MG ZS

Given that none of the MG ZS’ available trims (there are four in all) break the PHP 1 million barrier, it’s surprising to see that the fit and finish of the interior surfaces can practically compete with many of its pricier counterparts. The controls not only feel durable—they are easy to reach and use. The same can’t be said about the 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Though the display is HD, there’s a bit of a lag when you press the controls. Good thing it offers Apple CarPlay connectivity.

Here’s another good thing about the ZS—it’s got one of the roomiest cabins around. If the rest of your family leans on the hefty side, you’ll definitely appreciate the enviable legroom and headroom that the ZS gives all of its occupants, both front and rear. And storage space is not too shabby, either, with 448 liters with the third row up. Unfortunately, MG doesn’t give any figures when the seats are stowed away.

Looking at the MG ZS façade, it’s hard not to notice its similarities with Mazda’s SUVs such as the CX-3 and CX-5. Then again, which carmaker isn’t guilty of copying from their competitors at one time or another? Should MG be accused of lack of originality, at least it’s deriving its cues from a winning design.

The MG ZS measures 4314 mm in length, 1809 mm in width, and 1648 mm in height, with a 2585 mm wheelbase and ground clearance of 164 mm. Though the overall aesthetic won’t necessarily turn any heads, the car does look contemporary, and won’t be out of place when placed side by side with other cars in its segment. 

The MG ZS boasts precise steering, and the grip is solid when the car takes on corners. While the handling is impressive, the same can’t be said about the ride quality—it feels uneven, even at slow speeds. There’s also more road noise transmitted to the pedals and steering at high speeds. Nevertheless, the razor-sharp handling will probably render the middling ride negligible for most drivers.

The MG ZS comes in two powertrains in the international market, but locally, only the naturally aspirated 1.5-liter DVVT engine is available. Rated at 112 hp and 150 Nm of torque, this engine is paired with either a 4-speed automatic transmission with manual tiptronic function or a more traditional 5-speed manual gearbox. This setup sends its power solely to the front wheels. A multi-port fuel injection system delivers better fuel efficiency while ensuring optimal power output.

The combination of front-wheel-drive configuration, front MacPherson struts, torsion beam rear, and a ventilated disc/solid disc brake system combo equips the MG ZS with some high-quality braking that transmits responsively on the road, thanks to the use of low-resistance tires. The lowest trim (MT Style) uses 16-inch wheels, while the three upper trims (AT Style, AT Style Plus, AT Alpha) rolls on 17-inch rubbers. While the brakes provide reliability during emergencies, the ZS safety cage, made of ultra-high-strength steel, absorbs and dissipates energy from impact. Safety is further enhanced by advanced driver assistance systems such as vehicle dynamic control, traction control, hill hold, and brake disc wiping.

The ZS price tag ranges from PHP 818,888 to PHP 898,888. In terms of practicality and spaciousness, it’s an immediate winner. As long as you’re okay with the MG ZS’ pedestrian visuals and ordinary ride quality, you’re unlikely to be disappointed should you decide to make this subcompact crossover your next family car.