Reviews of the MG ZS Hatchback

by: Donna Kelly

Donna Kelly has over 14 years of experience in the motoring industry, writing, test driving and tweeting about cars. Her weekends are spent trackside, covering racing events.

MG ZS Review 2021

The MG ZS is a low-priced small family SUV with a spacious interior and practical boot space. It is a popular lease alternative to rivals such as the Nissan Juke, Renault Captur and the Mazda CX-3.

MG ZS review covers:

• Key Features
• Design and Practicality
• Interior and Trims
• Power and Performance
• Leasing vs Buying

MG ZS Key Features

• Stylish exterior features with chrome-highlighted grille and smart alloy wheels
• Comfortable interior with Apple CarPlay on selected models
• Impressive 448-litre boot with 60/40 split rear seats
• Two petrol engines with 106hp or 111hp
• Two models available, including Excite and Exclusive

Design and Practicality

At first glance, the MG ZS looks relatively ordinary from a design point of view. While its boxy exterior doesn't match rivals like the unique looking Nissan Juke or stylish Renault Captur, there are hints of style. Its chrome-highlighted grille, smart alloy wheels and parallel silver roof rails, in particular, stand out, mimicking its Japanese rival, the Mazda CX-3. 

In terms of headroom and legroom, the MG ZS beats the Captur and Juke for space but at the expense of any cupholders in the centre console and no centre-rear armrest, which some drivers might find disappointing. 

At the rear, the MG ZS has an impressive 448-litre boot, which is 90 litres larger than the Captur and Juke. This is more than enough space to carry a large baby buggy or the families suitcases for a week's trip. You also have the option to flip the back seats down, increasing the interior space to 1,375 litres, which is ideal for carrying a bike or other types of large cargo.

Interior and Trims

Inside, the ZS' interior is pleasing to look at and feels durable, although it's not quite as upmarket as the likes of the Mazda CX-3 or Nissan Juke. On the plus side, you get Apple CarPlay smartphone mirroring is standard on all but entry-level MG ZS models.

In terms of trim level, the line-up is simple, with just two models available. The entry-level Excite model comes with air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system and 17-inch alloy wheels. 

The range-topping Exclusive versions add satellite navigation, partial leather-trimmed seats, rear parking sensors and a reversing camera.

Power and Performance

All MG ZS comes with a range of petrol engines to suit every need, including the 1.5 VTI-TECH with 106hp and the 1.0T GDI engine, with or without six-speed automatic transmission for 111hp.

Despite its sporty heritage, current MG vehicles don't have much of a reputation for being fun to drive. Nevertheless, the ZS is reasonably comfortable on the road, with decent suspension that soaks up the bumps and potholes. The steering is fairly heavy in normal mode, but you can select Dynamic or Urban settings, which helps with agility on long rides.

Leasing vs Buying

Prices for the new MG ZS start from £17,163.50 OTR* or to lease from £192.15 per month.

Want to know more about leasing the MG ZS? Nationwide Vehicle Contracts is one of the UK's largest providers of car leasing. All of our lease deals include the full manufacturer's warranty, road tax for the duration of the contract, breakdown cover and free mainland GB delivery (exclusions apply). 

What's more, with fixed monthly rentals, a low initial outlay and flexible mileage and contract terms, leasing an MG ZS could be cheaper than you think.

*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and typically includes one year’s road fund license, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Always check with the manufacturer.