaction rate, with common issues limited to minor software glitches (quickly fixed via OTA updates).

Comparison with Competitors: How the MG Electric Car 2020 Stands Out

To understand the MG ZS EV’s value, it’s essential to compare it with key rivals in the 2020 EV market. Below is a data table highlighting critical differences:

Feature	MG ZS EV (2020)	Nissan Leaf e+	Kia e-Niro	Hyundai Kona Electric
Price (UK, before grants)	£25,495	£29,995	£34,995	£30,495
WLTP Range	163 miles	239 miles	282 miles	300 miles
Fast Charging (50 kW)	Yes (40 mins to 80%)	Yes (40 mins to 80%)	Yes (40 mins to 80%)	Yes (40 mins to 80%)
Warranty	7 years/80,000 miles	3 years/60,000 miles	7 years/100,000 miles	5 years/100,000 miles
Infotainment Screen	10.1-inch	8-inch	10.25-inch	8-inch
Boot Space (Liters)	448	435	451	332
Euro NCAP Rating	5 stars	5 stars	5 stars	5 stars

Key Takeaways from the Comparison

• The MG ZS EV is £4,500–£9,500 cheaper than the e-Niro and Kona Electric, despite having a larger boot and similar tech.
• While the Leaf e+ and e-Niro offer longer range, the ZS EV’s 163 miles is sufficient for 95% of UK drivers (average daily commute: 20 miles).
• MG’s 7-year warranty matches Kia’s and exceeds Hyundai’s, providing long-term peace of mind.
• The 10.1-inch screen is larger than the Leaf and Kona, enhancing usability.

Practical Insight: For a buyer prioritizing budget and space over maximum range, the MG electric car 2020 is the clear winner. It’s ideal for urban dwellers, families, and those new to EVs.

Conclusion: A Benchmark for Affordable Electric Mobility

The MG electric car 2020, represented by the ZS EV, is more than just a budget-friendly EV—it’s a statement that sustainable, high-tech transportation doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. With its 163-mile range, fast charging capability, spacious interior, and advanced safety tech, it strikes a rare balance between performance, practicality, and value. Whether you’re a city commuter, a family looking for a second car, or an eco-conscious driver making the switch to electric, the ZS EV delivers on all fronts.

What truly sets it apart is its 7-year warranty and low ownership costs, which address common concerns about EV reliability and long-term expenses. In a market crowded with expensive premium EVs, the MG electric car 2020 proves that affordability and innovation can coexist. As the world moves toward a greener future, the ZS EV stands as a testament to MG’s vision: making electric mobility accessible to everyone. For under £25,000, it’s not just a smart purchase—it’s a forward-thinking investment in the future of transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the MG Electric Car 2020 on a single charge?

The 2020 MG ZS EV offers an official range of up to 163 miles (WLTP) on a full charge, making it ideal for city commutes and short road trips. Real-world range may vary between 130–150 miles depending on driving conditions and climate control usage.

How fast does the MG Electric Car 2020 charge?

The 2020 MG ZS EV supports DC fast charging, reaching 80% in about 40 minutes using a 50kW charger. With a standard 7.4kW home charger, a full charge takes approximately 6–7 hours.

Is the MG Electric Car 2020 suitable for long-distance driving?

While the MG Electric Car 2020 is primarily designed for urban and suburban use, its 163-mile range and fast-charging capability allow for occasional longer trips. Planning charging stops via apps like Zap-Map is recommended for extended journeys.

What are the standout features of the MG Electric Car 2020?

The 2020 MG ZS EV includes key features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, adaptive cruise control, and a panoramic sunroof. Its 448L boot space and 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating add practicality and peace of mind.

How does the MG Electric Car 2020 compare in value to rivals?

The MG Electric Car 2020 delivers strong value with a competitive price tag, generous standard equipment, and a 7-year warranty. It undercuts rivals like the Nissan Leaf and Kia e-Niro while offering similar space and tech features.

Can I use a home charger for the 2020 MG ZS EV?

Yes, the 2020 MG ZS EV is compatible with a 7.4kW home wallbox charger (recommended for safety and speed). It can also be charged using a standard 3-pin plug, though this method is significantly slower and not advised for daily use.