MG ZS Trophy 51 kWh Review: Back to Basics

What we like:

Value for money

Smooth and comfortable ride

Increased range over the pre-facelift model

Practicality

What we dislike:

Interior deserves an update soon

When we first reviewed the MG ZS in 2020, the number of BEVs on offer in the market was relatively small compared to today. However, in today’s environment, as an entry level offering, the MG ZS faces a flurry of competition in the electric vehicle space. Here we take a look at whether its mid-life facelift has helped the ZS retain its rank as one of the better starter-BEV models out there.

The most noticeable difference you can observe between this and the pre-facelift model is the change to its front end. The facelift model now brings a sleeker front grille-less design, bringing it more in-line to the design of other EV models out there. The ZS also comes with a redesigned headlamp cluster, which looks sharper. Overall, these small updates bring a fresh look to the ZS – nothing too earth-shaking, but enough for you to notice.

Its interior pretty much remains the same as before – it is no frills and functional, with enough cubby holes and pockets for you and your family to store small items required for any trip around the island. There is an updated infotainment system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen. With its improved UI, it now houses settings for advanced driver assistance features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. CarPlay and Android auto is available, but only through a wired-connection, and it has a Qi wireless charger, which is a welcome feature in any car.

The changes also extend to under the hood, and the ZS now has a larger capacity 51 kWh battery, as opposed to the 44.5 kWh unit in the pre-facelift model, that brings its stated range up to 320km on paper. In real world testing, we find that you’ll be able to squeeze out between 280-290km on a full charge. Whilst this is a little lower than most rivals, the ZS has enough juice to last drivers at least 3 days of driving without needing to plug it in.

Just like before, the ZS offers occupants a comfortable ride. It is softly sprung and is smooth on our roads. Steering could leave you wanting more, but then again the ZS is not exactly targeted for the sportier types out there.

Boot space is fantastic, just like the pre-facelift model, and with knockdown seats, the ZS offers bounds of practicality. We love its panoramic glass roof – a premium touch, which gives its interior a sense of airiness and spaciousness.

The century sprint is completed in just under 10 seconds, a leisurely pace that is good enough for the daily drive. 280 Nm at the tap of the pedal is more than sufficient for most drivers, and its acceleration is smooth – unlike most other BEVs that jolt you off the line if you aren’t too careful with the throttle pedal.

At a retail price of $165,888, the MG ZS gives good value for anyone who is looking for a first car that is a BEV. The ZS will surely be compared with the BYD Atto 3, given that it is in the exact same segment. However, you can’t deny that its lower starting price is significant amongst the budget-focused, and you’ll struggle to find a checkbox that the ZS can’t tick as a small family run-about.

Photos by James Wong

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