MG ZS EV 2022 car review

Images supplied by MG. 

Model: MG ZS EV 
Engine: Electro synchronous motor
Transmission: Automatic
Power: 130kW / 280Nm
Range: Up to 320km
Acceleration 0 – 100km/h: 8.8 sec
Price: From $49,990
Status: Available

Introduction

We were excited to take MG’s new 100% electric mid-sized SUV for a bit of a (clean) spin around Auckland for this review. Interestingly, MG were one of New Zealand's new vehicle importers to offer a fully electric vehicle for under $50K in 2020, opening the doors for more affordable EV uptake.

Three years on, the new MG ZS EV entry model Excite is still priced under $50k, while the higher spec’d Essence comes in at $53,990. Note this is without the Clean Car Rebate factored in, making it an attractive price. So, with that pricing in mind, it’s time to take a look at what bang you get for your buck.

Firstly, we were happy to discover that these new models offer more range with 320km on a charge – quite a significant increase compared to its predecessor which only allowed for 263kms between charges.

All the ZS EV models come fitted with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, which includes classier graphics than before and more connectivity. We were pleased to not experience any glare from such a massive screen, and selecting a destination was a breeze. Off we go!

Both the ZS MG models have the Pilot Driver Safety feature which senses your surroundings and keeps an eye out for unseen hazards. The Excite model features eight Active Driver safety features, including Automatic Emergency Breaking and Blind Spot Monitoring and the up-spec Essence model has two additional features.

Lastly, as you sit inside you really are in for a treat thanks to the panoramic sunroof – you literally become part of the surrounding skyline.

Exterior

Both the ‘Excite’ and ‘Essence’ models come in a range of five colours to suit all styles: our favourite is the Brighton Blue Metallic, but you can also take your pick from Sloane Silver Metallic, Diamond Red Metallic, and two standard paint options: Pebble Black and Dover White.

The MG's previous large front grill is replaced by a makeshift look grille that's colour coded to the body giving it a distinctive look and setting it apart from its ICE (internal combustion engine) siblings. We see this as a unique touch as that really screams “I am an EV!”.

While the exterior of both models is not new, it certainly fits into the MG family. It’s plain and simple, like a reliable friend that will let you borrow their trailer. So, while it may be attractive for some people, it might not excite others to much. We think MG have a real opportunity here to make the exterior stand out a bit more in future models, to give it that pop on the road.

Interior

Sitting inside this car the first thing you will notice is the red stitching, which you may see as premium or sporty – we will let you decide. The interior is designed to be friendly and comfortable and thankfully, this is certainly what the ZS EV delivers.

The infotainment system is now a 10.1inch floating touchscreen in the cabin, with a 170-degree viewing angle and a reduced reflective rate. As the bright New Zealand sun glared down, we felt this really was quite easy on the eyes.

While driving around Auckland’s busy roads the seats kept us pretty comfortable – no major complaints there. We would imagine the lofty driving position will be appreciated by SUV buyers, but taller drivers will wish for some more reach adjustment in the steering as this vehicle has no telescope option – only up and down. Having no height adjustment in the passenger’s seat does give you the feeling of being a little higher than the driver. (which could be a good or a bad thing!)

We thought the interior aligns itself with competitors of the MG. It seems to us that it is designed with comfort and support in mind. It has a spacious interior for a compact SUV, and if you planned out the right charging stations stops, there is no reason why you couldn’t take the whole family on long-distance trip.

Performance (inc. efficiency)

Improvements to the battery has allowed for 50.3kWh delivering 130kW power and 280Nm torque delivered to the front wheels.

As we drove onto the motorway and increased speed, we noticed the vehicle’s handling slowly drop away giving you a kind of willowy feel. It seemed more at home at lower city speeds but maybe with a few more passengers it might have a different outcome.

The MG ZS EV has three driving modes: Eco, Normal, and Sport, giving you the ability to adjust to various driving conditions.

It’s also well suited for those weekend rubbish dump trips or hooking up a jet ski for a day out on the water, as the MG ZS EV SUV has the option to tow up to 500kg.

Specs

Powered by a 50.3kWh, liquid-cooled, lithium-ion battery, the ZS EV delivers 280Nm of instant torque, 130kW of power and can go from 0-100 in 8.2 seconds.

Vehicle to load (V2L) has a 2.5kW power output, which is a nice touch if you want to take the MG out camping. You’ll be able to turn your MG into a mobile battery pack – boil a kettle or charge your laptop with your car. Pricing to come for this cable as it is a factory extra.

The MG ZS EV also comes with a seven-year warranty for your peace of mind. Service costs are due to be released in the coming weeks.

New on-board charging capabilities means up to 80% charging time in as little as 54 minutes, based on a 50kW combined charging system (CCS).

Sign-off

MG have dubbed the ZS EV ‘New Zealand’s most affordable EV’ and we do have to agree.

The ‘Excite’ model is a great entry level into the EV market for a mid-size SUV. Priced at an unrivalled $49,990 drive away price, and once you apply the Clean Car Discount of $8,625, it brings the Excite in under $42,000. It also comes with a 320km range on a full charge.

So, if you are in the market for a compact SUV and appreciate comfortable and detailed interiors over whizz-bang exteriors, excellent safety features then this urban adventurer may very well appeal to you.

If you would like to get your hands on one, MG has 14 dealers around the country to assist with all your enquires. Visit the MG website to find your nearest dealership: https://mgmotor.co.nz

Pros:

• Price
• size
• Visibility
• Passengers Rear leg and head room.

Cons:

• Wind noise at motorway speeds
• Didn’t feel stable at speeds above 80km

Safety systems

• 6 airbags 
• ABS with Electronic Brake Force Distribution
• Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) 
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP) 
• Active Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
• Side impact absorbent door padding (front doors) 
• Pretension and load limiting front seat belts 
• Seatbelt warning indicator lights – Front & Rear 
• Three rear 3-point seatbelts 
• Hill launch assist 
• Rear seat child restraint anchorage points 
• Electric rear door child safety locks 
• Automatic door unlocking in accident 
• Automatic activation of hazard lights under
• Emergency braking
• Ultra-High tensile steel cage body
• Intrusion minimizing and collapsible steering column

Find out more on how the AA can help you when buying a new car:

• AA Money - aa.co.nz/money
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• AA Car Reviews - aa.co.nz/car-reviews
• AA Running Cost Reports - aa.co.nz/runningcosts

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