SAIC Motor has released teaser images of the new MG ZS, which will be unveiled in Europe on August 28th.
The second generation seems to draw heavily from the MG3 Hybrid, the compact “killer” introduced in spring 2023 (you can read our review here), both in terms of design and engine. Unlike the previous generation, which was only available as either a petrol or an electric vehicle, this new version will be exclusively hybrid.
What’s New with the MG ZS
One of the most significant changes is the powertrain: the new MG ZS will be offered exclusively as a hybrid. This marks a strategic shift from the past, where the ZS was available with both an internal combustion engine and an electric version. With the introduction of this new hybrid ZS, it is expected that the electric version will be replaced by the new MG S5, which has already been spotted during testing in Europe.
From the released teaser images, it’s noticeable that the new ZS’s design echoes that of the MG3, including the large grille, headlight design, and aggressive framing.
From the side, the new ZS seems to share many features with the first generation, although it is unlikely that it is merely an extensive facelift, considering that the previous model has been in production since 2017.
At the rear, the LED taillights remain similar to those on the MG3, and overall, the sporty design is further emphasized by exhausts integrated into the rear bumper and a spoiler that completes the roofline.
The Engine
Although powertrain details have yet to be officially confirmed, the new MG ZS is expected to share the same hybrid system as the MG3, with a total output of 195 HP. This setup is likely to be based on a 1.5-liter petrol engine with a maximum power of 75 kW and 128 Nm of torque.
The electric motor is expected to provide up to 100 kW or 136 HP of power and 250 Nm of torque, bringing the total combined output to 143 kW and 425 Nm. A 1.83 kWh battery is also expected to be included, just like in the sedan.
This new hybrid ZS continues MG’s trend of differentiating between the models sold in China and those intended for international markets. Initially, MG models sold abroad were often rebadged versions of cars from other SAIC brands, such as the MG5 in Europe, which is derived from the Roewe Ei5 sold in China.
However, MG has recently begun developing specific models for international markets, not available in China, as evidenced by the second generation of the MG3 and the MG HS. The new MG ZS also appears to follow this trend.
Additionally, the new ZS, along with the MG3, is part of SAIC’s plans to recover from the decline in sales of MG models, regaining ground in international markets.
