When Morris Garages (MG) Motors SA officially relaunched in SA in January 2025 it brought the HS crossover, Cyberster electric roadster, and the eight-year old first-generation ZS compact crossover.
The topic of this first drive impression is the second-generation MG ZS Pro launched internationally in 2024, and which officially went on sale here this week. It’s positioned in the hotly contested R360,000-R450,000 compact crossover segment with aims to offer plenty of specification, space and performance at a good price.
It’s got its work cut out competing against the popular Haval Jolion, Toyota Urban Cruiser and Kia Sonet that usually sell more than 1,000 units each month. It’s offered in two trim levels; the entry-level MG ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort and the top-range Luxury. It’s the latter specification that I’m driving, and the most notable change from the regular MG ZS model is the growth in size. The latest version is 116mm longer with a wheelbase that’s increased by 20mm to the benefit of interior space.
It felt adequately spacious for small families with a boot that’s wide and deep but with no electric tailgate, but the exterior styling departure is significant, too, and far from the Mazda-esque face of the preceding model. LED light clusters front and back, silver roof rails, 17-inch and 18-inch wheel alloys complete the look.
MG’s efforts to create an appealing interior include scratchy plastics interspersed with soft and luxuriant materials, with leatherette upholstery on the seats. The front pair of seats also come with electric adjustment and heating.
A row of physical function buttons and a modestly sized 12.3-inch colour main display are integrated into the dash. These eschew the modern minimalism and floating screens as found in many of the modern Chinese alternatives. The driver’s information binnacle is fully digital, with a basic rather than lavish presentation, and the apparent build quality of the ensemble is one of the best in the segment.
Standard amenities include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice control, storage compartments, air conditioning, electric windows, keyless start, sunroof and a rounded square multifunction steering wheel. The model comes fitted with all of the features available to the range and with no optional extras.
Initial impressions are that MG ZS Pro drive quality is excellent with low levels of tyre roar and wind noise, and good damping on a variety of surfaces. The characteristics blend well with the 1.5l turbo petrol four-cylinder with variable vane turbocharging and valve timing tech. Output is 125kW and 275Nm and is mated exclusively to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with simulated steps.
The engine with driving modes is refined and noticeably tractable at lower revs. It also averaged fuel consumption of 7.3l/100km at the media launch, and pairs well with the transmission that belies it’s a CVT in operation at low to medium speeds. But hit the Sport mode and plant the throttle and the typical “rubber band” power delivery is evidenced.
The new Chinese crossover is also nimble and confidence inspiring, too. It feels light on its feet, and hunkered down to be hustled fast and safely through a series of bends.
Standard driver assistance and safety tech includes adaptive cruise control, forward collision control, blindspot assistance, parking camera, tyre pressure monitor and six airbags. The Comfort specification gets four airbags.
Both models are sold with a seven-year/200,000km warranty and five-year/60,000km service plan.
Prices
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Comfort — R397,600
MG ZS Pro 1.5T Luxury — R431,500
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