Since MG was officially revived in 2011, this British marque has become known for its value offerings, which have only kept improving since.
Its latest models – comprising of the MG3 hatch, MG ZS crossover and MG HS SUV – continue to offer fantastic value for money, and that has recently expanded into the EV world with the launch of the new ZS EV, which is one of the most affordable electric cars on sale today.
Here we compare the new EV with the petrol-powered ZS to see which version is right for you.
Powertrains
Go with the regular ZS and you can pick between two petrol engines. The first is a naturally-aspirated 1.5-litre unit developing 104bhp, with MG also offering a turbocharged 1.0-litre unit, which produces 109bhp. The less powerful engine of the two is surprisingly the quickest – taking 10.4 seconds to accelerate from 0-60mph. The non-turbocharged unit is surprisingly the cleaner of the two as well – returning a claimed 41.5mpg, along with CO2 emissions of 140g/km.
As for the ZS EV, this features an electric motor producing 141bhp, which is paired to a 44.5kWh battery. This enables a combined electric range of 163 miles, though MG says it can manage up to 231 miles around town. The instant torque of the electric motor also makes the ZS EV much quicker than the regular ZS, with 0-60mph taking just 8.3 seconds, though the top speed is capped at 87mph.
The ZS also comes with 50kW rapid charging capability as standard – meaning its batteries can be topped up to 80 per cent in just 40 minutes, while using a 7kW wallbox at home, the ZS EV can be topped up in 6.5 hours, which is ideal for an overnight charge.
Styling
MG was keen to ensure that the new ZS EV looks similar to the regular model, so the electric version retains the same stylish look as the regular model. But there are a few subtle changes that you can spot if you know where to look.
The most obvious is the ‘Pimlico Blue’ body colour – a new shade only available on the EV. It also features a tweaked grille that houses the charging point and a badge that flashes while the car is on charge. New 17-inch alloy wheels also complement the look – giving the EV just enough road presence to stand out.
Practicality
When manufacturers historically convert their regular combustion-powered models to become EV, it can often be at the expense of spaciousness and practicality. Not so with the ZS EV, which is by far one of the most spacious electric cars available – particularly at this price.
The standard ZS is already one of the larger compact SUVs on the market, so if you’re looking for a family-friendly electric car, this MG is ideal. With a 448-litre boot and loads of room for rear passengers, it scores hugely next to smaller and more expensive rivals. Hidden storage areas next to the regular ZS only adds to the appeal.
But in short, you won’t really notice any difference in terms of practicality between the electric and petrol model.
Prices
The ZS is one of the most affordable crossovers on the market today, with prices starting from just £12,495 for the ZS in Explore trim, which still features LED daytime running lights, cruise control, automatic lights and Bluetooth.
With current offers, the ZS EV costs from £21,995, after the government’s £3,500 electric car grant and MG’s current offers. While that is admittedly far more expensive than the normal ZS, it’s worth considering this is one of the most affordable electric cars on sale today.
The trim levels are different on the versions, too, with the ‘Exclusive’ coming particularly well-specced – offering an electric driver’s front seat, an electric sunroof, heated front seats, rear cross traffic alert and blind spot monitoring.
