MG Electric Car ZS Review Features Range and Value

The MG ZS EV stands out as a top-value electric SUV, offering an impressive 273-mile range on a single charge—perfect for both city commutes and longer road trips. Packed with premium features like a 10.1-inch touchscreen, adaptive cruise control, and a spacious interior, it delivers luxury-level tech at a fraction of the price of many rivals.

Key Takeaways

• Impressive range: Up to 440 km on a single charge for long-distance confidence.
• Affordable pricing: Competitive cost without compromising essential EV features.
• Fast charging: Reaches 80% in 30 minutes with DC fast charging.
• Spacious interior: Roomy cabin and cargo space ideal for families.
• Smart tech: 10.1-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Safety first: Includes ADAS features like lane assist and adaptive cruise.

MG Electric Car ZS Review: Features, Range, and Value

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is in full swing, and the MG Electric Car ZS has emerged as a compelling contender in the compact SUV segment. With rising fuel costs, growing environmental concerns, and governments pushing for greener transportation, the shift toward electric mobility is no longer a niche trend but a mainstream necessity. Amid this transformation, MG—short for Morris Garages, a historic British marque now revitalized under Chinese ownership—has stepped into the spotlight with a model that blends practicality, modern design, and affordability. The MG ZS EV isn’t just another EV on the market; it’s a statement of intent: that electric mobility can be accessible without sacrificing style, performance, or comfort.

Launched globally in multiple markets—including the UK, Europe, Australia, and India—the MG Electric Car ZS has quickly gained traction for its competitive pricing, impressive range, and feature-rich cabin. Unlike some EVs that prioritize futuristic tech at the expense of usability, the ZS EV strikes a balance between innovation and everyday functionality. Whether you’re a first-time EV buyer, a family looking for a practical electric SUV, or a city dweller needing reliable daily transport, the MG ZS EV promises to deliver. In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore its standout features, real-world range, driving dynamics, interior quality, safety credentials, and overall value proposition to determine whether it’s truly a smart investment in the evolving EV landscape.

Design and Exterior Styling

Modern Aesthetics with a Touch of Sportiness

The MG Electric Car ZS features a refreshed exterior design that sets it apart from its petrol-powered sibling, the MG ZS. While the overall silhouette remains familiar—compact, upright, and SUV-like—the EV variant introduces several key visual updates that emphasize its electric identity. The most noticeable change is the full-width LED light bar across the front, which replaces the traditional grille. This “closed” front end not only enhances aerodynamics but also gives the car a sleek, futuristic look. The headlights are sharp and angular, with integrated daytime running lights that sweep outward, creating a bold, aggressive face.

The side profile maintains the ZS’s signature high roofline and large windows, offering excellent visibility and a sense of spaciousness—ideal for urban driving and family use. The 17-inch alloy wheels (standard on most trims) are aerodynamically optimized to reduce drag, which helps improve efficiency. At the rear, the full-width LED taillights mirror the front design, creating a cohesive visual theme. The rear bumper is slightly redesigned to accommodate the absence of exhaust tips, and a subtle “EV” badge on the tailgate confirms its electric nature.

Color Options and Practical Touches

MG offers a range of vibrant exterior colors for the ZS EV, including Dynamic Red, Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Volcano Orange, allowing buyers to personalize their vehicle. The paint quality is generally good for its class, with a glossy finish that holds up well under daily use. One practical design element is the inclusion of a rear windscreen wiper, which is often omitted in smaller EVs but is a welcome feature for keeping visibility clear in wet weather.

Another thoughtful touch is the hands-free power tailgate (available on higher trims), which uses a motion sensor under the rear bumper. Simply wave your foot, and the boot opens automatically—perfect when your hands are full with groceries or luggage. The charging port is located on the front fender, a convenient position that minimizes cable length and avoids clutter around the rear.

Build Quality and First Impressions

While the MG ZS EV doesn’t compete with premium German EVs in terms of material feel, it punches above its weight in the sub-£30,000 (or equivalent) segment. The panel gaps are consistent, and the doors close with a solid thud, suggesting good structural integrity. The overall build quality is robust, with no noticeable rattles or squeaks during test drives. For buyers upgrading from older internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the ZS EV’s exterior will feel modern and well-executed, offering a significant step up in both aesthetics and perceived quality.

Interior Comfort, Technology, and Space

Spacious and Family-Friendly Cabin

One of the standout features of the MG Electric Car ZS is its interior space. Despite its compact exterior footprint (4,314 mm long), the ZS EV offers generous legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. The flat floor in the rear—thanks to the absence of a transmission tunnel—makes it comfortable for three adults to sit side by side. The seats are supportive and offer good lateral bolstering, making them suitable for longer journeys. The front seats are manually adjustable (power adjustment is available on higher trims), and the driving position is upright and commanding, giving a clear view of the road.

