MG ZS

Overview

The Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) is surely the Philippines’s largest auto show that serves a fertile ground for big automakers to flaunt their latest nameplates. One such big name is the Chinese owned British automaker, MG Motor, which has the new SUV named MG ZS for the Philippines. Specifically, the vehicle falls under the sub-compact SUV segment and is also the company’s smallest crossover. It dresses in an endearing design and bags a wide array of standard features.

Drawing more light on its availability, it comes in three variants namely the 2019 MG ZS 1.5 Alpha A/T, 2019 MG ZS 1.5 Style A/T and the 2019 MG ZS 1.5 Style M/T. As suggested by the name, the first two have an automatic transmission, while the third gets a manual transmission.

In all the colour options, the MG ZS looks pretty handsome but particularly the Meteorite Black shines among all. Apart from the visible decorations and powerful coasting, a capable suspension and excellent brakes enhance everything to an unprecedented level.

Interior & Features

If one is not contented with the exterior, then the vehicle’s interior awaits with a plethora of stuff. Peeking inside one would notice premium taches like a stitched dashboard and chrome-ringed air-vents at both corners. The left end starts with a power steering wheel that has numerous buttons for easy system control. Behind that sits the information console followed by an infotainment display to its right. Below the display, there are adjustable dials and the gear level. Moreover, the infotainment system has the integration of Apple CarPlay. Leather upholstery is found on the seats and generally, good-quality materials have been used to design the interiors. The seats are larger and there are ample legroom and headroom for the driver and the passengers.

Exterior

The exterior is something that deserves the most share of the words about the car. To start with, there is a large honeycomb metal grille that houses the brand’s logo and is contoured by a thick chrome outline. It is flanked by LED headlights, which have split ring-shaped daytime running lights (DRL). Moving downwards, there is another opening of the grille followed by a bold bumper that integrates the foglights.

On its side, the windows have thick bezels and its bottom edge has a narrow silver line running all along to the end. The side profiles also get chrome skids below the front and rear door. This chrome finishing is also found on the roof rails.

On its back, the four-wheeler features LED taillights, which is illuminated by thick light strips. Its rear end is highlighted by a large bumper followed by an exhaust outlet.

Ride & Handling

A MacPherson unit with coil spring suspension at the front and Torsion Axle Beam unit with coil spring suspension at the back makes the suspension part. This does a great job in eliminating the irregularities of bumpy and uneven roads and ultimately provides a smooth riding experience.

The car runs on the 215/50R17 (or 205/60/R16) Maxxis Bravo tyres that offer surprisingly crisp handling and good stability.

Engine & Fuel Consumption

The car gets the new naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine. The mill churns out a maximum power of 114 PS at 6,000 rpm and a peak torque of 150 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The engine is mated to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission and the drive is delivered to the front wheels. If switched to the sports mode, the system allows more rpm, thanks to the unlocking of the torque converter clutch.

Braking & Safety

All the three variants get disc brakes for both front and rear. This offers an exceptional stopping power in any case. The brakes also get the backing of the anti-locking Braking System, which is always a great thing to have.

The vehicle also gets key safety features like central locking, keyless entry, brake assist and traction control standard across all variants.

Verdict

MG ZS deserves all worthy praise for its enchanting looks and for the presence of a hefty of features inside. It also doesn’t fail to provide ample comfort in every ride. Moreover, the equipment of capable braking system and essential features make this vehicle a great deal in its segment.

What's not great about the car is below the average power output that may disappoint a bit and also makes it lag behind much of its competitors.