MG ZS 2017) (facelift 2020 ZST 1.3i (156 Hp) Automatic


Overall Rating

7.8 / 10
Safety 5.0 / 5
Engine 3.0 / 5
Value 4.5 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.5 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

MG ZS:

The MG ZS is a subcompact crossover SUV produced by the Chinese automotive manufacturer SAIC Motor under the British MG marque. Announced at the 2016 Guangzhou Auto Show in China, the MG ZS is the second SUV to be produced under the MG marque after the MG GS. It is positioned below the larger HS, and above the smaller MG 3 hatchback. Since 2018, the ZS is available with a battery electric version called the ZS EV or in China, the EZS. In 2025, the hybrid version of the ZS was awarded Best Hybrid Car by British motoring magazine Carbuyer....(Read more on Wikipedia)

2017) (facelift 2020 Overview:

MG ZS (2017) (facelift 2020). With 230 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. Weighing only 1295 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

ZST 1.3i (156 Hp) Automatic Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

This 1.3-liter turbocharged engine is the most potent option, delivering significantly improved performance and making the ZS feel much more capable on highways and for overtaking. It transforms the driving experience.

Fuel Economy

While offering the best performance, the 1.3i engine maintains reasonable fuel efficiency for its power output, though it will naturally consume more than the smaller engines, especially under heavy acceleration.

Best Use Case: Mixed Driving / Highway

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Excellent value for money and standard features
  • • Spacious interior and large boot capacity
  • • Comfortable ride quality for daily commuting
  • • Long manufacturer's warranty provides peace of mind
  • • 5-star Euro NCAP safety rating (2017)
  • • Improved styling with the 2020 facelift

Cons:

  • • Base engines can feel underpowered, especially on highways
  • • Interior materials can feel cheap in some areas
  • • Real-world fuel economy might be higher than official figures
  • • Automatic transmission can be sluggish (1.0T)
  • • Brand perception might still be a hurdle for some buyers

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(EV (facelift 2021): October, 2021 - ).

General:
Brand:MG
Model:ZS
Generation:2017) (facelift 2020
Modification (Engine):ZST 1.3i (156 Hp) Automatic
Start of production:September, 2020
End of production:2024
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Engine systems:Start & Stop System
Power:156 Hp @ 5200-5600 rpm. [0hp less]
Power per litre:115.6 Hp/l [worst than previous generation]
Torque:230 Nm @ 1800-4400 rpm.
Engine displacement:1349
Number of cylinders:3
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:4
Fuel injection system:Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection
Engine aspiration:Turbocharger, Intercooler
Engine oil capacity:4.6 l
Coolant:6.4 l
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Emission standard:Euro 5
Weight-to-power ratio:8.3 kg/Hp, 120.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:5.6 kg/Nm, 177.6 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:1295
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:1187 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:359 l
Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%):500 kg
Fuel tank capacity:45 l
Permitted trailer load without brakes:500 kg
Size:
Length:4323 mm
Width:1809 mm
Height:1653 mm
Wheelbase:2585 mm
Ride height (ground clearance):154 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears6
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesVentilated discs, 280 mm [Best for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDisc, 280 mm
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Tires size215/55 R17
Wheel rims size7J x 17
Front suspensionIndependent type McPherson
Rear suspensionTorsion

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