The boot space is another strong point: 448 liters with the rear seats up, expanding to 1,166 liters when folded. This rivals many larger SUVs and is more than adequate for weekly shopping, strollers, or weekend getaways. The boot floor is flat, and the opening is wide, making loading bulky items easy. A 12V socket and LED lighting in the boot add practicality, while a spare tire (in some markets) or tire repair kit (in others) is included.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The ZS EV comes equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system as standard, mounted high on the dashboard for easy visibility. The system runs MG’s iSMART connected car platform, which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (wired and wireless on higher trims), Bluetooth, and a built-in navigation system. The interface is responsive, with large icons and intuitive menus—ideal for drivers who prefer minimal distraction.

Higher trims add features like a 360-degree camera, wireless charging pad, and a 6-speaker audio system (upgraded from the base 4-speaker setup). The iSMART app allows remote functions such as pre-conditioning the cabin, checking battery status, and locking/unlocking the car—all via a smartphone. This is particularly useful in extreme weather, allowing you to heat or cool the car while it’s still charging.

Materials and Ergonomics

The cabin materials are a mix of soft-touch plastics, fabric, and leather (depending on trim). While it won’t match the luxury of a BMW or Audi, the ZS EV feels modern and well-put-together for its price point. The dashboard layout is clean, with physical controls for the climate system (a welcome relief from touch-only interfaces), and a digital instrument cluster that displays speed, battery level, and trip information clearly.

Storage solutions are plentiful: a large glovebox, door pockets, a center console bin, and a cooled glovebox (on higher trims). The front armrest slides forward for comfort, and there are two cupholders in the center console. Rear passengers get their own air vents and USB-C ports, ensuring devices stay charged on long drives.

Performance, Range, and Charging

Electric Powertrain and Driving Dynamics

The MG Electric Car ZS is powered by a permanent magnet synchronous motor mounted on the front axle, delivering 176 horsepower (130 kW) and 280 Nm of torque. This results in brisk acceleration: 0–60 mph in around 8.2 seconds, which is more than adequate for city driving and highway merging. Unlike some EVs that feel overly aggressive, the ZS EV offers smooth, linear power delivery with three selectable drive modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport.

In Eco mode, throttle response is softened, and energy recovery is maximized—ideal for maximizing range. Normal mode strikes a balance between responsiveness and efficiency, while Sport mode sharpens the throttle and steering feedback for a more engaging drive. The steering is light at low speeds (great for parking) and gains weight at higher speeds, though it lacks the precision of premium EVs.

The ride quality is generally good, with MacPherson strut front and torsion beam rear suspension. It handles bumps and potholes well, though larger potholes can send a jolt through the cabin. The low center of gravity—thanks to the floor-mounted battery—reduces body roll in corners, making the ZS EV feel stable and planted.

Real-World Range and Efficiency

The ZS EV is available with two battery options: a 50.3 kWh unit (early models) and a 72.6 kWh unit (current models). The larger battery provides a WLTP-rated range of up to 273 miles (439 km), though real-world range typically falls between 220–250 miles (354–402 km) depending on driving conditions, weather, and usage of climate control.

For example, a driver in the UK using the car for daily commutes (30 miles round-trip), occasional motorway trips, and moderate use of the heater in winter might see an average of 230 miles. In warmer weather, with efficient driving and minimal HVAC use, range can exceed 260 miles. The car’s energy consumption averages around 3.8–4.2 mi/kWh, which is competitive for its class.

Charging Options and Times

The ZS EV supports both AC and DC charging. On a standard 7 kW home wallbox, the 72.6 kWh battery charges from 10% to 100% in about 10 hours. Using a 50 kW DC fast charger, it can reach 80% in 42 minutes, while a 100 kW charger cuts that to 30 minutes—ideal for long journeys. MG includes a Mode 3 charging cable for public stations and a Mode 2 cable for domestic sockets.

Pro tip: To maximize battery longevity, MG recommends keeping the charge level between 20% and 80% for daily use. Use 100% only before long trips, and avoid frequent DC fast charging unless necessary.

Safety Features and Driver Assistance

Comprehensive Safety Suite

Safety is a key selling point of the MG Electric Car ZS. It earned a 5-star Euro NCAP rating in 2019 (based on the petrol model, but the EV shares the same structure and most safety features). Standard safety equipment includes:

• Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with pedestrian and cyclist detection
• Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW)
• Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with stop-and-go functionality
• Blind Spot Detection (BSD) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA)
• Driver Attention Alert to detect drowsiness
• Six airbags (front, side, and curtain)

The AEB system is particularly effective, with radar and camera-based sensors that react quickly to obstacles. In real-world testing, it successfully avoided collisions with stationary vehicles at speeds up to 30 mph. The ACC works well on motorways, maintaining a safe distance from the car ahead and even bringing the ZS EV to a complete stop in traffic jams.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Higher trims (like the Trophy Connect) add even more tech, including:

• 360-degree camera system with dynamic guidelines
• Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) that reads speed limits and displays them on the dash
• Automatic High Beam for improved night visibility
• Front and rear parking sensors

These systems work in harmony to reduce driver fatigue and enhance safety, especially in congested urban environments. The 360-degree camera is a standout feature, offering multiple views (bird’s-eye, front, rear) that make parking in tight spaces effortless.

