Second-gen MG ZS debuts in the UK with a hybrid mill

KUALA LUMPUR: The all-new second-gen MG ZS has made its world premiere in the UK. The new ZS is being offered in a fuel-saving hybrid powertrain with several significant cosmetic and tech updates inside and out. 

Speaking of the drivetrain first, the upgraded ZS combines a 1.5-litre naturally-aspirated petrol engine, an electric motor, and a 1.83 kWh battery pack. While the engine generates a power output of 102 PS and a peak torque of 128 Nm, the e-motor is good for making 136 PS and 250 Nm. The total system output is rated at 196 PS and 465 Nm of torque, which is enough to propel the hybrid ZS from zero to 100 kmph in 8.7 seconds. 

As per the reports, the second-gen SUV will also be offered in pure ICE-powered variants in other markets. The ZS EV is likely to be replaced with the upcoming MG S5, which is a higher-riding sibling to the MG 4 hatchback. In Malaysia, the ongoing ZS EV comes equipped with a PM Synchronous Motor supported by a 50.3 kWh Lithium Ternary CATL battery that offers a driving range of up to 403 km. 

Moving to the exterior changes, the next-gen MG SUV boasts a more aggressive front design with a restyled large grille and wider air damps. A full-width light strip connects the headlight clusters and incorporates sleek LED daytime running lights. The MG logo has been repositioned and now sits above the grille.

The rear benefits from a reworked bumper and redesigned tail lights along with the repositioned brand logo on the boot lid and an extended rear spoiler with an integrated stop lamp.

Inside, the new ZS benefits from a new dashboard layout housing a new steering wheel,  a bigger 12.3-inch infotainment unit, a 7-inch instrument cluster, and reshaped AC vents. The revamped centre console incorporates a new gear lever and electronic parking brake with auto hold.

The feature kit also includes - wireless smartphone connectivity, a Type-C charging port, automatic climate control, a wireless charger, a six-speaker sound system, privacy glass, heated front seats, and a 360-degree camera. Parts of the ADAS package are - autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist.

The all-new 2025 MG ZS Hybrid+ is offered in two variants - SE and Trophy, priced at GBP 21,995 (RM 125k) and GBP 24,495 (RM 139k) respectively.

Also read: Five new MG outlets to open soon in Malaysia