The new-generation 2025 MG ZS has been revealed in Hybrid+ form ahead of its late 2024 Australian launch.
- Australian launch confirmed for late 2024
- Hybrid launching first, petrol models to follow in 2025
- No EV option this time, but the ZS EV will have a successor
MG has unveiled the new 2025 ZS small SUV, debuting with a familiar new look and enhanced hybrid technology.
The new ZS is available now in the UK, with an Australian launch expected to kick off closer to Christmas.
Hybrid Powertrain and performance
At launch, the ZS will be powered by the brand’s Hybrid+ system, the same setup found in the new-generation MG3 hatch.
This system combines a 75kW 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor for a combined 144kW and 250Nm of torque. On its own, the electric motor contributes 100kW, helping the ZS Hybrid+ claim a 0-100km/h of 8.7 seconds.
Fuel consumption for the 2025 MG ZS Hybrid+ is listed at 5.1L/100km (WLTP), with CO2 emissions of 115g/km.
The 2025 MG ZS Hybrid+ is equipped with a 1.83kWh battery, enabling short periods of pure-electric driving. The small battery is recharged via regenerative braking or the engine itself, eliminating the need for plug-in charging.
MG has confirmed that a petrol-only version of the ZS will be introduced into the Australian line-up in 2025, at some point after the hybrid’s launch.
An all-electric MG ZS EV variant will not be offered this time around. Instead, a new electric SUV based on the MG4 hatchback will replace the current ZS EV in MG’s line-up.
Styling and space
No surprise, the new MG ZS shares its design language with the only recently launched new-gen MG3 hatch and MG HS midsized SUV, with the brand’s evolved styling language led by a wide, distinctive front grille flanked by slim air intakes.
The front and rear are equipped with full LED lighting, and the lower bumper includes a contrasting section that emulates a skid plate.
While the new MG ZS’s boot space has decreased slightly to 443 litres (down 5 litres), it still surpasses several rivals in the compact SUV segment, including the Haval Jolion (430 litres), Mazda CX-30 (430 litres), Subaru Crosstrek (340 litres), and Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (405 litres).
Dropping the rear seatbacks increases the ZS’s cargo capacity to 1457 litres, offering an 82-litre boost over the previous model.
Features
Australian details are still to be announced, but in the UK, the MG ZS Hybrid+ is available in SE and Trophy trims.
Standard equipment includes a 12.3-inch central touchscreen (up from 10.1-inch in the current model) with built-in navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a seven-inch digital instrument display, a reversing camera, rear parking sensors, and keyless entry.
Opting for the Trophy trim adds 18-inch alloy wheels, a 360-degree surround-view camera, heated front seats and steering wheel, a six-way adjustable driver’s seat, and leather-effect upholstery.
When will the 2025 MG ZS go on sale in Australia?
The new-generation 2025 MG ZS is due in Australia before the end of 2024, although exact timing and details are still to be revealed.
Brad Chruszcz, National Sales Manager for MG Motor Australia, told Auto Daily today: “We are still on track to launch the hybrid (HEV) model in Australia before the end of this year. With a fresh design, premium interior and enhanced driving experience, the updated model will be sure to entice buyers in this segment. We’ll also be looking to launch the petrol variant next year, which we’re equally as excited about bringing to Aussie customers.”
The ZS has long been a popular offering in Australia, thanks in large part to its pricing and equipment. In its outgoing form, the ZS is one of Australia’s most affordable new cars, starring from around $23,000 for the Excite variant.
As a new-generation model, and following in the footsteps of the pricier new MG3, the new ZS is likely to start closer to $30,000 when it arrives.
Whatever its price, the new model’s arrival will be keenly awaited by the brand’s local arm, however, as year-to-date sales (up to end of July) of the MG ZS sit at 1815 – compared to 3852 for the same period in 2023.
MORE: 2025 MG HS REVIEW
MORE: ZS EV successor leaked