Structural Safety and Crash Protection

The ZS EV’s body structure uses high-strength steel in key areas, including the A-pillars and side sills, to protect occupants in side and frontal impacts. The battery pack is housed in a reinforced frame, with multiple sensors to detect impacts and automatically disconnect the power in a crash. This design has been tested in various crash scenarios, and the results are reassuring for family buyers.

Value for Money and Ownership Experience

Competitive Pricing and Trim Levels

One of the biggest advantages of the MG Electric Car ZS is its affordability. In the UK, it starts at around £28,000 (after the government’s Plug-in Car Grant, where applicable), with higher trims like the Trophy Connect priced at £32,000–£34,000. This undercuts rivals like the Kia Niro EV (£34,000+) and Peugeot e-2008 (£33,000+), while offering similar or better range and features.

Trim levels vary by market but typically include:

• Excite: Entry-level with basic infotainment, manual climate control, and 17″ alloys
• Exclusive: Adds leather seats, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging, and advanced ADAS
• Trophy Connect: Top trim with 360-degree camera, heated seats, and premium audio

For buyers on a budget, the Excite trim offers excellent value, while the Trophy Connect justifies its price with a near-premium experience.

Running Costs and Incentives

EVs are inherently cheaper to run than ICE vehicles, and the ZS EV is no exception. With an average energy cost of £0.15 per kWh, a full charge (72.6 kWh) costs around £10.90, equating to £4.50–£5.50 per 100 miles—a fraction of petrol costs. Maintenance is also simpler: no oil changes, fewer moving parts, and regenerative braking that extends brake life.

Additional savings come from:

• Exemption from UK road tax (VED) for the first year
• Congestion charge and ULEZ exemption in London and other low-emission zones
• Reduced company car tax (Benefit-in-Kind) for business users

Warranty and After-Sales Support

MG offers a 7-year/80,000-mile warranty on the ZS EV (whichever comes first), which is one of the best in the industry. The battery is covered for 8 years or 100,000 miles, with a guarantee that it will retain at least 70% capacity. This long warranty provides peace of mind and enhances resale value.

Service intervals are every 18,000 miles or 2 years, and MG has been expanding its service network to support EV owners. The brand also offers free roadside assistance for the first 3 years.

Data Summary: MG ZS EV Key Specifications

Specification	Detail
Motor Power	130 kW (176 hp)
Torque	280 Nm
Battery Capacity	72.6 kWh (current model)
WLTP Range	Up to 273 miles (439 km)
0–60 mph	8.2 seconds
DC Fast Charging (10–80%)	30–42 minutes (100–50 kW)
AC Charging (10–100%)	10 hours (7 kW)
Boot Capacity	448–1,166 liters
Warranty	7 years / 80,000 miles
Starting Price (UK)	£28,000 (after grant)

Conclusion: Is the MG ZS EV Worth It?

The MG Electric Car ZS is more than just a budget-friendly EV—it’s a well-rounded, practical, and technologically advanced SUV that delivers exceptional value. Its competitive pricing, generous range, spacious interior, and comprehensive safety suite make it an ideal choice for families, commuters, and first-time EV buyers alike. While it may not have the brand prestige of a Tesla or the driving dynamics of a BMW, it excels in areas that matter most to everyday drivers: reliability, usability, and affordability.

Whether you’re navigating city streets, embarking on a weekend adventure, or simply reducing your carbon footprint, the ZS EV proves that electric mobility doesn’t have to be a compromise. With its long warranty, low running costs, and growing charging infrastructure, it’s a smart long-term investment. In a market crowded with overpriced EVs, the MG ZS EV stands out as a true value champion—a car that doesn’t just meet expectations, but exceeds them. If you’re looking for an electric SUV that offers range, features, and value in equal measure, the MG ZS EV deserves a top spot on your shortlist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the range of the MG Electric Car ZS on a full charge?

The MG ZS EV offers a range of up to 263 miles (WLTP) on a single charge, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and weekend trips. The real-world range may vary based on driving habits and conditions.

How fast can the MG ZS EV charge, and what charging options are available?

The MG Electric Car ZS supports DC fast charging (50kW), reaching 80% charge in just 40 minutes. It also includes standard AC charging (7.4kW), ideal for home or public stations.

What are the standout features of the MG ZS EV compared to other electric SUVs?

The MG ZS EV stands out with its spacious interior, 10.1-inch touchscreen, and advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control. Its competitive pricing and 7-year warranty add significant value.

Is the MG ZS EV suitable for long-distance travel?

Yes, thanks to its 263-mile range and widespread DC fast-charging compatibility, the MG ZS EV handles long trips well. Plan charging stops using apps like Zap-Map for optimal convenience.

How does the MG Electric Car ZS perform in terms of acceleration and handling?

The ZS EV delivers 143hp and 353Nm torque, offering smooth, responsive acceleration (0-60mph in 8.2s). Its compact SUV design provides confident handling and a comfortable ride.

What is the price of the MG ZS EV, and does it qualify for government incentives?

The MG ZS EV starts at £30,495 (UK), with potential savings from the Plug-in Car Grant. Pricing varies by region, but it remains one of the most affordable electric SUVs.