MG ZS EV: information, range, and price of the electric SUV

With the ZS EV, MG has successfully entered the electric vehicle market. Here is all the information you need to know about this Chinese SUV.

Launched in late 2019 in France, the MG ZS EV proved that the Chinese automotive industry is now capable of providing vehicles that meet European standards. The facelift in 2021 did not lead to a significant price increase, which remains well below that of competitors.

The Dimensions of the MG ZS EV

The MG ZS EV measures 4.32 meters in length, 1.8 meters in width, and 1.65 meters in height. These dimensions place it in the urban SUV category, comparable to a Peugeot e-2008, a Hyundai Kona EV, or a Kia e-Niro. The curb weight ranges between 1,570 and 1,620 kilograms, depending on the configuration.

The ZS EV has a trunk capacity of 448 liters, which is more spacious than that of the Peugeot e-2008 (405 liters) and the Kona EV (322 liters). Once the 3-seat bench is folded down, the volume increases to 1,166 liters.

MG ZS EV Engine and Battery

Since the facelift, MG offers two different batteries in the ZS EV: one of 51 kWh and another of 70 kWh. The first uses lithium iron phosphate chemistry, while the second is a lithium-nickel-cobalt-manganese battery.

The choice of battery affects the electric motor’s power: it delivers 177 hp when paired with the smaller one, and 156 hp with the 70 kWh battery. Tax horsepower (5 CV) and maximum torque (280 Nm) are the same across both. Performance is also similar between versions, with 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and a top speed of 175 km/h.

Range and Charging of the MG ZS EV

With the 51 kWh battery, the MG ZS EV can theoretically travel 320 km between charges (WLTP cycle). The 70 kWh version extends the range to 440 km. These figures are generally average for the category, although some competing models are slightly more efficient. For comparison, the WLTP range of an e-2008 is 345 km, and a Kona EV 64 kWh reaches 484 km.

Regardless of the version, the MG ZS EV comes with a built-in 6.6 kW charger. On a 7 kW outlet, a full recharge takes about 8 hours with the smaller battery, and 10.5 hours with the 70 kWh ZS EV. Using a fast charger, it takes around thirty minutes to go from 10% to 80%, for both versions. Since the 70 kWh ZS EV can handle a higher current (92 vs. 70 kW), there is no significant difference compared to the 51 kWh version.

What Price for the MG ZS EV?

Price is the strong selling point of this Chinese SUV. With a starting price of €32,990, it is far cheaper than its European or Korean rivals.

In terms of trims, MG offers two levels: Comfort and Luxury. Despite the affordable prices, equipment is quite comprehensive, even in the base configuration. The base model already includes LED headlights, automatic climate control, a 10-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay / Android Auto, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, heated front seats, and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Luxury trim adds 360° camera, wireless phone charger, blind-spot monitoring, panoramic sunroof, and other features.

The MG ZS EV is eligible for the eco bonus. It is guaranteed for 7 years or 150,000 km.

Technical Data Sheet of MG ZS EV & Competitors

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