The 2025 MG ZS hybrid, one of Australia's popular small SUVs, has received a four-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). This result comes as part of a recent batch of safety ratings released for eight new models entering the Australian market.
- The MG ZS hybrid scored 75% in Adult Occupant Protection, below the 80% minimum required for a five-star rating
- It performed well in Child Occupant Protection (84%) and Safety Assist (79%)
- The rating applies to the currently available hybrid variants of the new-generation ZS
Areas for Improvement
ANCAP CEO Carla Hoorweg highlighted specific areas where the MG ZS fell short:
- Lack of a centre airbag to prevent contact between front-seat occupants in side impact crashes
- Excessive forward movement of the rear passenger seat belt in full-width frontal tests
Other Safety Scores
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: 73%
- Child Occupant Protection: 84%
- Safety Assist: 79%
Industry Context
The MG ZS's four-star rating comes at a time when achieving a five-star ANCAP rating has become increasingly challenging, particularly for vehicles under $40,000. This has led to some industry pushback, with executives from brands like Mitsubishi and MG expressing concerns about balancing safety features with affordability.
As MG prepares to launch the new ZS in Australia, including the hybrid variant in 2025, this safety rating may impact consumer perceptions and potentially fleet sales. However, the vehicle's popularity and competitive pricing may still make it an attractive option for many buyers in the small SUV segment.
