It's a bit upside down.
While all the others are developing their electric ranges to the detriment of conventional engines, MG is doing the opposite.
To its electric and plug-in hybrid models, the manufacturer adds one devoid of any electrification: the ZS “ICE”, acronym for Internal Combustion Engine, or internal combustion engine.
Before going any further, remember that the electric ZS had already recently benefited from a few modifications (finish, design, multimedia) which made it even more convincing.
And for us, the adoption of petrol engines (yes, in the plural) is the icing on the cake.
1.5 or 1.0
Buyers will have two choices: a 106 hp 1.5 block associated with a 5-speed manual gearbox, or a 111 hp 1.0, offered with manual or automatic gearbox, both 6-speed.
We tried the 111 hp with automatic gearbox, and discovered a vehicle that is still just as humble, but even more pleasant to live with than the electric version.
Because rid of the weight of the batteries, the chassis of the ZS takes better advantage of its good compromise between support and comfort, the accent being placed on the latter.
So here is a frankly pleasant little machine for those who are not looking for a particular character.
OK, not everything is perfect.
For example, the automatic gearbox tends a little too much to muzzle the performance of an engine that you feel is full of good will (to be checked with a manual gearbox), and it is Android Auto and Apple Car Play (as standard) that plug the holes in a somewhat basic multimedia system.
Romanian target
That said, both this aspect and the voluntary "forgetting" of certain driving aids (lane keeping or intelligent cruise control, for example) remind us of a direct competitor of the MG.
Indeed, the Dacia Duster takes the ZS right in the teeth.
Because with prices ranging from €17,490 to €20,990, it is only a few hundred euros more expensive than an equivalent Duster.
An additional cost which, for some, will be worth a more opulent interior presentation, and a badge which still enjoys a fairly flattering image.
It smells like the vehicle of conquest...
Automotive
Ford E-Tourneo: The electric for large families
Automotive
Meeting with the big boss of Opel: Electroshock!
The MG ZS 1.0 in a few figures
Engine: 3-cylinder turbo petrol, 999cc;
111hp at 5,200rpm;
160Nm from 1,800 to 4,700rpm.
Transmission: to the front wheels.
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
L/W/H (mm): 4.323/1.809/1.644
Empty weight (kg): 1.259
Trunk volume (l): 448 – 1,375
Tank (l): NC
0 to 100 km/h (sec.): 11.2
Max speed (km/h): 180
Cons.
Mixed (l/100km): 6.6
CO2 (g/km): 149
Price (€): 20,990
Automotive
MG
SUV
Essence