Just how good is the MG ZS budget crossover?

The ZS budget crossover is the entry point to the MG brand, which recently returned to Mzansi. In this in-depth review, Ciro De Siena discusses what the MG ZS offers buyers looking for value, practicality and peace of mind in a new entry-level SUV.

The 1st-gen MG ZS small crossover was launched in 2017, facelifted in 2019 and succeeded by the 2nd-gen model in 2024. While the latter is expected to arrive in South Africa in the not-too-distant future, its predecessor serves as a budget crossover model in our market. Ciro begins his review of the MG ZS by discussing the newcomer’s 2-variant line-up: the Comfort and the Luxury, both of which are powered by a naturally aspirated 84 kW/150 Nm 1.5-litre petrol engine mated with a 4-speed auto transmission.

See also: MG ZS & HS (2025) Launch Review

While his review highlights that in-gear shove isn’t a strength of the MG ZS – particularly when tackling hills or overtaking at speed – Ciro finds the Chinese offering well up to the task for typical urban driving.

He points out that, especially in city traffic, the MG ZS is easy to live with, offering light steering, good all-round visibility and the elevated driving position many buyers want from a small crossover.

Beyond the driving experience, the MG ZS offers impressive practicality. Ciro notes that the cabin feels spacious and airy for the ZS’ size and demonstrates the generous rear legroom and 359-litre load bay.

There’s ample storage, and the rear bench splits 60:40 to expand load-lugging capacity. These aspects make the MG ZS appealing for small families or anyone looking for flexible daily transport.

Inside, the MG ZS is kitted out with features you would expect at this price – electric windows, aircon, remote central locking and a touchscreen infotainment setup with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

The Luxury trim goes a step further, adding faux-leather seats and larger alloys for a more upmarket feel. Though some cabin plastics feel hard, Ciro finds this forgivable for a vehicle positioned in the budget crossover segment; the MG ZS competes with models such as the Kia Sonet, Haval Jolion, Hyundai Venue, Mahindra XUV 3XO, Nissan Magnite, Renault Kiger, Suzuki Fronx and Toyota Starlet Cross.

MG ZS Review: Front seats trimmed in leatherette

Safety is a strong point, with all versions coming equipped with 6 airbags, ABS with EBD, as well as electronic stability control (ESC). Ciro highlights that half a dozen airbags and ESC aren’t always fitted as standard on rival models, which gives the MG ZS a clear advantage for buyers seeking peace of mind.

*Ciro De Siena demonstrates the rear legroom in the MG ZS.*

Whereas MG Motor South Africa claims an average consumption figure of 7.1 L/100 km for the ZS, we found that real-world economy hovered just above 10 L/100 km, making the model slightly thirstier than expected, but Ciro confirms this figure should improve slightly as the car beds in with more mileage.

On the move, the MG ZS delivers a quiet and comfortable ride for its class, absorbing road imperfections well and feeling settled at suburban speeds. However, the automatic transmission is workmanlike, rather than slick, so you shouldn’t expect brisk acceleration or especially responsive open-road performance.

How much does the MG ZS cost in South Africa?

MG ZS 1.5 Comfort 4AT	R289 900
MG ZS 1.5 Luxury 4AT	R309 900

Prices (July 2025) include a 5-year/200 000 km warranty on the vehicle, a 7-year/unlimited km warranty on the engine, plus a 5-year/60 000 km service plan.

New MG ZS Specs & Prices in South Africa

Find a new/used MG ZS listed for sale on Cars.co.za

While the MG ZS is not the last word in driving thrills or high-end finishes, the Chinese brand’s budget crossover delivers what its target market wants: a keen price tag, plenty of features, notable practicality, lengthy warranties, plus a 5-year service plan. For budget-conscious buyers seeking a well-equipped, spacious and safe entry-level SUV with good after-sales support, the MG ZS is well worth a look.