2025 MG ZS Small SUV: Turbo, Hybrid Options, and a New EV on the Horizon

The second-generation MG ZS small SUV is set to arrive in Australian showrooms by the end of the year, offering a range of powertrain options, including non-turbo, turbo, and hybrid versions. This new model builds on the popularity of its predecessor, which topped its segment last year, outselling the Mazda CX-30 two-to-one.

New Powertrain Options: Turbo and Hybrid

The 2025 MG ZS will offer more versatility than ever before, with government approval documents confirming the availability of three distinct powertrains.

1. 1.5-litre Four-Cylinder Petrol Engine: Expected to deliver 81kW and 142Nm of torque, similar to the engine in the current MG 3 hatch. This option caters to drivers who prefer a straightforward, non-turbo experience.
2. Turbocharged 1.5-litre Engine: This replaces the current 1.3-litre three-cylinder turbo found in the ZST. The new turbocharged option is expected to offer a more spirited driving experience while maintaining efficiency.
3. Hybrid Powertrain (ZS Hybrid+): A significant addition to the lineup, the ZS Hybrid+ combines a 75kW 1.5-litre non-turbo petrol engine with a 100kW electric motor, providing a total system output of 158kW. This marks the first time MG’s small SUV will be available with a hybrid option, positioning it to compete directly with hybrid rivals from Toyota, Hyundai, GWM Haval, Nissan, and Honda.

All these engines will be paired with a continuously-variable transmission (CVT), a shift from the previous four-speed torque-converter automatic in the non-turbo ZS and the six-speed torque-converter automatic in turbocharged ZST models. The hybrid variant will likely be front-wheel drive only, featuring a three-speed automatic transmission and a 1.83kWh battery pack.

Upcoming Changes: The End of the ZS EV

While the new MG ZS is embracing hybrid technology, it will not be offered as an all-electric vehicle. Instead, MG plans to replace the ZS EV with the new MG S5, an all-electric model built on the same dedicated MSP electric-car architecture as the MG 4 hatch. This change is set to happen in 2025, marking a shift in MG’s strategy towards more specialized electric models.

What to Expect in 2025

The new MG ZS is expected to be a larger vehicle with more standard features, including autonomous emergency braking, which has become mandatory for all newly-introduced cars in Australia. As a result, a price increase is likely compared to the current base model, which starts at $23,990 drive-away. However, this increase is expected to reflect the added value and improved safety of the new model.

UK reports suggest that the new MG ZS will be unveiled by the end of August, with first deliveries expected in October. This timeline is anticipated to align with the Australian market, where the new ZS will continue to strengthen MG’s presence in the highly competitive small SUV segment.

Stay tuned for more details as MG prepares to formally unveil the 2025 ZS in the coming weeks.