CarExplore Review

7.8 /10

Expert Scorecard

Media Expert Rating:
7.8 /10
Safety Rating:
7.0 /10
Eco Rating:
7.5 /10
Reliability Rating:
7.5 /10
Cost of Ownership:
8.5 /10
How are our Review scores calculated?

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Summary

The 2025 MG ZS heralds a fresh generation of one of Australia’s best-selling small SUVs, now led by a hybrid-only lineup (for the time being). This updated model sports a smarter, more user-friendly cabin, complete with a 12.3-inch touchscreen sporting simpler climate controls.

Under the bonnet, a 1.5-litre four-cylinder hybrid setup yields combined outputs of 158kW and a thrifty official figure of 4.7L/100km, though real usage hovers near 5.2L/100km. The quiet, fuss-free hybrid transitions impressed us, though some road noise and slight wind whistles remain.

With more flexible cabin room than some small SUV rivals, plus a 10-year warranty and a drive-away price from $33,990, the all-new ZS slots neatly into the fiercely competitive compact crossover space, delivering both comfort and strong value.


Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Seamless hybrid system: good economy + decent punch
  • Much-improved infotainment with climate shortcuts
  • Spacious rear seat and cargo area for a small SUV
  • 10-year warranty, sharp servicing costs

Cons

  • Some wind/road noise above 50km/h
  • Plain exterior design not as bold as some rivals
  • Steering can spin wheels if you accelerate out of corners
  • No wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, no wireless charger

Specs

  • Body Style: 5-door small SUV (FWD)
  • Platform: Shared with new MG 3 hatch
  • Launched: Late 2024/early 2025 in Australia

Engine/Battery:

  • 1.5L 4-cyl petrol (75kW/128Nm)
  • Electric motor (100kW/250Nm)
  • Total system power: 158kW, 465Nm
  • 1.83kWh battery

2025 MG ZS Price

Pricing – 2025 MG ZS Hybrid+

Drive-away pricing

ZS Hybrid+ Excite $33,990
ZS Hybrid+ Essence $36,990

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Interior & Features

Prominent in the new ZS cabin is a 12.3-inch touchscreen with simplified climate shortcuts. A digital instrument cluster (12.3-inch with a 7.0-inch central screen) provides modern readouts.

Even base Excite has cloth upholstery, 6-way manual driver seat, wireless connectivity via iSmart phone app, and a 360° camera. The Essence adds a panoramic roof, leather seats (heated up front), and power driver’s seat. Both get MG Pilot driver aids plus a five-seater layout with 60:40 rear folding.


Engine & Fuel Economy

1.5-litre four-cylinder pairs with a 100kW electric motor and 1.83kWh NCM battery for a combined 158kW, 465Nm via a front-drive multi-speed hybrid transmission.

The official figure is 4.7L/100km with real usage ~5.2. MG recommends 95 RON premium unleaded. Acceleration is smooth, especially up to ~30km/h in pure EV mode.



Expert Media Reviews

CarExpert – 2025 MG ZS +

Score: 8.1 / 10

"Another brand is entering Toyota’s hybrid turf, with the new MG ZS small SUV landing with a refined and efficient new electrified powertrain."

Link: Read review

Chasing Cars – 2025 MG ZS Essence Hybrid +

Score: 7.5 / 10

"MG’s new small SUV hybrid sets a strong mix of performance and economy. Some subtle NVH concerns remain."

Link: Read review

Drive – 2025 MG ZS Hybrid +

Score: 7.4 / 10

"Smooth EV-like drive for city commuting at a competitive price, but limited dynamic engagement and some cabin noise hamper the package."

Link: Read review

CarsGuide – 2025 MG ZS Hybrid +

Score: 7.1 / 10

"MG’s refined new system cuts fuel use and raises cabin appeal, though direct steering quirks and styling anonymity remain disappointments."

Link: Read review

Think we're missing a review? add it here!


Safety Rating

The new MG ZS is yet to be tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP. MG aims for high scores with 6 airbags, MG Pilot (AEB w/ped, cyclist, intellispeed), blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keep assist, 360° camera, and adaptive cruise control. More details on local crash testing TBA.


Reliability Rating

Chinese MG sets a 10-year, 250,000km warranty on the new ZS, along with modest service fees. The brand’s surging popularity suggests decent parts availability, though as a new platform, real-world reliability data is still forthcoming.


Cost of Ownership

  • Warranty: 10 years / 250,000km
  • Servicing: 12-month / 15,000km intervals
  • 5-year service total: $144 (1yr), $304 (2yr), $208 (3yr), $432 (4yr), $144 (5yr)
  • Fuel: 95 RON

MG’s iSmart brings in-app functions for lock/unlock, climate pre-conditioning, and more for the first 12 months free. Additional connected subscription details TBA.


Conclusion

The 2025 MG ZS reaffirms its status as a budget-friendly small SUV, now significantly updated with a refined hybrid powertrain, bigger modern infotainment, and a comfortable cabin with more intuitive climate shortcuts.

While the design is conservative and some on-road noise intrudes, the new system’s smooth transitions, decent real-world efficiency, and strong standard equipment—and a 10-year warranty—reinforce MG’s foothold in one of Australia’s hottest segments.

If you’re in the market for an affordable, fuss-free small SUV with hybrid smoothness and minimal driver frustration, the ZS Hybrid+ offers an attractive proposition at a price well below established Japanese hybrid rivals.


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