The steep upfront cost of an electric car continues to be a barrier for many looking to make the switch to an EV.
However, MG has successfully managed to show it doesn’t have to be the case, with its more affordable MG5 and ZS EV being far more affordable options. It’s the latter model that’s proven particularly popular, with its roomy interior and generous equipment levels really appealing to buyers.
However, it previously was let down by a compromised range, due to MG using a smaller battery. That’s something MG has now addressed with a new, facelifted model, which also gets a smarter design and higher-quality interior as part of the update. Here’s what you need to know about the MG ZS EV before buying…
What powertrains are available?
MG offers two different battery options on the ZS EV – the standard car and a Long Range version. The more affordable option uses a 51.1kWh battery offering a claimed 198 miles of range and the latter option features a large 72.6kWh unit that enables an impressive range of 273 miles. Both of these are noticeably more than the old version, which used a 44kWh battery and offered a 163-mile range.
Despite the difference in batteries, each car uses the same electric motor, but due to the different operating voltages of the batteries, the power does vary slightly – the regular car producing 174bhp and the Long Range version offering 154bhp. Torque remains the same at 280Nm.
In terms of performance, both cars can hit 60mph in around eight seconds and reach a top speed of 108mph, while in terms of charging, the ZS EV’s battery can be topped up to 80 per cent capacity in as little as 36 minutes when using a 100kW public charger. Charging times vary between eight hours (standard car) and 10.5 hours (Long Range) if charged using a home 7kW wallbox.
What trim levels are offered?
MG offers three trim levels on the updated ZS EV – SE, Trophy and Trophy Connect. Equipment highlights and prices are as follows.,
SE – from £27,495 (including grant)/£29,495 (including grant – Long Range)
All ZS EV models come with plenty of equipment, such as keyless entry and start, a 360-degree parking camera, electric folding mirrors and a large 10.1-inch touchscreen with satellite navigation and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You also get rear parking sensors, automatic air conditioning and 17-inch aero wheels, along with MG’s excellent ‘Pilot’ driver assistance pack, including features like lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control.
Trophy – from £29,995 (including grant)/£33,495 (Long Range)
Upgrade to the Trophy and you get a raft of extra kit, including an upgraded sound system, leather-style upholstery, heated front seats and an electric driver’s seat. You also get more attractive silver roof rails, along with blind spot monitoring, a wireless smartphone charger and a panoramic sunroof.
Trophy Connect – from £30,495 (including grant)/£33,995 (Long Range)
At the top of the range, the Trophy Connect packs additional technology including live traffic and weather updates, as well as easy access to Amazon Music.
What about personalisation?
There are plenty of reasons to choose the ZS EV, but personalisation isn’t its strongest attribute. That said, there are five different colours to choose from, including the bright Battersea Blue and Dynamic Red.
The accessories range is quite limited too, with your main choices being various floor mats and a spare wheel, which could come in useful.
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