MG ZS EV (2021) Review
Written by Justin Delaney, an Independent Reviewer, Journalist, and Motor expert.
It doesn’t seem all that long ago since we reviewed the electric powered MG ZS but already the company has refreshed the look and made it even more potent with better range and sleek new looks. After a strong year in 2021 where the MG ZS became one of Ireland’s ten best selling EV’s,
MG revamped the little SUV with a dedicated electric-only front end. It has a tasteful stamped-effect grille to improve aerodynamics and a new side-opening charge port instead of under the badge but sadly your hands are still going to get dirty! This new front end also gets sharp LED headlights and distinctive daytime running lights.
Moving around the vehicle you will notice new alloy wheels and a rear bumper that has also been reworked for a more modern look.
Features
The new MG ZS EV will continue to be offered in two trim levels: Excite and Exclusive and both offer decent levels of equipment. When you sit into the cabin you are greeted by a central 10.1-inch tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system with new graphics and improved functionality. We also noticed a new digital instrument cluster and wireless phone charging on our test car. Like so many other electric vehicles currently on Irish roads the ZS EV also gets over the air (OTA) software updates from MG.
Any new features and improvements can be got through the new MG iSMART connectivity system, which offers connection via a dedicated smartphone app rather than visiting your local dealership. You can set the air conditioning and heating or do things like activating the windscreen demister all from the comfort of your home or office before your journey. This app makes keeping an eye on charging status, statistics and schedule charging to optimise lower rate energy super easy! It’s not technology we are unfamiliar with after spending lots of time with Tesla’s but at this price point, it is incredibly impressive!
Battery & Range
Available with a larger 72.6kWh Long Range battery, this new MG ZS EV produces roughly 156hp with a range of up to 440 kilometres (WLTP combined cycle). These are substantial increases over its predecessor for customers driving longer distances. The combination Type 2 and CCS charger provides up to 7kW fast charging using the on-board AC charger, or up to 76kW DC rapid charging. This means the Long Range 72.6kWh battery can be charged from 0-100% in 10.5 hours on a standard wall box 7kW charger, or up to 80% in 42 minutes on a 100kW rapid charger.
This is a battery you can live with and even charge or power other external equipment using an accessory charging cable on that camping trip. Such is the power of the new MG ZS towing isn’t an issue either with a 500kg capacity. Small trailers or bicycle racks will not pose an issue to this vehicle.
Safety
Like the out going model all new ZS EVs feature MG’s suite of driver assistance technology to include Active Emergency Braking with Pedestrian and Bicycle Detection, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning System, Traffic Jam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Intelligent High Beam Assist. This safety package is known as MG Pilot and the Exclusive model also gets Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist.
MG ZS EV Prices
So how much will it actually cost to enjoy electric MG ZS ownership? Well lets kick off with the Excite model at just €31,995 (after grant and VRT relief). This impressive price point gives you automatic air conditioning, bi-function LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry and push-button start, 360 parking camera, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, sat nav, iSMART infotainment system and multiple USB charging points which is very impressive.
The Exclusive model is priced at €34,995 giving buyers a full panoramic ‘Sky Roof’ and leather-style seats, along with more comfort and convenience options such as heated front seats, electric driver’s seat adjustment, rain-sensing wipers, roof rails and wireless phone charging. Colour options include Brilliant Blue and Monument Silver, which are new to the range. Colours carried over from the previous generation include Arctic White, Black Pearl, and Dynamic Red.
All MG models, including the new MG ZS EV, are available with low rate 2.9%* APR PCP finance, a free home charge point and a charge cable.
Summary
I think it is fair to say, MG is a brand that’s making progress at a phenomenal rate across Europe. New models are coming thick and fast making market share here in Ireland grow month by month. The new ZS EV is a big jump on from its predecessor and we have no doubt it will do well against other vehicles in this segment.
To drive, it is comfortable and practical with decent ground clearance, good visibility and range that you can now live with. Cold weather is not your friend in electric powered vehicles so you really need a 72kw battery minimum, which the MG ZS now offers. Our test car was the Exclusive model in Brilliant Blue and it certainly turns heads. People are intrigued by the sight of MG’s back on Irish roads and even more so when they realise its an EV.
MG are now up to six dealers in Ireland so if you would like a test drive, be sure to log on to www.mg.ie to locate your nearest dealer. It’s hard to find better value in electric vehicles anywhere right now.
MG ZS EV Pros
Price
Spec
MG ZS EV Cons
Charging port location
To watch our YouTube video review please click here.
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