Review: 2022 MG ZS EV

Review: 2022 MG ZS EV

MG introduced to the Australian electric vehicle (EV) market its first full-electric SUV in 2021 with the launch of the MG ZS EV. The release of this budget EV opened the market to eco-conscious drivers who’d previously been priced out by expensive battery technology.

In 2022, MG released its latest iteration of the ZS EV, further improving their electric-powered offering while retaining its first-rate affordability. We recently spent time with the base model Excite and were impressed with the results after putting it through its paces on Brisbane’s streets.

INITIAL IMPRESSION

The new MG ZS EV has retained its sleek and minimal styling from the previous year albeit with some minor updates. This includes a new nose that, like many other EVs on the market, has its grille replaced by a stylised solid panel. Stepping inside you find a basic but clean dashboard, well-cushioned seats and a steering wheel that feels nice in hand. It’s equipped with a push button start and an uncomplicated dial in the centre console for switching between drive, reverse, neutral and park modes.

DRIVEABILITY

The ZS EV offered a quiet and comfortable ride with smooth handling and the lively kind of acceleration expected from an EV. Three driving modes are available - Eco, Normal and Sport. Eco mode generates greater battery range by reducing the power sent through to the wheels, as well as reducing the power drawn by the air conditioning unit. At the other end of the scale, Sport mode delivers full power, producing an energetic and agile drive that will get you off the line at the traffic lights quicker, offering you some more excitement on your commute.

We were impressed with the upgraded battery range of the new model. At 320 kilometres, it is a significant improvement from the previous generation, although the displayed range will differ depending on the driving mode. 

The regenerative braking is a neat function albeit it’ll take a little bit with which to get acquainted. We found that by leaving this function at its highest level, commuting in heavy traffic was quite simple, as one pedal was all that was needed to accelerate and decelerate in heavy traffic.

LIVEABILITY

Despite its budget pricing, MG has created a sporty dashboard complete with red stitching and carbon fibre accents. It comes equipped with a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, plus both a USB-A and a USB-C charging outlet. We were happy to discover that the satellite navigation system is powered by Google Maps, so you will never have to deal with GPS outdated maps. The ZS EV also comes with a 360-degree camera as standard. The resolution of the camera is not the highest, however, it is serviceable for its needs.

We were impressed with the seats as they were pleasantly soft, providing plenty of comfort. There is plenty of space available in the back seats even for grown adults, plus rear occupants also receive dedicated air conditioning vents and USB-A and USB-C charging outlets. We were a bit let down by the fact that MG has decided to provide a tyre repair kit instead of a spare wheel however this does mean boot space is a premium with 359 litres of volume.

In the top-of-the-range Essence model, you’re treated with the luxury of heated front seats, a panoramic glass sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot protection and wireless phone charging.

Alongside the new model, MG has released their in-home charging hub which is available to purchase from Motorama MG when you pick up your new ZS EV. The MG ChargeHub comes in two levels. The 7KW version will set you back $1,990 (plus installation) while the 11KW hub is only an extra $100 and can easily be installed in your home by a qualified electrician. The 7KW ChargeHub will charge your ZS EV from 0% to full charge in eight hours, whilst the 11KW ChargeHub improves this to five hours for a full charge.

COST

The best thing about the MG ZS EV would have to be its exceptional price starting at just $44,990 for the Excite and $48,990 for the Essence. The range of EVs in this price range is very limited and, even then, none are as large as the ZS EV. 

At this price, the MG ZS EV is eligible for the QLD Government’s $3,000 EV Rebate meaning even more bang for your buck.

This may all sound too good to be true, but MG backs it up with a 7-year unlimited kilometre battery and vehicle warranty.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the new MG ZS EV is a tidy and stylish, no-nonsense, practical family SUV that is perfect for anyone looking to make the leap to an electric vehicle without breaking the bank. MG has done well to combine all the modern conveniences with a respectable battery range into a budget-friendly package that falls under the price limit for Queensland’s EV rebate scheme. This equates to a nice saving on your purchase of this as your electric vehicle of choice.

If you’re looking for an affordable EV, make sure you get in touch with Motorama MG to test drive the all-new MG ZS EV today.