MG may have taken its time making a proper contender for the subcompact crossover segment, but it’s ready and it’s finally here.
MG Philippines has just unveiled the ZS, the first of a series of new models showcasing the carmaker’s new design language. Morris Garages' new baby measures 4314mm long, 1809mm wide and 1648mm tall, placing it on the bigger end of its segment.
From afar, it’s noticeably more upmarket compared to its stablemates. The front is dominated by a bold upright grille with a slightly concave pattern, flanked by slim projector headlights which feature 23-LED daytime running lights. On the sides it gets sculpted surfaces, a prominent fender line which forms the shoulders, and prominent curvy haunches for a muscular look. It has matte black cladding which runs from bumper to bumper, over the arches and on its sills. Silver side trims brighten up the sides, too. The rear styling is very European, with narrow horizontal taillights and a centrally mounted MG badge which doubles as a hatch release handle.
The cabin is just as stylish as its exterior. Its sporty flat-bottom three-spoke steering wheel, stylized circular side A/C vents, and leather-trimmed dashboard and seats give it a premium touch. On the practical side, it has a roomy interior and comes with an adjustable split-level cargo floor.
Under its long sculpted hood is a 1.5-liter naturally-aspirated inline-four gasoline engine. It produces 118hp and 150Nm of torque—good numbers for its size. Power is sent to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission.
Standard features include airbags, ABS, keyless entry, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple Carplay, push-start engine button, and a power panoramic sunroof.
MG's new sub-compact SUV carries a P1,127,777 price tag, not bad considering the generous equipment. It’s available in three colors, Arctic White, Laser Blue and the eye-catching Dynamic Red. The other big news is the seven-year warranty that comes with every ZS; the longest offered in the country. Will this be a winner for MG Philippines? What do you think?
