2025 MG ZS Hybrid+ Excite Review: Updates to this affordable SUV means the battery now stays charged, but it still left us feeling a little flat

Prior to now 12 months, the MG ZS compact SUV primarily served as reasonably priced rental fleet materials. Now, nevertheless, it aspires to draw a wider vary of automotive consumers in Australia, particularly with the introduction of a petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.

The earlier ZS EV has advanced into a brand new mannequin, the MG S5, which is about to launch in June. In the meantime, the main focus is now on the brand new ZS Hybrid+, which goals to impress.

The MG ZS Hybrid+ Excite stands because the extra economical of the 2 petrol-electric variations launched late final 12 months. On the time of its launch, it was priced at $33,990 plus on-road prices, however promotions allowed for a drive-away worth of $33,990, and it has since dropped to $32,990 drive-away.

In in search of readability on present pricing, a request was made to MG’s media staff ten days in the past, however a response was delayed. Finally, MG confirmed that the continued worth for the Hybrid+ Excite is certainly $32,990 drive-away.

Initially, it appears MG might need underestimated purchaser expectations when pricing the ZS. Presently, the ZS Hybrid+ faces competitors from equally priced hybrid fashions just like the GWM Haval Jolion, quite than higher-end hybrids just like the Hyundai Kona and Toyota Corolla Cross.

The ZS Hybrid+ earns its title because it capabilities extra like a spread extender than a standard hybrid. It primarily makes use of its e-motor for driving whereas using its 1.5-liter petrol engine to recharge the 1.83kWh battery pack, which is comparatively small and comes with limitations.

Commonplace options for the Excite mannequin embrace LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, cloth seat trim, single-zone local weather management, twin 12.3-inch digital panels, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, built-in navigation, and six-speaker audio. Whereas it contains the important security techniques, its ANCAP crash ranking is downgraded to 4 stars because of some grownup occupant safety points.

Upgrading to the Essence mannequin provides enhancements like a panoramic sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels, artificial leather-based seat trim, and a powered driver’s seat. Notably, there isn’t a spare tire out there for both mannequin.

The ZS Hybrid+ comes with a complete 10-year/250,000km guarantee, protecting the high-voltage battery. Service intervals are set at 12 months or 15,000km, and pricing for servicing is aggressive.

The ZS Hybrid+ might need had a sluggish begin in Australia partly because of some battery derating points reported after the launch. With the battery depleted, the petrol engine alone struggled, however MG rapidly carried out a software program replace, leading to improved efficiency throughout testing.

Though the preliminary expertise was typically clumsy, it proved extra favorable than the choice. The reworked drivetrain now presents a cooperative efficiency, with the e-motor offering substantial torque for metropolis driving.

Whereas we discovered the hybrid system to be fairly environment friendly throughout intensive testing, reaching a mean of seven.6L/100km, extra average driving would doubtless yield outcomes nearer to its 4.7L/100km common.

Sadly, the car requires 95 RON gas, limiting cost-saving prospects. Different driving elements, equivalent to a considerably harsh experience and overly heavy steering, can detract from the general expertise.

Lack of attain adjustment for the steering wheel is one other disadvantage, which is surprisingly unusual in a 2025 mannequin. Nonetheless, the inside boasts ample area for occupants and cargo, even when rear-seat passengers miss out on extra consolation options.

Total, regardless of MG’s formidable leap from the earlier era, the ZS Hybrid+ represents a stable enchancment, although it nonetheless falls wanting the highest rivals in its section.

Rating: 3.0/5