A few days ago we attended the brand reintroduction of MG into the local market. The event (which we wrote about here) was held to announce the MG’s re-entry after a long absence. More recently, we were invited to drive the MG HS and ZS in the Western Cape as part of the automaker’s national ride-and-drive event. MG is also introducing the sleek and sexy Cyberster to its local portfolio. The roadster is battery powered and offers 375 kW of power from two electric motors. The Cyberster was on display at the event, but sadly not available for us to drive.

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MG ZS – The Opening Salvo

MG’s local line-up kicks off with the ZS. This is a small SUV/crossover in the same mould as the Chery Tiggo4 and Hyundai Venue, among others. The appearance is quite in keeping with others in this segment. MG tries to let onlookers know which brand this crossover belongs to by a large badge sited on the front grille. Apart from, what we think, are slight small looking wheels (perhaps a higher profile tyre would fill the wheelarch a bit better), the MG ZS will generally blend into the current sea of vehicles in this class.

Neat and Tidy

That same neat and tidy appearance of the exterior continues into the cabin. There is nothing particularly flashy about the interior. A touchscreen infotainment screen is neatly integrated into the facia. The instrument cluster features analogue dials and a monochrome info display. This give away the age of the ZS, which was introduced to the world several years ago. In some markets it has already been replaced. There is talk that the newer ZS could be sold here as a higher-spec version.

Standard features across the MG ZS range include air-conditioning, rear parking sensors, electric windows (one-touch for the driver), electric and heated door mirrors, remote audio steering wheel controls and cruise control. The aforementioned infotainment system also offers Bluetooth and Apple Carplay/Android Auto connectivity.

One Powertrain

The ZS range is being offered with a single powertrain in SA. This is a 1,5-litre petrol engine that is mated with a four-speed automatic transmission. MG SA says the naturally aspirated unit produces 84 kW and 150 N.m of peak torque. Our initial impression is that the powertrain lacks urge, certainly when overtaking. Stomping on the gas pedal makes the engine speed flare up as one of the (just) four ratios is selected. And one really has to stay on the gas to make safe overtakes. Otherwise, the cabin is a fairly pleasant place, generally well isolated. The ZS even rides rather well.

The real drawcard for many, however, will be the price (see below). Listed prices include a seven-year warranty (five years/200 000 km vehicle and seven years unlimited on engine) as well as a five-year/60 000 km service plan. MG expects the ZS to be the volume seller of its range. It is expected to make up a large percentage of 8 000 units MG SA is targeting in its first full year of operation.

MG HS – The Luxury Option

The HS is the car for you if the prospect of MG ownership entices you, but you have a larger budget at your disposal. The HS is also slightly larger, think Haval H6 and Chery Tiggo7. The styling, too, is a little more daring, in keeping with the aesthetic we’ve become accustomed to for Chinese-sourced cars. These include slim LED head- and taillamps, with a body-wide light bar in place at the rear as well. It is a striking design that stands out far more than its sibling.

The larger model has a more luxurious and high-tech interior as well. The seats, steering wheel and trim are covered in soft-touch materials. There are twin digital screens (infotainment and instrument cluster) ahead of the driver with neatly integrated air vents along the facia. It’s a neat, if somewhat familiar design, one that is a sign of the times. The MG HS is quite laden with extras. These include, among others, rain-sensing wipers, a 360-degree view camera, keyless entry and start, adaptive cruise control a panoramic sunroof, rear privacy glass, parking sensors, electric front seats with heating, dual-zone climate control, a powered tailgate and a wireless charger.

One Powertrain

Power in the HS comes from a more modern 1,5- turbopetrol motor. The engine produces 125 kW/275 N.m and sends power to the front axle through a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. This engine, although small, does a decent job of propelling the large-ish car along. This is thanks, in part, to the decent torque output from the turbocharged engine and seven ratios to transfer power. Ride quality here is quite commendable, easily soaking up larger road undulations we encountered on our route. We felt that the steering action was largely lifeless with only tyre squeal alerting to a loss in grip.

The MH HS is priced noticeably higher than its sibling. However, that price does include a seven-year/200 000 km warranty and a five-year/90 000 km service plan. Interestingly, the warranty and service plans on the MG HS and ZA are transferrable to the next owner should a vehicle be sold within the period.

MG HS and ZS Pricing

ZS Comfort – R289 900
ZS Luxury – R309 900

HS Comfort – R499 900
HS Luxury – R534 900